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Ghana and UAE forge strategic energy pact
Ghana and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have committed to a major expansion of their strategic energy partnership following high-level talks between President John Dramani Mahama and UAE President, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
The agreement, reached Wednesday on the sidelines of the “Make it in the Emirates 2026” summit, centers on a landmark proposal for the UAE to invest in oil and gas storage infrastructure across Ghana.
The two leaders, meeting at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre, signaled a shift toward modernizing their energy sectors.
While reinforcing traditional oil and gas ties, they emphasised a transition toward Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) and solar power to reduce a historical over-reliance on crude oil.
During the exchange, President Mahama expressed strong solidarity with the UAE regarding the volatile security situation in the Middle East.
Acknowledging the UAE’s sensitive role as a regional buffer, both leaders called for a swift de-escalation of US-Iran hostilities.
They noted that regional stability is the only path toward allowing the global community to refocus on innovation and sustainable development.
“Ghana remains a peaceful partner and a secure, stable democracy,” Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan stated, noting that Ghana offers significant opportunities for mutual growth.
Beyond energy, the bilateral talks covered a broad spectrum of future-facing industries, including, Artificial Intelligence and Technology, Renewable Energy and Climate Innovation Trade and Investment Diversification.
The meeting concluded with a reaffirmation of the deep historical bonds between the two nations.
Both presidents expressed optimism that this renewed partnership will yield immediate, tangible advancements in trade and technology, securing a more prosperous and sustainable future for both Ghanaians and Emiratis.
Muslims across the country celebrated this year’s Eid-ul-Adha in a colourful and spiritually uplifting atmosphere under the theme, “A Season of Sacrifice, Solidarity and Spiritual Renewal.”
The celebration brought together Muslims from diverse backgrounds in a remarkable display of faith, unity and cultural heritage.
The occasion was marked by special Eid prayers at various designated grounds, the slaughtering of rams in homes for sharing among family members, friends and the less privileged, as well as musical concerts and recreational activities including horse riding.
Leading the celebration was the Chief Imam, Dr Sheikh Osman Sharubutu.
While the national celebration was held at the Black Star Square where President John Dramani Mahama was the Special Guest of Honour, similar gatherings took place at different centres across the capital and other regions of the country.
A visit by The Spectator to some celebration grounds revealed Muslims, both young and old, elegantly dressed in colourful jalabiya and other Islamic attire, reflecting the rich culture and traditions of the Muslim community.
The celebration also portrayed the spirit of religious tolerance and peaceful coexistence in the country, as a number of Christians joined their Muslim counterparts to mark the occasion.
Muslim leaders and government officials used the opportunity to call on the faithful to uphold the teachings of the Holy Quran, renew their spiritual commitment and refrain from acts capable of undermining the peace, unity and security of the nation.
They further urged Ghanaians to continue to live in harmony and support one another for national development.
By Linda Abrefi Wadie
Dear Obaa Yaa,
During Eid-ul- Adha celebration, I decided to spend the weekend at my boyfriend’s place since we were planning towards our marriage.
To my surprise, what keeps me wide awake, restless and frustrated every single time is that he snores loudly like a generator running on full power, and I genuinely cannot get any rest
At a point, I thought it was just a normal thing, but I have realised it is something he does with ease and doesn’t see anything wrong with it.
When he steps out in the morning, I try to get enough sleep because I may not sleep in the evening.
The most annoying thing is that, he always wants to cuddle me. These two things are a no for me and a red flag.
We are about to get married, what should I do?
Enam, Keta.
Dear Enam,
The snoring and constant cuddling are frustrating, but you don’t have to choose between sleep and closeness.
Start with the snoring: check if it’s worse when he sleeps on his back, cut out alcohol before bed, try nasal strips or a humidifier, and see a doctor if he pauses while breathing.
For quick relief, foam earplugs or noise-cancelling headphones help a lot.
Separate blankets, a bigger bed, or sleeping apart on some nights often makes couples rest well and feel closer overall.
Bring this up before the wedding .Tell him you want to wake up next to him for years to come, but sleep deprivation makes you both miserable.
Test earplugs and side-sleeping this weekend, and if it’s still unbearable, bring in a doctor. Good sleep matters more for your marriage than staying glued together all night.
