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Black Starlets throw away two-goal lead in U-17 AFCON opener against Algeria

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The Black Starlets were left frustrated after surrendering a commanding two-goal advantage to draw 2-2 with Algeria in their opening Group D match at the TotalEnergies CAF U-17 Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2026.

The Black Starlets made a dream start to the encounter, taking the lead just two minutes after kickoff through Yao Gavi Robinho.

The youngster reacted quickest in the area to put Ghana ahead and set the tone for what looked to be a dominant evening for Dr. Prosper Narteh Ogum’s side.

Eight minutes later, Eric Adu Gyamfi produced a moment of pure brilliance that instantly lit up the tournament.

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Spotting the Algerian goalkeeper off his line, the midfielder unleashed an audacious long-range volley from the center area that sailed beautifully into the net to double Ghana’s advantage in spectacular fashion.

With confidence flowing through the team, the Black Starlets continued to create numerous opportunities and should have extended their lead before halftime. However, wastefulness in front of goal kept Algeria alive in the contest despite Ghana’s dominance in the opening half.

The second half, however, told a completely different story as Algeria returned with renewed energy and intensity. The North Africans pushed forward relentlessly and gradually turned the game around with two goals before the 70th minute to draw level against a stunned Ghanaian side.

Algeria were later handed a golden opportunity to complete the comeback after being awarded a penalty, but the effort was blasted wide.

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The result leaves South Africa at the top of Group D following their victory over Senegal in the other group fixture.

The Starlets will now shift attention to their crucial second group game against Senegal on May 17 as they aim to bounce back and revive their campaign.

GFA COMMUNICATIONS
[13:37, 15/05/2026] Edem: Ghana concludes IMF bailout programme, shifts to policy coordination instrument

The Government of Ghana has announced the successful completion of its Extended Credit Facility bailout programme with the International Monetary Fund (IMF), marking what it describes as the end of the country’s financial bailout relationship with the Fund.

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In a statement issued by the Presidency Communications Office on Friday, government explained that the country would now transition to a non financing Policy Coordination Instrument (PCI) arrangement with the IMF.

According to the statement signed by Felix Kwakye Ofosu, spokesperson to President John Dramani Mahama and Minister for Government Communications, the conclusion of the programme reflects the restoration of macroeconomic stability and debt sustainability ahead of schedule.

The statement noted that after the IMF programme was derailed at the end of 2024, the Mahama administration introduced strict fiscal measures, expenditure controls and structural reforms in 2025 to bring the programme back on track.

Government indicated that the measures have led to a significant reduction in inflation, a stronger cedi, lower public debt levels and improved economic growth.

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It stated that Ghana’s sovereign credit ratings had improved from restricted default status to a “B” rating with a positive outlook, representing what it described as five levels of upgrades.

According to the statement, Ghana’s gross international reserves rose to about 14.5 billion dollars by February 2026, providing nearly six months of import cover.

Government explained that the reserves would help the country withstand external economic shocks and strengthen economic stability.

The statement further clarified that the new Policy Coordination Instrument with the IMF would not involve financial support or bailout funds.

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Instead, it said the PCI would provide technical assistance, support economic reforms, boost investor confidence and help Ghana attract financing from private investors and development partners.

Government believes the arrangement will support efforts to achieve investment grade status, which it says could reduce borrowing costs, attract long term investors and create cheaper financing opportunities for infrastructure and private sector growth.

The Presidency also expressed appreciation to Ghanaians for their sacrifices and patience during the programme period.

It further thanked bilateral creditors, the Official Creditor Committee and both domestic and external investors for their support throughout the process.

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Government reaffirmed its commitment to prudent economic management, fiscal discipline and creating a favourable environment for investment and job creation.

By: Jacob Aggrey

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NPP stages massive “Democracy Under Attack” Demo In Accra

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The New Patriotic Party (NPP) on Wednesday, August 6, 2026, staged a massive nationwide protest in Accra dubbed “Democracy Under Attack” to register its displeasure over what it describes as threats to Ghana’s democratic governance and justice system.

The demonstration commenced at 5:00 a.m., with hundreds of party supporters, executives and sympathizers gathering at the forecourt of the Supreme Court before marching through principal streets of the capital.

Ahead of the protest, the NPP National Steering Committee directed Regional, Constituency and Polling Station Executives in Greater Accra to work closely to mobilize members and supporters for the event.

Led by General Secretary Justin Kodua Frimpong, the protesters presented their first petition at the Supreme Court.

The five-page petition was received by Judicial Secretary, Musah Ahmed, on behalf of the Chief Justice.

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He assured the party leadership that the document would be delivered to the Chief Justice.

At the Jubilee House, Presidential Staffer Nana Yaa Jantuah received the second petition on behalf of the President.

However, the gesture did not sit well with some party leaders.

Majority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, who also presented a petition, expressed disappointment at the government’s representation.

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“Electing only Nana Yaa Jantuah to receive the petition on behalf of the government was an insult and did not show respect,” he said.

According to him, “It meant government did not place premium on the Democracy Under Attack demonstration.”

Speeches and Concerns Raised
Addressing the crowd, MP for Akuapem North, Sammy Awuku criticized what he called the criminalization of free speech.
“Arresting citizens for just insults doesn’t strengthen Ghana’s democracy,” he stated.

Dennis Miracles Aboagye, an embattled National Communications Director hopeful, also spoke about the climate of fear.

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“Democracy under attack demo: I love to speak but right now I am afraid,” he told journalists.

One protester, a local trader, shared her frustration about the state of Ghana’s economy as she joined the march. She said the rising cost of living and governance issues compelled her to hit the streets.

The NPP leadership expressed appreciation to its members, civil society organizations and other political parties for cooperating fully to ensure a successful and peaceful event.

The “Democracy Under Attack” demonstration forms part of the party’s response to concerns it has raised over issues relating to Ghana’s democratic governance, rule of law and the justice system.

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Security was tight but calm throughout the march, with no major incidents reported.

By Edem Mensah-Tsotorme

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GACL introduces hotline and “mystery shopping” to fight airport extortion

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The Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL) has announced new measures to stop extortion and begging by airport personnel at airports under its management.

The decision was taken at a high-level stakeholder facilitation meeting held in Accra on Wednesday, August 5, 2026.

In a press statement issued after the meeting, GACL said stakeholders agreed to introduce a “mystery shopping” system in which individuals would secretly assess the conduct of airport personnel.

According to the statement, workers found engaging in extortion would be publicly identified through appropriate media channels as part of a “name and shame” campaign aimed at discouraging the practice and promoting accountability.

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GACL said staff found guilty would face disciplinary action and would no longer be allowed to work at any airport or within its surroundings.

The company also announced a dedicated hotline, 0542175636, through which passengers can report extortion by airport officials and service providers by phone call, WhatsApp or SMS.

The statement said reports should include the date and time of the incident, the name of the officer, the agency involved and the location where the incident occurred.

GACL said the hotline covers personnel from several agencies and companies operating at the airports, including the Ghana Immigration Service, Customs, the Ghana Civil Aviation Authority, the Ghana Police Service, National Security, airlines, ground handling companies, private security firms and airport concessionaires such as shops and restaurants.

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The company reminded passengers that they have the right to ask any airport official to show an Airport Identification Card before dealing with them.

It advised travellers to request receipts for all payments made at the airport and to report any suspicious transaction through the hotline.

GACL said it was working together with airport stakeholders to improve standards at the airports and protect Ghana’s image.

The company added that public cooperation in reporting unacceptable conduct would help strengthen confidence in the country’s airports and support efforts to position Ghana as a
leading aviation hub in West Africa.

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By: Jacob Aggrey

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