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Chef Failatu Abdul-Razak, who recently attempted to set a new Guinness World Record for the longest individual cooking marathon, has urged Ghanaians to patronize local tourist centres to help boost the country’s tourism industry.

She said locals should lead by example and use social media and other platforms to market Ghana’s tourism and heritage to the world.

‘We as Ghanaians should take the lead and market our tourist sites through our platforms to the world to boost our tourism industry,’ she said.

She made this known when she organised an adventure for her fans, dubbed ‘A Savannah Escape with Executive Chef Faila,’ to Mole National Park in the Savannah Region.

Participants visited the mystic stone, Laribanga mosque and Mole National Park to see elephants, antelopes, monkeys and other animals and were treated to hot meals and snacks cooked by Chef Failatu Abdul-Razak, and participated in fun games.

Savannah Regional Senior Assistant Quality Assurance Officer at the Ghana Tourism Authority, Isaac Nyadia, commended Chef Failatu Abdul-Razak for the initiative and encouraged other celebrities to use their platforms to market Ghana’s tourism potential.

‘We wish that more celebrities will use their various platforms to market our tourist sites to the world to boost our industry,’ he said.

In the Republic of Uncommon Sense, we have mastered many arts – talking without listening, mining without thinking, and branding without evidence. The latest victim of this national pastime is Dr. Kenneth Ashigbey, convener of the Media Coalition Against Galamsey, a man who has spent the better part of a decade fighting for the rivers that no longer run and the forests that no longer breathe.

For his troubles, he’s been baptized – not in the polluted waters of the Pra or Ankobra, but in the acidic stream of political labeling. His new title? ‘NPP operative.’

It’s a cruel joke worthy of a Kumawood plot twist: the man who once sparred with NPP officials over the government’s sluggish galamsey fight is now accused of being their secret disciple. If irony could mine gold, Ghana would be Dubai with potholes.

Let’s set the record straight. When Ken Ashigbey speaks, he doesn’t recite party manifestos – he reads the obituary of our environment. He was there when the rivers turned to brown soup. He was there when journalists were beaten for filming the truth. He was there when excavators vanished into thin air like politicians’ promises. And every time, he raised his voice, not his party flag.

So where did this ‘NPP tag’ nonsense come from? From the hallowed chambers of political insecurity, of course – that temple where every criticism must wear a party colour before being heard. It started when Stan Dogbe, now the Deputy Chief of Staff at the Jubilee House, accused Ashigbey of fighting a ‘coloured fight.’ Translation: you’re only angry because your team isn’t in power.

But Ashigbey’s reply was classic Ghanaian gospel – polite but piercing: ‘I pray God forgives you.’ You could almost hear the moral slap echo from Accra to Atewa.

What Dogbe and his chorus conveniently forget is that when the NDC came to power, he named names – Joseph Yamin, Yakubu Abanga, and a host of alleged political miners who treated the soil like family property. When the NPP held the reins, he blasted them for hypocrisy, weak enforcement, and the mysterious disappearance of impounded excavators. He even got arrested – three times – during the NPP era for refusing to shut up. If this is what being an ‘NPP operative’ looks like, then perhaps the party needs more operatives like him.

Ashigbey’s record is simple: he has never traded truth for applause. While politicians were busy forming committees to express concern about why rivers were dying, he was forming coalitions to demand action. While others were calculating electoral gains, he was calculating the turbidity levels of poisoned water.

His latest sermons have grown more urgent. He warns that the ‘window to defeat galamsey is closing fast.’ He calls for declaring states of emergency in mining zones. He criticizes judges who order the release of seized excavators, calling such decisions ‘a betrayal of the national conscience.’ For this, some say he’s too loud. But silence, as Ashigbey knows, is how nations die slowly – drowned first in mud, then in excuses.

In a saner republic, a man like Ken Ashigbey would be decorated, not defamed. He’d be given national airtime, not side-eyes. But this is the Republic of Uncommon Sense, where truth is a stubborn weed – it grows best where it’s least wanted. Here, speaking sense automatically qualifies you for political suspicion. Criticize the NDC, and you’re NPP. Criticize the NPP, and you’re NDC. Criticize both, and they’ll call you mad.

The tragedy is not that Ashigbey has been labeled – it’s that the label is meant to distract from the rot he’s exposing. Galamsey is not a partisan sin; it’s a national suicide note written in mercury and signed by greed. Every day we delay action, we’re one rainfall closer to drinking poison with our porridge.

But Ashigbey soldiers on. Like a prophet preaching to a stubborn congregation, he keeps calling out to a nation losing its moral compass. ‘This fight is not about parties,’ he reminds us. ‘It’s about survival.’ And survival, in the Republic of Uncommon Sense, has become the most radical ideology of all.

So brand him whatever you like – NPP, NDC, NGO, or UFO. Ken Ashigbey remains what few dare to be in this republic: consistent. The rivers know his name. The forests whisper his prayers. And long after politicians have traded seats and excuses, his voice will echo through the valleys of Atewa and the corridors of conscience – reminding us that silence, not criticism, is the real betrayal.

Because in a nation where truth now needs a party clearance, men like Ken Ashigbey are not nuisances – they’re national treasures covered in mud.

OmniBSIC Bank Ghana, the fastest-growing bank in Ghana, has concluded the ninth edition of its quarterly Health Walk, reaffirming its commitment to promoting a culture of wellness, social connection, and community empowerment among staff, customers, and the wider public.

The event brought together employees, customers, vendors, and fitness enthusiasts in a shared commitment to healthy living.

Chairperson of the OmniBSIC Health Walk Committee, Akyaa Arhin Addo-Kufuor, said the growth of the event reflects the bank’s broader purpose beyond financial services. ‘Every edition has surpassed the previous one. What started as a wellness activity for staff has now become a national event that attracts people from Kumasi, Takoradi, and other parts of Ghana. It shows the kind of impact we’re making not only in banking but in people’s everyday lives,’ she said.

She explained that the Health Walk was introduced to raise awareness about the dangers of sedentary lifestyles, especially among professionals. ‘We realised that many of us spend long hours at our desks, and it was important to remind ourselves and others that health must come first. The walk is our way of encouraging regular exercise and balance, even in demanding work environments,’ she noted.

Beyond its fitness focus, the Health Walk has become a vibrant community fair, offering opportunities for small businesses to showcase their products and services at no cost.

Mrs. Addo-Kufuor said this element of inclusivity has been one of the most rewarding outcomes. ‘We do not charge vendors to participate. They come, they sell, and they connect with new customers. It is our way of giving back to the business community and helping enterprises grow,’ she said.

According to her, the initiative has strengthened OmniBSIC’s relationship with its customers and enhanced its reputation as a forward-looking bank.

Mrs. Addo-Kufuor noted that the committee has deliberately kept the format dynamic to sustain enthusiasm. ‘We like to keep people guessing. Every edition is a little different; new routes, new experiences, new energy. People now call ahead just to find out where the next walk will be,’ she said.

Gospel musician Grace Ashy has alleged that a remark by former Black Stars captain Stephen Appiah made her lose interest in supporting the national team.

In a video shared on X on October 6, 2025, Grace Ashy alleged that Stephen Appiah once told her to stop supporting the Black Stars if the state was not paying her.

She explained that the incident happened at an airport when she was helping to mobilise fans for a Ghana versus Gambia match in Kumasi.

According to her, Stephen Appiah’s words hurt her deeply because she had been a loyal team supporter for years.

‘I was very sad when he said that. Since then, even one of my team members has stopped supporting the Black Stars,’ she said.

Grace Ashy was widely known for her energetic songs and strong support for the Black Stars during their major tournaments at the time.

Ghanaian rapper and musician Fameye, born Peter Famiyeh Bozah, has made a surprising revelation that he’s never met dancehall act Shatta Wale in person, despite their previously cordial relationship.

Fameye, in a post on X (formerly Twitter), expressed his disappointment on social media, stating that Shatta Wale has been unresponsive to him for months. He even tried commenting on Shatta Wale’s posts, but faced backlash from his fans.

Fameye has appealed to rapper Medikal, a close friend of Shatta Wale, to help reconnect him with the dancehall star. ‘My brother Medikal, you for carry me go meet Shatta Wale for house ‘cos he’s gone completely mute on me for months. We used to be super cool. He no go fit vex me like that? (sic)’ Fameye’s post read.

Replies under Fameye’s post suggest that Shatta Wale’s silence might be linked to Fameye’s perceived closeness with his longtime rival, Stonebwoy. However, Fameye clarified that his comments were born out of respect and admiration for Shatta Wale, and that they had plans to work together.

Some of the comments under the post read: @TuruMjb, ‘You Dey play 2 sides in Shatta Movement, we don’t do that! We are not saying don’t like the other side, but don’t play 2 sides.’

BruceNana2, wrote, ‘Mr @Antonio @Fameye or whatever you call yourself :)) stick to your ‘Efo’ we seen you already, you can’t be in two camps (sic).’

Yrn Escobar wrote, ‘Some of you di333 you gyemie pass sekof he be free with Stonebwoy nti he can’t be free with Wale too? Ghana ankasa most of Wale fans plenty fool.few weh get sense! Saying we don’t play both side in Shatta Movement Jon’s .ahiafo)) mba nkoaaa so (sic).’

Following the comments, Fameye replied critics, saying, ‘God is the master!! I give respect and show respect to my seniors like it’s supposed to!! My tweet has nothing to do with losing your so-called abused word ‘composure’. Wale has been a friend for a minute, I love him and I miss him responding to my DMs Cos (because) we had plans together!!!!’

Chief Executive Officer of M.Y. Caesar Company Limited, Dr. Caesar, has expressed grave concern over the rising number of kidney-related deaths in the country, urging citizens to adopt healthier lifestyles and prioritise regular medical check-ups to curb the trend.

According to him, recent data suggest that kidney disease claimed 4,161 lives in 2020, representing 2.38% of all deaths in Ghana.

He said the country now ranks 56th globally in kidney disease mortality – a statistic that has alarmed health experts and prompted renewed calls for preventive action.

‘This trend is alarming. Many of these deaths could have been prevented through early diagnosis and lifestyle changes,’ Dr. Caesar said and added, ‘We cannot sit back and allow this to continue. Prevention must be our first line of defense.’

Dr. Caesar, a strong advocate for natural health solutions, noted that most kidney complications develop silently and go unnoticed until they reach advanced stages.

He emphasised that early detection through regular screening can save lives and reduce the growing burden on the nation’s health system.

He urged Ghanaians to adopt healthier habits to protect their kidneys, including reducing salt and fat intake, managing blood sugar and blood pressure levels, exercising regularly, avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, staying hydrated, and refraining from misuse of over-the-counter painkillers.

‘Regular health screening is not a luxury; it’s a necessity. Early detection can mean the difference between life and death,’ he stressed.

Dr. Caesar also highlighted the need for continuous public education on kidney health, warning that lifestyle-related diseases are fast becoming one of the country’s major public health threats.

He noted that through M.Y. Caesar Company Limited, the Kumasi-based natural health enterprise, he has led initiatives promoting the use of food supplements and natural therapies to support patients battling conditions such as kidney disease, liver disorders, diabetes, and infertility.

His holistic approach, he said, aims to complement conventional medicine and bring relief to people seeking safe and sustainable health alternatives.

Acting Chief Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie, has reiterated the need for justice delivery to be anchored on leadership, innovation and technology to enable the Judiciary to deliver on its mandate of adjudicating cases efficiently.

According to him, ‘the convergence of leadership, innovation and technology is not accidental; it is strategic,’ adding that ‘when we integrate these three pillars, we create a justice system that is resilient, inclusive and future-ready.’

Justice Baffoe-Bonnie, in a message ahead of the 2025-2026 legal year, noted that the challenges confronting our justice system-heavy caseloads, case backlogs, limited resources and procedural delays-cannot be addressed by doing things the same way they have always been done.

He, however, pointed out that innovation is not only about introducing new systems, but also about cultivating a culture that values efficiency, openness and adaptability.

‘Court users should encounter not barriers but pathways-clear signage, simplified forms, helpful court staff, and procedures that respect their time and dignity,’ he noted.

He added that the Judiciary must be open to progressive interpretations that reflect the changing realities of society, balancing continuity with the need for justice that is relevant and living.

Touching on technology, Justice Baffoe-Bonnie indicated that it is no longer a luxury for justice delivery but a necessity.

‘The recent global crises have underscored the importance of digital tools in ensuring continuity of service. Virtual hearings, e-filing systems, electronic case management, and digital registries are no longer optional experiments-they are the new frontiers of justice,’ he disclosed.

He said embracing technology enhances transparency by allowing litigants to track their cases, reduces delays by automating repetitive processes, and widens access by breaking geographical barriers.

He, however, advocated caution, noting that technology must not create new divides between those who can access it and those who cannot.

‘As we digitise, we must ensure that no citizen is left behind – that rural communities, the elderly and those without digital literacy are equally empowered to benefit from modernised justice systems,’ he stressed.

He added that ‘investing in technology must also go hand in hand with building the capacity of our judges, lawyers, and court staff. Training and re-training are essential if digital tools are to be effectively used and sustained.’

Justice Baffoe-Bonie also called for strong leadership in the Judiciary, noting that it ‘means more than maintaining tradition; it means having the courage to reform where systems are failing, to speak truth where silence enables injustice, and to remain steadfast in upholding the Constitution even in the face of pressure.’

The Anglican Bishop of Accra, Rt. Rev. Dr. Daniel Sylvanus Mensah Torto, speaking at a church service to usher in the new legal year, noted that the Judiciary must be seen to foster trust among the public and ensure that justice is served without bias, ill will, or favour.

‘The Judiciary must follow due process, not to be against the processes. There must continue to be a non-political arm of government where she acts with integrity and follow the rule of law,’ he added.

Ghana will be hoping to book a place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup when they take on the Central African Republic (CAR) today, October 8, 2025 in Morocco.

The Black Stars currently boast a three-point lead in Group I, ahead of the fixture against CAR, with victory enough to see them advance into the global showpiece.

Otto Addo’s side has dropped just five points throughout the games played in the qualifiers, coming against Comoros (1-0 loss) and Chad (1-1).

CAR sit fifth on the table with just five points from eight games so far, leaving them out of the race to qualify for the World Cup.

Ghana go into Wednesday’s fixture on the back of a draw against Chad and a 1-0 win over Mali at the Accra Sports Stadium during the September international break, while CAR lost both of their games against Madagascar and Comoros, respectively.

Otto Addo is expected to have a full complement of the squad on Tuesday as he currently has 23 players available. Twenty players were involved in the team’s second training session in Casablanca before their departure to Meknes, where they take on CAR.

The gaffer’s 24-man squad has just two new faces, with Kojo Peprah Oppong of OGC Nice and Medeama’s Prince Owusu coming into the team. Abdul Fatawu Issahaku and Alidu Seidu, who suffered long-term injuries to the cruciate ligament, have also returned to the Black Stars fold for the final round of qualifiers.

The Black Stars are hoping to qualify for the fifth World Cup since 2006, having missed only the 2018 edition during that period.

The Food and Beverages Association of Ghana (FABAG) has called on President John Dramani Mahama to initiate immediate reforms at the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) and the Ghana Water Company Limited (GWCL).

Speaking at a press conference in Accra on Monday, the Chairman of FABAG, Rev. John Awuni, said approving new utility tariff increases without comprehensive restructuring of the two agencies would amount to ‘a profound injustice to businesses and households.’

He argued that reforming ECG and the Ghana Water Company goes beyond utility management, describing it as ‘a matter of national security, economic survival, and governance legacy.’

‘ECG and the Ghana Water Company reform is more than a utility issue. It is a matter of national security, economic survival, and governance legacy. If Ghana demonstrates efficiency reform, it will protect households and businesses,’ Rev. Awuni stressed.

He recommended the establishment of a Presidential Compact for both institutions to enhance performance and accountability.

‘Respectfully, we recommend a Presidential Compact for ECG and the Ghana Water Company. We call for a performance compact between the ECG, Ministry of Finance, PURC, and the Energy Commission, signed under His Excellency’s authority,’ he said, urging the President to launch the compact within the next 30 days.

Rev. Awuni further stressed that the greatest legacy President Mahama could leave behind would be to fix ECG and the Ghana Water Company, noting that Ghanaians would experience the benefits of good governance through increased economic activity and a reduction in the cost of goods and services.

‘Ghana deserves a utility sector that powers growth, not one that drains it,’ he emphasised.

Also speaking at the event, the President of the Ghana Plastic Manufacturers Association, Ebbo Botwe, said electricity constitutes one of the major input costs for the plastic industry, noting that recycling alone accounts for about 20 percent of total production costs.

He observed that many manufacturers are now turning to green energy, particularly solar power, but expressed concern that the power sector’s current design is not business-friendly.

‘The structure of the power sector drives away investors and investments from the country and the plastic industry,’ he lamented, urging government to consider their petition and act immediately.

The Upper East Regional Office of the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has imposed a GHS25,000 fine on a pregnant woman for promoting unregistered products on TikTok.

The woman, identified as Madam Perpetual Akurugu, was found advertising unregistered aphrodisiacs and body enhancement products stored in her kitchen cabinets at her home in Yorogo, a community within the Bolgatanga Municipality.

According to the FDA, the agency conducts regular inspections in shops and markets across the region to eliminate unregistered and unsafe products. It also monitors traditional and social media platforms for illegal advertisements.

The acting Upper East Regional Head of the FDA, Mr. Abel Ndego, explained that he personally discovered Akurugu’s TikTok videos during a late-night routine check.

‘It caught my attention because she was speaking Gurune, a local language in the Upper East Region. I visited her page and found several videos advertising unregistered and potentially harmful products,’ he said.

Mr. Ndego explained that after confirming the videos, he instructed his team to investigate further. They later visited her residence, where the products were found and seized.

‘We retrieved the products and arrested her. Even though she is pregnant, the law must take its course to deter others from engaging in similar acts,’ he added.

He expressed concern over the growing misuse of social media for marketing unapproved health and beauty products, especially on Facebook and TikTok, warning that such acts pose serious public health risks.

‘We are mandated under the Public Health Act 851 of 2012 to ensure that all products on the market meet regulatory standards. Our goal is to protect public health and safety,’ Mr. Ndego stressed.

He reiterated the Authority’s determination to make the Upper East Region one of the most compliant in Ghana, emphasising, ‘We are leaving no stone unturned.’