Category: Daily Guide Network

Twenty-one (21) foreign nationals, all believed to be from Burkina Faso, have been arrested by the Amansie West District Security Council (DISEC) for engaging in illegal mining on river bodies at Esaase Bontefufuo in the Ashanti Region.

The suspects were apprehended in the early hours of Wednesday, October 22, 2025, during a special intelligence-led operation conducted by the District Police Command and the Formed Police Unit (FPU) under the command of ASP Solomon Adusei Berko.

Confirming the incident, ASP Berko said the operation followed credible intelligence about the activities of foreign nationals involved in galamsey operations that were causing massive environmental degradation in the area.

‘We moved in swiftly and arrested twenty-one Burkinabes who were actively mining on river bodies. Several tools and mining equipment were retrieved from the scene,’ ASP Berko stated.

He described the extent of destruction as alarming, noting that the illegal activities had led to the contamination of major water sources, the destruction of farmlands, and the depletion of vegetation cover in the community.

ASP Berko warned that the police would not relent in their efforts to clamp down on illegal mining operations, and assured residents of sustained security patrols in the area.

The District Chief Executive for Amansie West and Chairman of DISEC, Prince Manu Morris, lauded the swift response of the security forces and reiterated the Assembly’s determination to stamp out illegal mining in the district.

‘Illegal mining continues to destroy our environment and threaten the survival of our communities. Whether Ghanaian or foreign, anyone found engaging in such activities will face the full rigours of the law,’ he cautioned.

Mr. Morris also revealed that DISEC will intensify surveillance in collaboration with the Ghana Police Service, National Intelligence Bureau (NIB), and the Ghana Immigration Service to prevent further incursions by illegal miners.

He further appealed to residents to assist security agencies by promptly reporting suspicious activities, to help protect the district’s natural resources.

Cherise Asher Ayisi, Ghana’s representative for the Miss Earth 2025 pageant, has received her first gold medal after earning the top position during the Darling of the Press session of the competition.

She was keenly followed by Miss Belize, who occupied the second position, earning a silver medal, while Miss Australia earned bronze at the end of the segment.

Following Cherise’s win, many Ghanaians have taken to social media to commend her for stealing the show with her elegance and eloquence.

Cherise is competing with over 70 contestants for the Miss Earth title. The pageant, which advocates for environmental awareness, conservation, and social responsibility, will take place on November 5, 2025, at the Okada Manila in Parañaque, Metro Manila, Philippines.

This year’s event, themed ‘Silver Linings,’ marks the 25th edition as well as silver anniversary of the Miss Earth pageant.

Discussion of the event will be centred on issues and policies concerning the environment. The delegates will be showcasing unique skills and abilities as well as their fashion sense.

There will be the anticipated National Costume display to celebrate cultural heritage, and interacting with the online community.

The pageant features contestants from various countries, including new debutants like Uzbekistan. Some contestants have already begun their journey, participating in activities like a symbolic tree planting ceremony and a presentation of delegates in Filipiniana-inspired ensembles.

Ghanaian singer and songwriter, Black Sherif, has disclosed that rapper Kwesi Arthur stands as an inspiration to his music craft.

Black Sherif made this revelation on X after a fan named Cyrus asked the ‘First and Second Sermon’ hitmaker which acts inspire him in the music industry.

The post read, ‘@um_cyrus, @blacksherif_ which musician inspires you the most.’ Black Sherif, in response, wrote, ‘Kwesi Arthur.’

Black Sherif, on several occasions, has publicly expressed admiration and love for Kwesi Arthur, stating, ‘I love Kwesi Arthur so much, I wish he knew’. This gesture has sparked mixed reactions from fans, with some appreciating Black Sherif’s sentiment and others wondering about his motives.

Rumours has it that following Black Sherif’s breakthrough in the music scene, he has overshadowed Kwesi Arthur. The two are said to have collaborated on music projects, including a song that was leaked but never officially released due to differences in their opinions about the track’s quality.

News about the death of former First Lady, Nana Konadu Agyeman Rawlings, wife of late former President Flt. Jerry John Rawlings, made the rounds yesterday morning as a rumour.

Many were hesitant in spreading the rumour of the former First Lady’s passing as they were not trusting social media when it comes to such matters.

But when they eventually received confirmation, it spread like wildfire in a scorched forest.

Information gathered so far indicates that she passed on at the Greater Accra Regional Hospital at Ridge, aged 76.

She joins her husband who died on November 12, 2020, 20 days away from the anniversary of his transition.

She carved an image of a strong woman during the revolution led by her husband and when he metamorphosed into a civilian president.

In the course of her husband’s new role as leader of a military junta, she made herself relevant through assortment of feminine empowerment engagements such as the 31st December Women’s Movement et al.

Political History

Nana Konadu Agyeman Rawlings was born on November 17, 1948 and became the First Lady from June 4, 1979 to September 24, 1979 and from December 31, 1981 to January 7, 2001.

Her political ambition drove her to become the first female to vie for the position of President in 2016, when she formed a political party – the National Democratic Party (NDP). She won 0.16% of the votes cast in the 2020 general election.

She had fallen out with the political party her husband founded, the NDC, not enthused with the management of the party when her husband took leave of its activities.

Her book, ‘It Takes A Woman,’ published in 2018, added to her growing political stature in the affairs of politics in Ghana.

She was elected First Vice Chairperson of the NDC in 2009 and later in 2011.

Her attempt at becoming the flagbearer of the NDC in 2012 against Prof. JEA Mills failed.

Her no-love-lost relationship with the NDC until she took her last breath is household knowledge in the political space of the country.

‘My desire is to see the emancipation of women at every level of development to enable them to contribute and benefit from the socio-economic and political progress of the country.Women’s vital role of promoting peace in the family, the country and the world at large must be acknowledged. And to do this, they must be empowered politically to equip them adequately for the challenges of critically identifying and assessing solutions for the betterment of society,’ a release from her during her heydays sums up the goal of the 31st December Women’s Movement of which she was president.

Her movement is credited with setting up more than 870 pre-schools in Ghana, besides giving impetus to early child development.

Her work in women’s development and empowerment, she is reported to have said, would not end even with the exit of her husband from the presidency.

Her role in the adoption of an ‘Intestate Succession Law,’ which is applicable to the survivors of anyone dying without a will, is widely acknowledged in the country.

Biography

She was born in Cape Coast, Central Region of Ghana to J. O. T. Agyeman and his wife, having attended the prestigious Ghana International School from where she proceeded to Achimota School where as fate would have it, she met her future spouse.

At the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, she studied Art and Textiles.

She is credited with designing the NDC logo of an eagle sitting on an umbrella.

The political activism in her was manifest when she became a student leader of her hall of residence, Africa Hall, at the university.

She pursued various courses after her university education, one of them being a diploma course in Interior Design at the London College of Arts, the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration and the John Hopkins University in the US.

Nana Konadu married the Ghana Air Force officer Jerry John Rawlings in 1977, a union which was blessed with their first child, Zanetor in 1978. She also bore Yaa Asantewaa, Amina and Kimathi.

She would be remembered by her unique headgear style and the signature beret of the 31st December Women’s Movement.

Tributes Pour In

Several high-profile figures have expressed condolences to the family of the late Nana Konadu Agyeman Rawlings following her passing.

President John Mahama, following the departure of Nana Konadu, paid a solemn tribute before the swearing-in ceremony of 37 newly appointed High Court judges at the Jubilee House yesterday.

The President stated, ‘This afternoon, I received a delegation of the children of our late mother, Nana Konadu Agyeman Rawlings, to inform me about her untimely and unfortunate passing. As we rise and pay a moment of silence to her memory, may the Almighty God grant her a peaceful rest in His bosom. Thank you. Amen.’

Swiss Ambassador to Ghana, Simone Giger, paid tribute on social media, saying, ‘Deeply saddened by the passing of former First Lady Nana Konadu Agyeman Rawlings. A woman I’ve admired for her determination and dedication to women’s rights. A trailblazer, an inspiration, and a person I’ve been honoured to call a friend. My thoughts are with her family.’

THE PUBLIC Relations Department of the Ghana Police Service led by Director Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Grace Ansah-Akrofi paid a courtesy visit to management of the Daily Guide Network, operators of the Daily Guide newspaper, Guide Radio 91.5 and DGN television.

ACP Ansah-Akrofi, in her remarks, acknowledged the role of the Daily Guide newspaper in publishing stories about the Ghana Police and craved for a sustained cooperation between the internal security organisation and the Daily Guide Network.

She observed that there are people who erroneously think the Police Service belongs to personnel of the Service only and not the citizens whose security the organisation is mandated to ensure.

It is important to protect public confidence in the Police Service, as not doing so can impact negatively on security in the country, she said, adding that all should support the internal security organisation to serve citizens.

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Daily Guide Network, Kwame Blay, on his part, welcomed the police entourage as he appreciated the words of commendation for the support his outfit is rendering the police.

He called on the Police Service Public Relations Directorate to share contents to the Daily Guide Network’s television to educate the public on security issues.

‘I see what the police show on their Police TV, which is very interesting. We have a relationship through which you would share with us the Police Television contents so we can share with our wider audience,’ he said.

Chief News Editor, Alhaji A.R. Gomda, on his part, called on the Police Service to organise seminars so reporters can specialise on security reporting.

‘There are a lot of journalists who report on matters relating to the Police but lack adequate knowledge of the security service. I suggest that you organise periodic training programmes for such journalists to improve upon their knowledge of the operations of the Service,’ he said.

He also commended the police for decentralising information dissemination, which has facilitated sourcing of news by the media.

Editor of the Daily Guide newspaper, Jamila Akweley Okertchiri, also informed the police public relations team of the newly introduced ‘Crime Stoppers Page’ dedicated to reporting on crime related stories in the weekend newspaper.

She urged the team to contribute some safety tips to be featured on the page to better inform readers.

Guide Radio and DGN presenter, Abena Soreno Yankyera, lamented the increasing cases of misinformation on the part of journalists due to lack of prompt response by the Police Service.

She urged the Service to be prompt in their news briefings on crime-related occurrences in the country to reduce misinformation.

Deputy Minister of Finance, Thomas Nyarko Ampem, has called on stakeholders in the procurement sector to fully adopt the Public Electronic Procurement System (GHANEPS) in order to help uphold fiscal discipline.

Speaking at the 11th Public Procurement forum in Accra yesterday, the Deputy Minister said the continued reform of Ghana’s procurement system is important to ensuring effective public procurement processes.

He indicated that next year would mark three decades since the country first embarked on comprehensive public procurement reforms noting that the enactment of the Public Procurement Act 2003 (Act 663) and subsequent amendments, including those in 2016 and 2025, laid the legal foundation for a transparent, fair, and accountable procurement system.

‘These reforms are not merely legislative changes, they represent a fundamental re-engineering of processes, anchored in digital transformation, through the Ghana Electronic Procurement System (GHANEPS).’

He also stated that public procurement is not only meant for administrative purposes but a strategic tool that shapes government spending and drives the country’s economic growth.

According to the Minister, Public procurement accounts for between 13 to 20 percent of Ghana’s GDP, with over 40 percent of the country’s total domestic revenue for 2025 expected to pass through the procurement system.

That, he explained, highlights the importance of ensuring that procurement processes are conducted with the highest standards of transparency and accountability.

He further expressed the government commitment to integrating procurement systems and ensuring compliance with established frameworks to prevent leakages and ensure that every cedi spent serves its intended public purpose.

Chief Executive Officer of the Public Procurement Authority (PPA), Frank Mantey, for his part said electronic procurement is useful in addressing corruption and improving efficiency in public procurement.

He cited the example of South Korea where e-procurement has over the years supported the growth of Small Medium enterprises (SMEs)

The PPA boss also added that ‘Incorporating e-procurement into Ghana’s procurement landscape will allow us to keep pace with global trends and reap the benefits of digital transformation.’

Storytelling has always been at the heart of African culture. Long before written records, African communities relied on oral traditions to pass down knowledge, values, and history from one generation to the next.

These stories, often told by griots, elders, and family members, served as living archives that preserved the rich history of the continent.

African storytelling is not merely a form of entertainment; it is a powerful tool for education, identity formation, and resistance against cultural erasure.

A Living History: The Role of Oral Traditions

African societies have historically depended on oral traditions to document their histories. Unlike Western historiography, which largely relies on written records, African storytelling employs spoken word, music, and performance to communicate historical events. Griots, also known as jeli or praise singers in West Africa, are the custodians of history, preserving genealogies, battles, and the rise and fall of empires through their narratives. Their accounts ensure that vital information about rulers, wars, migrations, and cultural changes is not lost over time.

These oral narratives have helped preserve the histories of great African civilizations such as the Mali Empire, the Kingdom of Benin, and the Zulu nation. Epic tales like the Sundiata Keita legend, which recounts the rise of the Mali Empire, continue to provide insights into Africa’s medieval past.

Storytelling as a Tool for Cultural Identity

African storytelling plays a fundamental role in shaping communal and individual identities. Folktales, proverbs, and myths instill societal values and teach moral lessons that guide behavior. For instance, Anansi the Spider, a trickster figure in Ghanaian folklore, teaches the value of intelligence and wit over brute strength. Similarly, proverbs such as ‘Until the lion learns to write, every story will glorify the hunter’ emphasise the importance of Africans telling their own stories rather than allowing outsiders to dictate their narratives.

Additionally, storytelling helps reinforce a sense of belonging by connecting people to their ancestry. Through oral traditions, younger generations learn about their lineage, heroes, and struggles, fostering pride in their heritage. This is especially important in post-colonial Africa, where many nations have sought to reclaim their histories from colonial distortions.

Resistance and Resilience Through Storytelling

During periods of colonial rule and enslavement, African storytelling became a form of resistance. Enslaved Africans in the Americas carried their oral traditions with them, using storytelling as a means of preserving their cultural identities in hostile environments. They adapted their tales, embedding messages of hope, resilience, and survival. For example, the Br’er Rabbit stories in African American folklore have their origins in West African trickster tales, where animals use cunning to outwit oppressors.

Moreover, African freedom fighters and revolutionaries used storytelling to inspire movements against colonial rule. Figures like Nelson Mandela and Amílcar Cabral understood the power of stories in uniting people against oppression. By recounting the triumphs of past African leaders and warriors, they motivated their people to fight for independence and self-determination.

The Evolution of African Storytelling in the Modern Era

While oral traditions remain significant, modern African storytelling has evolved to include literature, film, and digital media. African authors like Chinua Achebe, Ngugi wa Thiong’o, and Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie have used storytelling to challenge misconceptions about Africa and present authentic narratives. Their works bridge the gap between oral traditions and written history, ensuring that African voices remain prominent in global discourse.

Furthermore, digital platforms have given new life to African storytelling. Podcasts, social media, and virtual griots have expanded the reach of traditional narratives, making them accessible to a global audience. This has allowed African storytelling to continue thriving in contemporary society while maintaining its historical significance.

Conclusion

African storytelling is more than just a means of passing time; it is an essential tool for preserving history, shaping cultural identity, and resisting erasure. Whether through the spoken word of a griot, the written works of modern authors, or digital storytelling, Africa’s rich oral traditions remain a testament to the resilience and wisdom of its people. As long as stories are told, Africa’s history will live on, ensuring that the past continues to inform and inspire future generations.

Celebrated musician, King Ayisoba, has called on the government to award him a diplomatic passport, citing his long-standing efforts to promote Ghanaian traditional music abroad.

His request comes weeks after five Ghanaian creatives-travel vlogger, Wode Maya, reggae artiste, Rocky Dawuni, broadcaster, Anita Erskine, visual artist, Ibrahim Mahama, and entrepreneur, Dentaa Amoateng-were honoured with diplomatic passports for their contributions to promoting the country internationally.

In an interview with broadcaster Kafui Dey, King Ayisoba praised the recipients, singling out Grammy-nominated reggae artiste Rocky Dawuni for his hard work and global recognition. ‘For me, I can’t say those who have received it don’t deserve it. Someone like Rocky Dawuni has really worked hard, it’s not easy to earn a Grammy nomination. I just hope they also consider me because, truthfully, when it comes to Ghanaian music traditions, I’m one of those who’ve carried it,’ he said.

The diplomatic passports were presented by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, during the launch of the Diaspora Summit 2025 on September 17, 2025.

The event was jointly organised by the Office of the President, Diaspora Affairs, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

According to the ministry, the five recipients were selected for their proven track record in promoting Ghanaian and African culture internationally.

A violent confrontation erupted in the Atwima Nwabiagya North District of the Ashanti Region on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, when a mob set ablaze a vehicle allegedly used by a group of thieves who had stolen goats and sheep at Esaso. Two suspects were arrested in connection with the incident.

According to eyewitnesses, the suspects, who were travelling in a Pregio commercial bus, reportedly stole six goats and six sheep from residents of Esaso. Their attempt to escape was foiled after residents pursued them through nearby communities.

Speaking to DAILY GUIDE, the Assembly Member for Maabang Electoral Area, Mr. Atta Akwasi, said he received a distress call from a resident informing him of the theft. He immediately contacted residents in Barekuma, Aninkroma, and Kumi to block all possible escape routes.

‘The residents stationed themselves at vantage points, and when the suspects got to Maabang and realised people were waiting for them, they abandoned the vehicle and fled into the bush,’ he narrated. ‘Two of them were later caught after a hot chase.’

He added that but for the timely intervention of the Adankwame Police, the suspects would have been lynched by the angry mob. However, the vehicle they were using was burnt beyond recognition.

Reports indicate that one of the suspects managed to flee the scene but was later arrested by police. The stolen animals were also retrieved and are currently in the custody of the Adankwame Police, who have launched an investigation into the matter.

Mr. Atta lamented the increasing cases of livestock theft in Maabang, Esaso, and surrounding communities, describing the incident as a result of the community’s growing frustration.

‘We often wake up to find out that residents’ livestock have been stolen, and many reports have been made to the police without results,’ he stated. ‘Although I do not condone the burning of the vehicle, the residents’ actions were driven by anger over the rampant theft.’

He, however, commended the Adankwame Police for their swift response and the Maabang Unit Committee members for their role in apprehending the suspects.

As of press time, the identities of the suspects had not been released. Police investigations are ongoing.

The 9th Ghana Beauty Awards (GBA) takes place tomorrow, Friday, October 24, 2025, at the Labadi Beach Hotel, celebrating excellence, innovation, and creativity in Ghana’s beauty, fashion, and wellness industry.

Under the theme, ‘THRIVE’, the awards will honour pioneers, professionals, and emerging brands driving growth and raising standards in the sector.

Organised by Makeup Ghana, GBA is the country’s premier platform for recognising outstanding talent, educators, institutions, and businesses shaping the industry’s future.

Awards will be presented across categories including makeup artistry, skincare, hair, fashion, education, manufacturing, retailing, and innovation. The night will also feature musical, comedy, and creative performances, alongside Lifetime Achievement and Honorary Awards for iconic industry figures.

The 2025 edition is powered by Labadi Beach Hotel, Feel Naturals, Marie Noelle Spa and Salon, Unique Floral, Windi Sun Energy, Agri-Impact, and Globe Away, with top winners set to enjoy prizes including an all-expense-paid trip to Barbados and the 2026 GRAMMYs, reflecting the event’s growing international recognition.

Guests are encouraged to dress to THRIVE in green and earthy tones, embracing evening glam and traditional elegance for a spectacular red-carpet night.