News
Ghana requests AU discussion on xenophobic attacks in South Africa
The Government of Ghana has formally written to the African Union requesting that xenophobic attacks against African nationals in South Africa be placed on the agenda of the upcoming Mid-Year Coordination Meeting of the AU.
In a letter dated May 6, 2026, Ghana’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the matter should be discussed at the Eighth Mid-Year Coordination Meeting scheduled for June 24 to 27 in El Alamein, Egypt.
According to the government, recurring xenophobic incidents in South Africa have led to the loss of lives, destruction of investments, and threats to the safety and wellbeing of many African nationals living there.
The letter noted that the continued attacks on fellow Africans are worrying, especially considering the support many African countries offered South Africa during the struggle against apartheid and the country’s transition to democracy.
While acknowledging South Africa’s sovereignty and responsibility to protect people within its territory, the Government of Ghana said the targeting of African nationals goes against the principles of African solidarity, brotherhood, and continental unity upheld by member states of the African Union.
The government further argued that the attacks violate the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, weaken the spirit of Pan-Africanism and regional integration, and contradict the goals of the African Continental Free Trade Area, which promotes free movement and economic cooperation across the continent.
Ghana has therefore asked the Chairperson of the African Union Commission, acting under the authority of the Chairperson of the African Union, to ensure the matter is officially included on the agenda of the upcoming meeting in line with the AU’s rules of procedure.
The government believes discussions on the issue will help African leaders find lasting solutions to xenophobic violence and strengthen unity among member states.
By: Jacob Aggrey
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.
