Category: Daily Guide Network

The family of the late Apostle Kwadwo Safo Kantanka has issued a strong disclaimer, urging the public to ignore reports claiming that 30th and 31st July 2026 are the funeral dates for the renowned industrialist.

In a statement signed by Family Secretary Dr. Philip Siaw Kissi, the Aduana (Kotoko) Royal Family stressed that the only official date for the final burial rites remains Thursday, 25th June 2026.

‘The Aduana (Kotoko) Royal Family hereby wishes to formally inform the general public that the funeral dates published in certain newspapers and media platforms as 30th–31st July 2026 in respect of the final burial rites of Apostle Dr. Kwadwo Safo Kantanka should be disregarded,’ the statement read.

The family reiterated that the correct date was duly announced during their press conference and called on the public to rely solely on official communications from the Aduana (Kotoko) Royal Family regarding burial arrangements.

‘The general public is therefore advised to rely solely on official communications issued by the Aduana (Kotoko) Royal Family regarding all matters relating to the burial arrangements,’ Dr. Kissi said.

ShEquity Partners, in partnership with the Agency for Business and Economic Development (AWE) and Greentec Capital Africa Foundation, has selected 10 Ghanaian gender-smart and climate-focused small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) under its Gender-Smart Climate Technical Assistance Facility aimed at expanding access to climate finance and carbon market opportunities.

The initiative seeks to promote inclusive climate innovation while strengthening the capacity of women-led and gender-smart businesses to benefit from Ghana’s growing carbon market ecosystem and global climate finance mechanisms.

The announcement follows an intensive support programme involving 30 gender-smart climate-focused SMEs from across Ghana. Participating businesses underwent hands-on training focused on investment readiness and access to carbon markets.

Following a rigorous assessment process, the number was narrowed to 15 companies, which subsequently received expert coaching to develop Carbon Opportunity Maps.

The shortlisted businesses also participated in masterclasses on gender inclusion, governance, growth strategy, job creation, strategic communications and market positioning.

From the 15 companies, 10 high-potential SMEs were selected based on their readiness to take advantage of opportunities emerging under Article 6 of the Paris Agreement and Ghana’s evolving carbon market framework.

In the next phase of the programme, the selected businesses will receive one-on-one investor and communications coaching and will be paired with carbon certification experts to prepare them for market participation.

The final stage will involve live pitches before an independent jury, after which two winning businesses will be selected to receive support for the development of full Project Design Documents (PDDs) as well as grants of 25,000 dollars each to advance the next phase of the carbon certification process.

Founder and Chief Executive Officer of ShEquity Partners, Pauline Koelbl, said women-led and gender-smart SMEs were central to shaping Africa’s climate future.

‘Through this Technical Assistance Facility, we are strengthening the investment and carbon market readiness of these businesses and positioning them to access emerging opportunities in climate finance, including carbon markets,’ she said.

She noted that the selected SMEs reflected the innovation, resilience and growth potential within Ghana’s entrepreneurial ecosystem and stressed the need for greater investment in women-led enterprises driving climate resilience and green growth.

Advisor at AWE Ghana, Christina Pfandl, said supporting women-led and gender-smart SMEs to participate in climate finance mechanisms was essential to building a resilient and inclusive green economy.

She explained that the initiative would help participating businesses leverage the country’s Carbon Market Framework, aligned with Article 6 of the Paris Agreement, to unlock additional revenue streams and scale their impact.

The 10 finalist SMEs operate across sectors including circular economy, renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, sustainable mobility and nature-based solutions.

They are Dyson Energy, Eco-nexus, Enterprise Coast Ghana, Gateway Feeds, GreenEarth Agro, Legendary Foods, Mayiya Investments, Royal Baobab Farms, Sustainable Energy Technologies Limited and YomYom.

A joint team of soldiers operating with the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) has arrested a notorious illegal mining, or galamsey, gang leader in a targeted security operation.

The suspect, described as a key figure behind repeated attacks on taskforce operatives at illegal mining sites, was apprehended during a coordinated sweep.

During the operation, officers recovered an unlicensed pump-action shotgun and other weapons believed to have been used in violent confrontations with anti-galamsey personnel.

The notorious leader is among the four suspects arrested by NAIMOS identified as Alpha Musa, 28, Rahaman Rojer, 29, Laji Bengali, 25, and Mohammed Agana, 25, for allegedly providing security for the illegal mining operation while actively participating in the activities.

Backed by soldiers, the team recovered two pump-action shotguns, ammunition, mobile phones and talismans, machetes, a water pump, and excavator parts from the galamsey operation that pollutes rivers and forests.

The suspects, who allegedly guarded the site and resisted arrest, have been handed over to Esiama police. The arrests follow weeks of patrols in the hotspot area amid armed pushback from illegal miners.

The Western Regional Police Command is hunting for Sule Anas, an Arabic teacher accused of sodomizing two minors at Fijai Zongo Central near Sekondi.

Anas, who was employed by leaders of the Fijai Zongo Central community to teach children Arabic on weekends, fled after a complaint was lodged at the Western Regional Police Command.

According to police investigations, the suspect lured the victims into a storeroom inside the mosque under the pretext of performing spiritual cleansing. He then allegedly sodomized and defiled the minors.

He has since been declared wanted for defilement and unnatural carnal knowledge of two minors.

A warrant for his arrest was issued on Wednesday, 20th May 2026, by the Gender Court in Sekondi. Anas is described as fair in complexion and about 5 feet 7 inches tall. Police say he may be hiding in Côte d’Ivoire or Togo.

The Command is urging anyone with credible information on his whereabouts to contact the Western Regional Domestic Violence and Victim Support Unit, report to the nearest police station, or call 191 or 112 to aid his arrest.

Professionals from Anlo Afiadenyigba in the Volta Region have inaugurated the Team of Facilitators, Commissions and Commissioners of The Action Room at a ceremony held on May 16, 2026, at Keta Municipality of the Volta Region.

The event brought together professionals from sectors including education, health, tourism, engineering, agriculture, business and public service, under the theme: ‘Mobilising professionals for the sustainable development of Anlo Afiadenyigba.’

The initiative is led by a seven-member facilitation team comprising Prof. Edem Kwasi Bakah, Mr. Jordan Dodoo, Mr. Hope Dekorn, Ms. Faith Xoese Kuedofia, Mr. Francis Yram Kaledzi, Mr. Evans Kwame Yevu-Agbi and Mama Diawor Zorƒuaxanyi II.

Addressing participants at the ceremony, Team Lead of The Action Room, Prof. Edem Kwasi Bakah, underscored the importance of unity and collective responsibility in driving development within the community.

‘As professionals both at home and abroad, we need to contribute our quota for the sustainable development of the community. This will ensure a lasting legacy beyond our personal accomplishments,’ he stated.

Fifteen commissions were inaugurated during the ceremony to oversee various development areas including resource mobilisation, education, health, infrastructure, sanitation, tourism, youth empowerment, agriculture, economic development, and security and conflict resolution.

Speaking on the theme of the launch, Agri-business Consultant and Commissioner for Resource Mobilisation of The Action Room, Mr. Chris Foli, stressed the need for collective support from indigenes to ensure the success of the initiative.

He noted that the development of the town depended on the contribution of all members of the community, and appealed for cooperation in securing lands for development projects.

In his address, the Dufia of Anlo Afiadenyigba, Apostle Togbi Kadzahlo Drabese IV, expressed appreciation to the initiators of The Action Room and announced the full support of the traditional leadership for the initiative.

‘Unity in our town is vital to ensure our collective growth,’ he said.

He further encouraged members of the facilitation team and commissioners to work with dedication and courage to achieve the objectives of the initiative.

The Team of Facilitators were sworn into office by Apostle Togbi Kadzahlo Drabese IV, while Rev. Elias Weldeck Kafui Denoo administered the oath of office to the Commissioners and Deputy Commissioners.

The Action Room is a development-focused initiative made up of natives and affiliates of Anlo Afiadenyigba aimed at mobilising expertise, resources and networks to support the holistic development of the community.

Police have arrested a suspect following a violent attack at an illegal mining site near Sefwi Asawinso ‘A’ that left one person dead and five others injured.

Head of Public Affairs, Western North Regional Police Command, Inusah Adama, in a press statement, said the service received reports at about 3:00 p.m. on Monday, May 18, that a group had attacked a mining site within the Afao Hills Forest Reserve.

‘A police team led by the District Commander and Divisional Crime Officer responded and proceeded to the Anhwiaso Community Hospital, where victims were receiving treatment,’ statement read.

Preliminary investigations indicate that Nana Kwesi Ayim III, Odikro of Sefwi Asawinso ‘A’, and some community youth went to the area after receiving a tip-off that illegal mining was ongoing in the forest reserve.

Police say they encountered people actively engaged in illegal mining. A misunderstanding reportedly broke out, after which a group of armed men allegedly attacked Nana Kwesi Ayim III and his team with firearms and cutlasses.

Five people sustained gunshot and cutlass wounds. One victim, 38-year-old Kwame Ayisi, was pronounced dead on arrival at the Anhwiaso Community Hospital. His body has been deposited at the hospital’s morgue for preservation and autopsy. The injured are responding to treatment.

Police have arrested Isaac Badu, alias ‘Obede,’ whom they describe as the kingpin who planned and executed the attack. He is in custody assisting with investigations. Efforts are underway to identify and arrest other suspects.

The Western North Regional Police Command cautioned the public against resorting to violence to resolve disputes, and urged anyone with information to contact the Police Service.

It also assured that the situation is under control and that adequate security measures have been deployed to maintain law and order in the affected communities.

Arsenal F.C. have been crowned Premier League champions for the first time in 22 years after rivals Manchester City F.C. dropped points in a 1-1 draw against AFC Bournemouth on Tuesday night.

The result confirmed Arsenal as champions and marked a historic achievement for manager Mikel Arteta, who has transformed the North London club into one of Europe’s strongest sides since taking charge in 2019.

It is Arsenal’s first league title since the famous ‘Invincibles’ campaign under legendary former manager Arsène Wenger during the 2003-04 season.

After years of rebuilding, Arteta’s side finally delivered on their promise with a consistent and dominant campaign that saw them outperform defending champions Manchester City and the rest of the league.

Led by captain Martin Ødegaard and powered by key players across the squad, Arsenal combined attacking flair with defensive solidity throughout the season to end their long wait for domestic glory.

The title triumph sparked celebrations across North London, with thousands of supporters gathering outside the Emirates Stadium to celebrate the club’s return to the top of English football.

Arteta praised his players, staff and supporters for believing in the long-term project that has now produced silverware.

‘This is a very special moment for everyone connected to the club,’ Arteta said after the title was confirmed. ‘The players have shown incredible character, consistency and belief all season.’

Arsenal’s success has been widely viewed as the reward for a carefully planned rebuilding process led by Arteta and the club’s recruitment team over the past several years.

Attention will now shift to Europe as Arsenal prepare for the UEFA Champions League final against Paris Saint-Germain F.C. later this month, with the Gunners aiming to complete a memorable double-winning season.

The IGP’s Cyber Vetting and Enforcement Team (CVET) has arrested suspect Mahama Aminat, also known as Akosua Serwaa Minat, for offensive conduct and issuing threats against the President of the Republic, His Excellency John Dramani Mahama, in videos circulated on social media.

The suspect was captured in several TikTok videos making insulting remarks about the President, threatening his life, and inciting others to harm both the President and his wife.

Following the circulation of the videos, a joint operation involving CVET and the Surveillance Unit of the National Operations Department arrested the suspect on 20th May 2026 at Sekyere Zongo in the Sekyere Kumawu District of the Ashanti Region.

The suspect is currently in police custody and will be put before the court.

The Governor of the Bank of Ghana, Johnson Pandit Asiamah, has defended the decision by the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) to maintain the policy rate at 14 percent, insisting that lingering geopolitical tensions in the Middle East continue to pose serious risks to Ghana’s inflation outlook and economic stability.

Responding to questions from journalists during the 130th MPC press briefing in Accra yesterday, Dr. Asiamah described the ongoing Middle East conflict as the ‘elephant in the room’ influencing the central bank’s cautious policy stance.

According to him, although current economic indicators suggest there is room for further monetary easing, the MPC decided to pause and monitor developments because of uncertainties surrounding the global crisis.

‘The committee evaluated other forms of risks. The elephant in the room here is the Middle East crisis,’ the Governor stated. ‘Up to this time, one is not sure whether it is temporary or whether it is going to be long-lasting. If we assume that it will be a longer-lasting one, then you can imagine the impact on inflation expectations and the so-called second-round effects,’ he added.

Members of the MPC

Dr. Asiamah explained that while real interest rate trends indicated possible space for further rate cuts, the MPC considered both domestic improvements and external shocks before arriving at its decision. ‘That is why, in the wisdom of the committee, it was decided to pause and evaluate all incoming data so that at the next MPC round, the committee would take an appropriate decision,’ he added.

The Governor also responded to concerns about the slow reduction in commercial bank lending rates despite falling benchmark interest rates.He explained that the current low-interest-rate regime remained relatively new to banks, forcing them to gradually adjust their portfolios and lending strategies.

‘When interest rates are falling, it may take a while. You don’t just rush into giving loans. There has to be adequate bankable projects and you don’t compromise your credit appraisal standards,’ he said.

According to him, banks were acting cautiously to avoid excessive credit risks, but indicated that lending rates would eventually adjust downward once the low-interest-rate environment is sustained.

Dr Asiamah further justified the MPC’s additional policy measure to revise the dynamic cash reserve ratio to a uniform 20 percent reserve requirement in domestic currency, effective June 4, 2026.

He explained that the decision followed a review of earlier liquidity management measures introduced about a year ago. ‘In the wisdom of the committee, we think this will go a long way to complement our open market operations,’ he noted.

The Governor disclosed that the central bank would hold meetings with Chief Executive Officers of commercial banks next week to explain the implications of the new policy measures. On the recent oversubscription of Treasury bill auctions, Dr. Asiamah declined to directly comment on government borrowing strategies, saying such matters were best addressed by the Ministry of Finance.

‘You know it’s a market; it’s an auction. The banks and treasuries make those decisions based on market conditions and what they forecast going forward.’

Addressing concerns about the depreciation of the cedi, the Governor stressed that Ghana operates a managed floating exchange rate regime and not a fixed exchange rate system.

‘The cedi is expected to move. It can depreciate or appreciate. Our concern is to avoid excessive volatility,’ he said.

MPC meeting in session

Dr. Asiamah attributed recent depreciation pressures mainly to increased foreign exchange demand arising from higher crude oil prices and dividend repatriation by multinational companies during the April-May reporting season.

‘The same volume of crude oil is costing about twice more by way of foreign exchange,’ he explained. Despite the pressures, the Governor assured the public that the central bank had adequate foreign exchange reserves to maintain stability in the market.

‘The good part of it all is that we have the buffers. We are building them on a daily basis,’ he stressed. He disclosed that Ghana’s Net International Reserves had increased from US$10.9 billion in April to US$12.43 billion currently.

‘We should be able to do what we have to do. What we will ensure is that we won’t see a return to the kind of volatility we saw in previous years,’ he assured.

Touching on credit distribution, Dr. Asiamah said commerce continued to receive the largest share of bank credit, but indicated that all sectors of the economy would benefit if the ongoing growth in private sector lending is sustained.

He revealed that the central bank was also advancing plans for a digital credit framework that would allow individuals and businesses to access small loans through mobile phones under a regulated system.

‘So very soon, no matter which sector you are involved in, you can just raise a loan on your mobile phone,’ he disclosed, adding that the system would be properly supervised to avoid abuse.

The Governor also announced that Ghana could witness the launch of its first non-interest banking institution before the end of the year. According to him, the regulatory framework for non-interest banking was being carefully developed to meet international best practices. ‘That is something dear to my heart,’ he stated.

On the banking sector’s non-performing loans (NPLs), Dr. Asiamah said the central bank had already issued directives to commercial banks to reduce bad loans by the end of 2026.

He revealed that although the gross NPL ratio stood at 18 percent, the net figure after provisions was around eight per cent. ‘We don’t just erase fully provisioned loans because of moral hazard,’ he explained, urging banks to continue pursuing loan defaulters to recover outstanding debts.

Regarding disruptions to Ghana’s gold exports due to the Middle East crisis, the Governor disclosed that temporary challenges affecting shipments to the United Arab Emirates had been resolved through alternative export arrangements. ‘The Gold Board has been able to find a way around it,’ he said. ‘Shipments are ongoing,’ he added.

Enterprise Properties Limited (EPL), a corporate real estate company, has officially launched its 15th anniversary celebrations and announced plans to expand its services to provide enhanced support for investors in the nation’s property market in response to the evolving demands of the real estate sector.

Speaking at the launch held at the company’s head office in Accra on Monday, the Managing Director of Enterprise Properties, Kwadwo Nini Owusu, said the company had built a solid reputation over the years through the delivery of exceptional facility and property management services, particularly to subsidiaries of Enterprise Group.

‘There are a number of companies providing facility management services, but we have been around for 15 solid years and have delivered exceptional services. We believe we now have what it takes to provide services to a wider market. Whether it is facilities management, property management, leasing, project management, fit-outs or construction supervision, we are the right partners to work with,’ he said.

Mr. Owusu noted that the real estate sector was entering one of its most favourable periods in recent years, driven by falling inflation, a recovering cedi and policy rate cuts by the Bank of Ghana.

EPL, which was established as part of a strategic initiative by Enterprise Group PLC, offers services including facilities management, project management, property management, brokerage, research and advisory services.

According to him, the improving macroeconomic environment is creating opportunities for developers, investors, homebuyers and tenants, particularly within the country’s dollar-denominated real estate market.

‘Some years ago, the cedi traded at around GHS15 to the dollar, making property acquisition and rental very expensive. But with the exchange rate improving to around GHS10.5 to GHS11, and interest rates also declining, conditions are becoming more conducive for real estate activity,’ he stated.

Mr. Owusu said industry projections indicate that Ghana’s real estate market could record strong returns in 2026, with commercial properties expected to generate annual yields of between 8 and 15 percent, while residential rental yields could range between 7 and 12 percent.

He also highlighted changing consumer preferences as a major factor shaping the future of the industry, citing increasing demand for luxury apartments, eco-friendly buildings, smart homes and mixed-use developments that combine residential, commercial and recreational spaces.

He added that diaspora investment continues to play a significant role in supporting the sector, as many Ghanaians abroad view real estate as a reliable hedge against inflation and currency volatility.

Despite the opportunities, Mr. Owusu acknowledged that the industry still faces challenges, including rising construction and financing costs, infrastructure deficits, regulatory complexities, land title issues and currency volatility.

On affordable housing, he said Enterprise Properties is currently focused on the high-end market, including luxury apartments, office blocks and high-rise developments, although the company may consider venturing into the affordable housing segment in future.

The Chief Executive Officer of the Real Estate Agency Council (REAC). Emmanuel Jeffery, commended Enterprise Properties for its professionalism and compliance with the Real Estate Agency Act, 2020 (Act 1047).

He praised the company’s full registration and adherence to regulatory requirements, describing it as a demonstration of ethical practice and respect for the rule of law.

Also present at the launch were the Board Chair and members of the board of Enterprise Properties, staff of Enterprise Group and its subsidiaries, tenants, clients and business partners.