GSA Announces Strict Enforcement of Vehicle Standards from October 1, 2026
The Ghana Standards Authority (GSA) has announced that strict enforcement of the National Vehicle Homologation and Conformity Assessment Programme will begin on October 1, 2026.
According to the Authority, the programme has been in operation since 2020 and is intended to ensure that all vehicles imported into, assembled or manufactured in Ghana comply with national safety, quality and environmental standards.
GSA to Strictly Enforce Vehicle Standards From October 1, 2026 2
Effective October 1, all new vehicle manufacturers, assemblers, used vehicle importers, distributors and dealers must register with the Ghana Standards Authority. New vehicle models must be homologated, while used vehicles must comply with the applicable Ghana Standards before shipment to Ghana.
The GSA stressed that the measure is not a ban on used vehicle imports. Instead, it is aimed at protecting consumers from unsafe, substandard and environmentally harmful vehicles while promoting a safer and more regulated automotive sector.
Vehicles that fail to meet the prescribed standards will not be permitted for importation upon arrival in Ghana. The Authority has encouraged all stakeholders to familiarise themselves with the requirements and ensure compliance before shipping vehicles to the country.
Read more on GhanaNews.org for the latest national developments.
Government Announces GH¢10 Prayer Levy for Achimota Forest Worshippers
Authorities have announced the introduction of a GH¢10 levy for individuals who visit the Achimota Forest for prayer activities, according to reports circulating on Wednesday.
Government Introduces GH¢10 Levy for Prayer Activities at Achimota Forest 4
The Achimota Forest has long been known as a destination where many Christians and other worshippers gather for personal prayers, fasting and spiritual retreats. The reported levy has generated widespread discussion on social media, with many questioning how it will be implemented and enforced.
Supporters argue that the fee could contribute toward maintaining the forest and improving security and sanitation, while critics have raised concerns about its impact on access to a place widely used for religious devotion.
Government officials are expected to provide further details regarding the implementation, purpose and administration of the levy.
Read more stories on GhanaNews.org for the latest national developments and public policy updates.
Afghan Migrant’s Final Farewell Before Tragic Desert Death
A heartbreaking farewell video recorded by a 36-year-old Afghan migrant before his death has touched people around the world after authorities recovered the bodies of 19 migrants in the Nimruz desert.
Afghan Migrant’s Final Goodbye to Family Before Dying of Thirst Moves Millions 6
According to reports, Hayatullah became stranded without water while attempting to cross through the harsh desert on a journey toward Iran. Realizing his situation had become critical, he recorded an emotional message asking his mother and family to forgive him.
Rescue efforts later led to the recovery of the bodies of 19 migrants who reportedly died under the extreme conditions. The tragedy has once again highlighted the dangers faced by thousands of people attempting dangerous migration routes in search of safety or better opportunities.
Humanitarian organizations have repeatedly warned that deserts, mountains and sea crossings continue to claim the lives of migrants every year, urging governments to strengthen protection measures and address the causes of forced migration.
The Bank of Ghana (BoG) and the Chartered Institute of Bankers Ghana (CIB Ghana) have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening ethics, professionalism and resilience across Ghana’s banking industry following a high-level courtesy visit by the Institute’s newly constituted Governing Council.
CIB Ghana, BoG Reaffirm Commitment to Ethics, Professionalism and Banking Resilience 10
The delegation paid a courtesy call on the Governor of the Bank of Ghana, Dr. Johnson Pandit Asiama, at Bank Square in Accra on Friday, July 31, 2026. The visit also served as an opportunity to formally introduce the Institute’s new leadership and express appreciation for the Governor’s continued support for Ghana’s banking industry and the professional body.
The team from CIB Ghana in a group photo with the Governor after the courtesy call
Discussions focused on key priorities shaping the future of Ghana’s financial sector, including ethics and professionalism, customer protection, cybersecurity, fraud prevention, digital assets, banking sector reforms, artificial intelligence (AI) and quantum computing. Both institutions agreed that closer collaboration will be essential to addressing emerging risks while maintaining public confidence in the country’s financial system.
The Governing Council briefed the Governor on several strategic initiatives currently being implemented by CIB Ghana. These include the Branch CEO Programme, the Chartered Banker for Executive Leadership (CBEL) Programme, industry-wide ethics certification, anti-fraud campaigns and research initiatives aimed at producing competent, ethical and future-ready banking professionals.
Incoming CIB Ghana President, Dr. Ellen Ohene-Afoakwa, outlined the Institute’s vision to further strengthen ethics and professionalism within the industry, rebuild the Bankers’ House and successfully host the 2028 World Conference of Banking Institutes (WCBI) in Accra.
The team from CIB Ghana engaging the Governor during the courtesy call
According to the Institute, hosting the global conference will provide Ghana with an opportunity to showcase its banking sector, professional education ecosystem and growing contribution to international banking development while highlighting Africa’s role in shaping the future of financial services.
Governor Dr. Johnson Pandit Asiama stressed that banking professionals, like practitioners in other critical sectors such as healthcare, must consistently demonstrate competence, professionalism and ethical conduct. He commended CIB Ghana for supporting the Bank of Ghana, the Ghana Association of Banks and other industry stakeholders in combating fraud and addressing emerging financial risks.
The Governor also highlighted ongoing efforts by the central bank to strengthen verification processes across the banking industry and ensure the success of community banking reforms. He encouraged the Institute to extend its ethics, professional development and capacity-building programmes to community banks and the broader financial ecosystem.
Both institutions concluded the engagement by reaffirming their shared commitment to building a sound, resilient, ethical and trusted banking sector capable of supporting Ghana’s long-term economic growth and financial stability.
For more business and finance news, visit GhanaNews.org.
Maison Yusif Fragrance has officially introduced The Beast to London, marking another milestone in the Ghanaian luxury fragrance brand’s growing international journey.
Maison Yusif’s ‘The Beast’ Makes Stylish London Debut at Exclusive Launch 12
The exclusive launch took place at Akara London, where creators, influencers, fragrance enthusiasts and distinguished guests gathered to celebrate the unveiling of one of Maison Yusif’s most anticipated creations.
The intimate event offered guests an opportunity to experience The Beast firsthand while learning about the inspiration, craftsmanship and artistic vision behind the fragrance. Throughout the afternoon, attendees interacted with the Maison Yusif team, shared conversations and captured memorable moments celebrating African luxury and creativity.
The launch highlighted the increasing global recognition of African-owned luxury brands and the growing demand for authentic artistic perfumery. Influencers and tastemakers from across London joined the celebration, reflecting the expanding international appeal of Maison Yusif.
What started as a vision in Ghana continues to resonate beyond Africa, with each new launch introducing the Maison Yusif story to new audiences around the world.
Speaking through the event, the brand expressed gratitude to everyone who attended and supported the London launch, describing the occasion as another unforgettable chapter in its journey.
As The Beast continues its international rollout, Maison Yusif says its mission remains focused on celebrating African excellence, craftsmanship and timeless luxury through fragrance.
From Accra to London—and beyond—the story of Maison Yusif continues to inspire fragrance lovers across the globe.
A Kenyan woman has sparked widespread debate after openly stating that one of the reasons she married her husband was so she could inherit his property after his death.
Kenyan Woman Sparks Debate After Saying She Married Husband to Inherit His Property 14
The remarks, made during an interview shared widely on social media, quickly went viral, with many viewers expressing shock while others argued that she was being unusually honest about financial security in marriage.
According to the woman, identified in reports as Anne Mathu, she deliberately married her husband with the understanding that she would eventually inherit his property if he passes away. She suggested that securing her future was among the considerations behind the marriage.
Her comments have divided public opinion. Critics accused her of reducing marriage to financial gain, while others argued that spouses legally inheriting property is a normal part of many marriages and that she merely voiced what some people privately consider.
The discussion has also renewed conversations about inheritance rights for spouses in Kenya. In recent years, legal experts and rights groups have highlighted the challenges many widows face in claiming property after their husbands’ deaths despite protections under Kenyan law.
The interview continues to attract significant attention online, with thousands of users debating whether her comments reflected practical financial planning or undermined the emotional foundation of marriage.
Four people have reportedly lost their lives while several others sustained injuries following a devastating explosion in Aboso in Ghana’s Western Region. Preliminary reports indicate that a stray bullet allegedly fired at a snake accidentally ignited nearby dynamite, resulting in a powerful explosion that caused multiple casualties and extensive destruction.
Four Killed, Several Injured After Stray Bullet Triggers Dynamite Explosion in Aboso 16
Eyewitness accounts suggest the incident occurred when an individual attempted to shoot a snake. The bullet is reported to have struck or triggered explosives stored in the area, leading to a massive blast that claimed four lives instantly while leaving several others with varying degrees of injuries.
Emergency responders and security personnel rushed to the scene to rescue victims and transport the injured to nearby health facilities for medical treatment. Authorities have since cordoned off the affected area as investigations continue into the exact circumstances surrounding the explosion.
Officials are expected to determine whether explosives were being stored in accordance with safety regulations and whether negligence contributed to the tragic incident. Residents have also been urged to avoid the area while investigators complete their work.
The incident has sparked concern over the handling and storage of explosives, particularly in communities where mining-related activities are common. Safety experts continue to emphasize the importance of proper explosive storage and strict adherence to safety protocols to prevent similar tragedies.
Ghana News will continue to monitor the investigation and provide verified updates as more official information becomes available.
The reported payment of a $50,000 FIFA World Cup appearance fee to COCOBOD Chairman Randy Abbey has sparked widespread debate across Ghana.
While the payment is said to be linked to his role during Ghana’s participation in the FIFA World Cup, many Ghanaians are questioning whether it is appropriate for a public official who already earns a salary as the Chairman of the Ghana Cocoa Board to also receive the additional international payment.
Debate Erupts After Randy Abbey Receives $50,000 World Cup Appearance Fee While Serving As COCOBOD Chairman 18
Supporters argue that the World Cup appearance fee is a legitimate entitlement connected to FIFA activities and should not be confused with his responsibilities at COCOBOD. They maintain that if the payment complies with FIFA regulations and Ghanaian law, there is nothing improper about receiving it.
Critics, however, believe the issue goes beyond legality. They argue that public officials should exercise restraint, especially at a time when Ghana continues to face economic challenges. Some have called for greater transparency regarding public office holders who receive additional payments from other institutions.
The development has generated intense discussions on social media, with many citizens divided over whether the payment is justified or raises ethical concerns.
As public interest grows, the debate is expected to continue over transparency, accountability, and the standards expected of senior public office holders.
Hollard Ghana has officially launched its nationwide “We Cover You” campaign to strengthen public awareness of insurance and reinforce the company’s identity as a trusted provider of financial protection for individuals, families and businesses.
The campaign was unveiled at the Achimota Retail Centre in Accra on July 24, 2026, using the symbolic image of vibrant purple cloth to represent care, protection, security and peace of mind.
Daniel Boi Addo speaks during the launch of Hollard Ghana’s “We Cover You” campaign.
According to Hollard, the initiative seeks to address common misconceptions about the company’s brand while helping more Ghanaians understand the role insurance plays in safeguarding lives, homes, businesses and valuable assets against unforeseen events.
Managing Director of Hollard Insurance, Daniel Boi Addo, described the campaign as one of the company’s most significant strategic investments.
He explained that “We Cover You” was designed to simplify conversations around insurance by focusing less on technical policy language and more on how insurance protects people in their everyday lives.
“Hollard is committed to helping more Ghanaians create and secure a better future by protecting what matters most to them,” he said.
Mr. Boi Addo noted that many people had previously associated the Hollard name with fabric due to its similarity to other familiar names, making it important for the company to clearly establish itself as an insurance provider.
He said the campaign aims to improve insurance awareness, expand access among underserved communities and encourage more people to protect their homes, businesses, vehicles, families and livelihoods through insurance.
Acting Head of Marketing and Corporate Affairs at Hollard Ghana, Aviel Benni Derry, said extensive public engagement informed the development of the campaign.
She explained that customer feedback revealed many misconceptions about the Hollard brand, prompting the company to create a campaign that transforms those assumptions into an opportunity to educate the public.
According to her, the campaign’s central creative symbol—cloth—was deliberately selected because it universally represents warmth, dignity, care, comfort and protection.
She said the cloth is shown embracing families, homes, vehicles and businesses throughout the campaign to visually communicate Hollard’s promise of protection.
Mrs. Derry thanked the company’s leadership, employees and creative partners for their contributions to bringing the nationwide campaign to life.
Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Insurers Association (GIA), Dr. Kingsley Kwesi Kwabahson, praised Hollard for adopting an innovative approach to increasing public understanding of insurance.
He said strengthening trust in insurance requires a collective effort involving insurers, the media and policyholders.
Dr. Kwabahson also encouraged insurance companies to honour legitimate claims promptly and simplify insurance products to make them easier for consumers to understand and appreciate.
The “We Cover You” campaign forms part of Hollard Ghana’s broader commitment to making insurance more accessible, relatable and relevant to Ghanaians while promoting greater financial security nationwide.
Stanbic Bank Ghana has become the first bank in the country to offer direct Chinese Yuan (RMB) settlement through the China Cross-Border Interbank Payment System (CIPS), simplifying trade and payments between Ghana and China.
Stanbic Bank Ghana has made history by becoming the first bank in Ghana to provide clients with direct access to the China Cross-Border Interbank Payment System (CIPS), following approval from the Bank of Ghana.
Stanbic Bank First In Ghana To Launch Direct Chinese Yuan Payments Via CIPS 21
The milestone positions Stanbic Bank at the forefront of Standard Bank Group’s expansion of CIPS services across Africa after the Group became the first African banking group licensed as a direct participant in the Chinese payment system.
CIPS is the official payment infrastructure authorised by the People’s Bank of China to clear and settle cross-border transactions in Chinese Yuan (RMB). The platform provides businesses and individuals with a faster, more secure and more cost-effective alternative for RMB-denominated payments.
Ghana is among six African countries selected for the first phase of Standard Bank Group’s continental rollout, highlighting the country’s growing importance in trade with China.
The new service enables businesses trading with China, as well as individuals making tuition, medical and other eligible RMB payments, to settle transactions directly from their Ghana Cedi accounts through Stanbic Bank without relying on multiple intermediary banks.
Chief Executive of Stanbic Bank Ghana, Kwamina Asomaning, described the development as a major milestone for both the bank and the Ghana-China trade relationship.
He said the initiative reflects Stanbic Bank’s commitment to supporting Ghanaian businesses with modern financial infrastructure that makes international trade simpler, faster and more efficient.
According to him, China remains one of Ghana’s most important trading partners, making direct Yuan settlement an important tool for businesses seeking greater efficiency in cross-border commerce.
Mr. Asomaning noted that the service is backed by Standard Bank Group’s strategic partnership with the Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (ICBC), creating greater opportunities for Ghanaian businesses to access Asian markets.
He added that many businesses have long sought simpler and more reliable ways to pay Chinese suppliers, explaining that CIPS offers a direct alternative for RMB payments while allowing customers to continue using Stanbic Bank’s existing relationship managers, branches and digital banking platforms.
Businesses have traditionally encountered challenges including foreign exchange liquidity constraints, multiple correspondent banks and delays in processing international payments. Direct settlement through CIPS is expected to reduce these barriers while improving payment efficiency.
For more than 26 years, Stanbic Bank Ghana has remained one of Ghana’s leading financial institutions. As part of Standard Bank Group, Africa’s largest bank by assets, the bank continues to expand innovative financial solutions that support economic growth and international trade.
