AGP Executive Report

Xenophobia & Migration Crisis: South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa vowed a crackdown on groups inciting xenophobic violence, stressing only authorised officials will enforce immigration laws, as Ghana and other countries continue evacuations amid rising tensions. Ghana Evacuation Updates: Ghana received more returnees from South Africa—342 on Sunday and earlier batches—while the government says reintegration is underway, including about 200 job opportunities secured for evacuees and fresh pledges from firms like AirtelTigo and Telecel. Climate & Flooding Accountability: Ghana’s EPA warned the planet is “no longer negotiating” as flooding worsens, while NADMO officials in Tema West blamed unauthorised construction on waterways and poor sanitation for recent deluges. Sanitation Enforcement: In Upper West, RICCS urged strict prosecution of sanitation offenders to curb open defecation and indiscriminate waste disposal. Culture, Faith & Community: The Presbyterian Church of Ghana honoured two long-serving agents at a retirement service, celebrating decades of service in remote communities. Sports & Society: A new debate reignited over how football bodies treat racist abuse, with calls for stronger, consistent action. Youth & Entrepreneurship: Young entrepreneurs pushed for more funding for Adwumawura and a shift to a dedicated youth enterprise agency.

Afrophobia & Repatriation: Ghana continues evacuations from South Africa as a second batch of 345 returnees lands in Accra, with Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa promising legal moves to secure compensation for destroyed businesses and urging returnees to rebuild at home. South Africa Pushback: Pretoria warns Ghana against “public spectacles” during evacuations and insists there will be no “shutdown” despite anti-immigration protests. Immigration Reality Check: Regional reporting says major exodus fears are not matching migration data, with IOM and UNHCR reporting no surge in requests for assisted returns. World Environment Day: Ghana marks June 5 with renewed calls to tackle climate-linked disasters, as EPA and NADMO point to human-driven flooding, waste dumping, and blocked waterways. Tree for Life Momentum: Volta launches Tree for Life planting targets, while schools and communities join youth-led climate action. Culture & Tourism: Tourism Ministry unveils the 2026 Heritage Photo Competition and AfroGastro festival, while Ghana’s e-Visa fees draw warnings they could hurt tourism. Local Governance & Safety: A project to boost women’s representation in district assemblies is launched, and GNFS pushes the Automated Fire Compliance and Safety System to improve fire safety compliance. Health & Education: Free screenings reach Tema residents, and educators stress skills beyond the classroom. Policy Debate: Ghana’s anti-LGBTQ bill remains in the spotlight as public voices urge procedure and values-based discussion.

World Cup 2026: FIFA kicks off June 11 with a 48-team, 104-match spectacle across the US, Canada and Mexico—now with new match breaks, rising costs, and tighter security/visa rules shaping the fan experience. Migration & visas: South Africa rejects a June 30 shutdown threat as xenophobic tensions drive evacuations across the region, while the US plans to consolidate African visa services into 20 hubs, raising barriers for applicants. Ghana politics & rights: Media Foundation for West Africa says arrests over false news and offensive speech have surged under Mahama; meanwhile, the anti-LGBTQ+ bill debate continues with lawmakers and faith voices clashing over assent, enforcement, and free speech. Culture & community: ArthurLegacy Sports backs Como 1907’s Ghana visit to inspire youth through football and outreach; the Christian Council launches “Voice of CCG” to speak on national issues; and Mankessim queenmother Nana Ama Amissah III is mourned after her remains are repatriated. Health & education: WFP and Lions Club launch home-grown school feeding for 33,598 pupils; studies flag anaemia risks; and World Menstrual Hygiene Day sees pad support for girls. Environment & safety: Christian Council urges action against waste and blocked waterways as floods are framed as governance failures. Digital creators: Bloggers Association trains content creators on growth and revenue strategies.

Education & Health Skills: Mudiame University (Nigeria) signs an MoU to set up an NCLEX/USMLE preparation centre, aiming to close the gap in international licensing readiness. School Safety & Exams: Kumasi Academy alumni (KAPSA/Akunini Global) back GES and management after arson-threat allegations led to police action and arrests. Healthcare Access: Ghana’s “No Bed Syndrome” remains a major worry as overcrowding blocks timely care, while HeFRA warns nursing colleges against admitting beyond capacity. Public Health & Safety: GHS condemns the assault of a midwife in Tema; Health Minister urges Ghanaians to avoid handshakes amid Ebola PHEIC alerts. Climate & Environment: Germany signals direct funding support for WASCAL’s CCAN initiative; Northern Region targets 150,000 trees under Tree for Life, and Cape Coast joins with a local planting drive. Digital Future: Ghana to teach coding, AI and augmented reality from early school years, pushing digital sovereignty at eLearning Africa. Lifestyle & Society: NPA distributes 60,000+ sanitary pads for World Menstrual Hygiene Day, and World Autism Awareness Day spotlights Ghana’s diagnosis and support gaps. Migration & Rights: Ghana warns citizens to avoid South Africa as xenophobic tensions rise; evacuees gather at the High Commission ahead of further flights. Politics & Rights Debate: Parliament’s Minority accuses the NDC of rewriting its anti-LGBTQ+ position; meanwhile, calls grow for judges to uphold judicial independence and for free speech protections.

Xenophobia & Migration: Nigeria has started screening for a voluntary plan to repatriate over 1,000 nationals from South Africa as anti-foreigner tensions flare, following Ghana’s recent evacuation of hundreds amid violence. National ID & Inclusion: The NIA has begun a one-month mop-up Ghana Card registration for children aged 6–14 in Volta and Oti, aiming to capture about 3.1 million children nationwide. Sports Tourism: Ghana officially launched the Black Star Balloon Tour to boost patriotism and tourism, with traditional leaders and youth groups backing the community-by-community initiative. Media Leadership: Dr Isaac Okpoti Nai has been appointed Managing Director of New Times Corporation, tasked with professionalism, integrity and team ownership. Health & Public Trust: A vaccine awareness survey finds only 14.3% of Ghanaians know about local vaccine production plans for 2027, despite high overall trust in vaccines. Community Safety: Catholic Relief Services trains faith groups and civilians in Northern Ghana on civil-security engagement to prevent violent extremism. Lifestyle & Culture: Danish football development NGO leader Laura Juul Hansen brings Italian club Como 1907 to Ghana for grassroots youth opportunities. Environment & Health: Tree for Life activities in Keta schools mark World Environment Day with palm and mahogany planting. Business & Travel: Ghana’s e-Visa rollout is seen as a boost for tourism and trade, but analysts warn high visa fees could hurt competitiveness.

Ebola Preparedness: Ghana’s Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh urged people to temporarily avoid handshakes, step up hand hygiene, and improve airport screening as the WHO flags Ebola as a Public Health Emergency. Homowo Culture: Ga Mashie lifted a month-long ban on drumming and noise-making after the Gbese Mantse Palace ceremony, clearing the way for Homowo Festival activities in August. School Plastic Push: OmniBSIC Bank and partners launched a plastic recovery and innovation drive in five Accra SHSs, setting up Green Technology Clubs and a teens’ guide to cut waste. Family & Sports Drama: Former England star John Fashanu reignited a public spat with his daughter Amal, insisting he’s “fighting fit” and not suffering a mystery illness. World Cup Style Talk: A World Cup kit ranking spotlighted the best and worst jerseys, with Ghana’s home kit getting a mention. Border & Safety: Interior Minister Muntaka Mohammed Mubarak urged coordinated security at borders, while Ghana also moved on e-Visa reforms—though analysts warn high visa fees could hurt tourism. Health & Tobacco: Ghana marked World No Tobacco Day with warnings that flavoured shisha and e-cigarettes are luring youth and threatening tobacco control gains. Education for Early Years: The Ministry of Education scaled play-based learning across public kindergartens, stressing play as a foundation for literacy and numeracy. Identity for Children: NIA announced Ghana Card registration for kids aged 6–14 in the Northern Region starting June 11.

Digital Rights & Morality: Communications Minister Samuel Nartey George says Ghana is considering ID verification to access porn sites, framing it as child protection and safer online space—while critics warn it could expand state surveillance. LGBTQ+ Law Fallout: Parliament’s Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill continues to spark public clashes and calls for reconsideration, with lawmakers and analysts questioning process, consensus, and possible court challenges. Migration & Xenophobia: South Africa’s anti-immigrant violence has triggered fresh diplomatic back-and-forth after Mozambique reported deaths, while Ghana and others push evacuation and travel advisories. Human Trafficking Crackdown: A Nigerian trader in Accra was sentenced to seven years for trafficking and exploiting victims, after GIS operations rescued two people from forced prostitution. Local Governance & Culture: Tema Traditional Council renews its appeal for industry support to fund stool projects, while the VP is set to launch a revised National Cultural Policy to boost heritage and the creative economy. Education Support: A Volta youth chief pledges to sponsor printing of BECE results for Ketu South graduates, covering thousands of candidates. Music & Lifestyle: Veteran highlife star Amandzeba laments Ghana’s music industry being treated like “fast food,” while Okyeame Kwame signs a brand deal for waterproof cement.

Tobacco Warning: Ghana’s Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh urged youth to shun flavoured and e-cigarettes, saying tobacco still fuels cancer and preventable deaths. Prison & Dignity: Activa Group Foundation visited Nsawam Female Prison for Menstrual Hygiene Month, donating pads and essentials to support inmates’ dignity and health. Art & Giving: TOP CHARITY Art 2026 spotlighted 14 standout works, with proceeds backing educational, cultural and humanitarian projects in Ghana and beyond. Mozambique Repatriation: South Africa’s Border Management Authority confirmed 933 Mozambicans processed via Lebombo Port, with 926 successfully departing and seven held back over documentation issues. Economy & Investment: Finance Minister Cassiel Ato Forson unveiled Ghana’s 2029 investment-grade target in London as President Mahama argued Africa’s debt is mispriced. Road Safety: Road crashes killed 1,009 people in Ghana from January to April, with injuries and crashes rising even as fatalities dipped slightly. Building Collapse: One woman died and two children were trapped after a three-storey building collapsed at Adenta New Site. Consumer Protection: “Verify Before You Buy” is set for a nationwide rollout, pushing shoppers to check expiry dates, batch numbers and supplier legitimacy. Sports Infrastructure: Astroturf Ghana met the National Sports Authority to improve football pitch quality and curb substandard turf. Ghana-UK Ties: President Mahama met King Charles III at Buckingham Palace, reaffirming cooperation on trade, investment and sustainable development.

Education & Safety: GTEC warns of 70 unrecognised tertiary institutions, urging students to verify accreditation before enrolling. Health & Youth: AIDS Healthcare Foundation marks 2026 Menstrual Hygiene Day with stigma-free education for pupils at University of Ghana Staff Village School. Disaster Response: Wenchi’s ‘C’ Methodist Basic School in Bono Region faces classroom damage after a downpour, forcing class combining while repairs are sought. Jobs & Infrastructure: UK-backed PIDG is investing £101m in Takoradi Port’s ship repair/dry-docking facility, targeting up to 430 jobs (30% for women). Public Services: GES begins 2026 inter-regional and inter/intra district re-posting for teachers and staff, with assurances starting June 3. Culture & Giving: Dr Likee settles GH¢76,026 in hospital bills at KATH and donates items for needy mothers. Environment & City Cleanliness: AMA schedules June 6 National Sanitation Day “Operation Free Choked Drains” to tackle flooding. Lifestyle & Travel: Ghana’s e-Visa launch could boost tourism, but analysts warn high visa fees may hurt competitiveness. Sports Investment: Ghana Sports Fund courts investors in London to upgrade facilities and develop talent. Maritime/Trade Spotlight: Marine Drive takes centre stage at the Ghana–UK Investment Summit in London.

South Africa Evacuation Update: Ghana’s High Commission in South Africa has temporarily suspended repatriation registration after receiving over 1,500 applications, saying it needs time to verify the surge before the next registration phase. Xenophobia Fallout: Mozambique accused South Africa of failing to protect its citizens after reports of xenophobic killings in Mossel Bay, while Ramaphosa vowed tougher action on illegal migration as anti-foreigner protests spread. Anti-LGBTQ+ Bill Scrutiny: President John Mahama says Ghana’s anti-LGBTQ+ bill will be reviewed before approval, citing it as a private motion and pointing to procedural lapses to be addressed by Parliament’s Speaker; ACEPA also warns it could face court challenges. Child Health & Inclusion: Stakeholders urged Ghana to tackle stigma around clubfoot and push early treatment, noting free care is available for young children. Flood Solutions: GhIE says Accra’s flooding can only be tackled by mandatory rainwater harvesting and on-site storage for households and developers. Business & Culture: Lower Pra Community Bank posts GH¢35.1m profit before tax; Ghanaian documentary “Too Much Music” lands in Locarno Open Doors for the AFP Critics Prize.

Anti-LGBTQ Bill Revisited: Ghana’s Parliament Speaker Alban Bagbin has ordered a reconsideration of the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, saying procedural gaps during its May 29 passage must be corrected and wider consensus secured. Civic Education & Jobs: The NCCE is calling for a new social contract to tackle youth unemployment and prepare Ghana for AI-driven job losses. South Africa Xenophobia Fallout: Ghana has paused new repatriation sign-ups after 1,500 Ghanaians registered, as xenophobic violence continues; Mozambique also reports deaths in the attacks. US Visa Shake-up for Africa: The US plans to cut visa-processing embassies in Africa from nearly 50 to 20 hubs, with Accra among the locations. World Cup Buzz: FIFA released full rosters for the 2026 World Cup—1,248 players across 48 teams—while Spain leads early title odds. Women in Football: Ghana’s GFA is training 19 former Black Queens players for coaching careers through an all-female CAF licence course. Local Governance & Care Work: YEA begins consultations on a Domestic Services Module to formalise household work with training and certification.

Xenophobia & Travel Advisory: Ghana’s Foreign Ministry has urged citizens to avoid non-essential travel to South Africa after xenophobic attacks, citing injuries, looting, business closures and property loss; the government says it has summoned the South African Acting High Commissioner, petitioned the African Union, and is coordinating evacuation for Ghanaians in danger. Human Trafficking Crackdown: Ghana Immigration Service rescued 112 suspected trafficking victims in Asankragwa and repatriated 105 foreign nationals, with 7 suspects under investigation. Anti-LGBTQ+ Bill Update: President Mahama says the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill still faces legal/procedural hurdles, while the Minority argues the version lacks “teeth” due to exemptions. Women’s Leadership: Ghana Employers Association graduated 61 women leaders under its Female Future Programme, pushing leadership beyond strategy. Menstrual Health Push: FAWE called for stronger action to end period poverty and menstrual stigma across Africa. Digital Skills Momentum: Ghana’s One Million Coders Program logged 12,623 course completions. Clean Water for Communities: Republic Bank commissioned solar-powered mechanized boreholes in Pwalugu and Dingoni. Infrastructure & Jobs: UK-backed Takoradi Port ship repair facility gets £101m investment, targeting up to 430 jobs (30% for women).

Xenophobia & Travel Advisory: Ghana warns citizens to avoid non-essential travel to South Africa after renewed xenophobic attacks, citing injuries, looting and business takeovers, while promising evacuation support and urging close contact with the Ghana High Commission. Women’s Leadership: The Gender Minister says women’s full participation in leadership is key to Ghana’s growth, calling for deliberate, measurable action to remove barriers. Menstrual Health (Inclusion): VOWAC Ghana marks World Menstrual Hygiene Day by stressing inclusive menstrual hygiene as a right, launching dignity kit support for girls with disabilities. Anti-LGBTQ+ Bill Fallout: Minority MPs reject amendments to the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, urging a return to the 2024 version, while President Mahama says procedural and legal issues still need sorting before assent. Education & Standards: GTEC lists 70 unrecognised institutions, including 14 in Ghana, warning the public to verify certificates. Youth & Football: QNET and Manchester City deliver a world-class football clinic in Accra for children aged 7–11, blending coaching with life skills. Water & Community Health: Compassion International closes its eight-year maternal and early childhood programme in Tongu, while Republic Bank inaugurates mechanized boreholes in Upper East and Northern regions. Digital Governance: GIMPA launches a Centre for West African Studies for Digital Public Governance to drive research-led digital transformation.

Anti-LGBTQ+ Bill Fallout: Ghana’s Parliament has passed the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill again, with fresh debate over exemptions for lawyers, journalists and health professionals, while rights groups warn of constitutional challenges and possible procedural issues. Tax & Governance: A new report says Ghana’s tax system is now more data-driven and enforcement-focused, powered by the Integrated Tax Administration System (ITAS) and wider use of digital tools. Migration & Xenophobia: As anti-immigrant tensions in South Africa rise, Ghana’s diplomatic mission and rights groups urge action; Ghana also continues repatriation moves, including cases involving detained Ghanaians abroad. Culture & Community: Kantanka’s family unveils funeral cloths ahead of final rites; Royal Women in Cinema Ghana supports menstrual hygiene with reusable kits for girls. Skills & Jobs: TVET graduation highlights skilled youth as the route to employment, while Vivo Energy Ghana partners to train mechanics. Business & Development: Olam Agri’s CEO wins agribusiness top honours; Heath Goldfields launches a US$20m five-year community plan; Vilacesti eyes a Korea-Africa smart tech hub.

Ghana–Jamaica Health Deal: Ghana has signed a new bilateral agreement to deploy about 400 Ghanaian nurses to Jamaica, with talks also covering defence, tourism and possible teacher exchanges after the two countries revived their cooperation commission after 21 years. Culture & Youth Creativity: The Tourism Ministry launched the 2026 Afro-Gastro Festival and a National Heritage Photography Competition for young people (25 and below), aiming to boost cultural tourism and creative jobs. Peace Through Music: Reggae broadcaster Blakk Rasta drew an estimated 50,000 people to the 1North, 1People Peace Concert in Zebilla, after traditional leaders endorsed the peace push in the Bawku zone. Menstrual Health Outreach: Royal Women in Cinema Ghana marked World Menstrual Hygiene Day with reusable sanitary kits for over 200 girls in Anloga, tackling period poverty and stigma. Education & Health Screening: A free eye screening in Wa found only 98 of 1,123 children had normal vision, with most needing treatment or glasses. Anti-LGBTQ Bill Fallout: Ghana’s parliament passed a restrictive anti-LGBTQ law criminalising same-sex relations and “promotion” of LGBTQ activities, drawing renewed debate over exemptions and rights. Digital Conduct: Sam Creatives CEO urged young people to use social media responsibly, warning that careless posts can damage careers and relationships for life.

Eid-ul-Adha Giving: Hudai Foundation says it distributed 1,500 cows to Muslim families nationwide, supporting over 30,000 people with festive meat and relief. Fire Safety in Schools: GNFS is pushing “Catch Them Young” by partnering with education authorities and MMDAs to teach children fire prevention and emergency response. Education Crunch: Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu tells Parliament Ghana needs at least 50,000 more teachers, even as 7,000 are being recruited. Eye Health Check: A free screening in Wa found only 98 of 1,123 children had normal eyesight, with most needing treatment or glasses. Sports Trafficking Watch: The Gender Minister urges sports bodies to tighten accountability and recruitment to stop fake contracts and scholarships abroad. Anti-LGBTQ+ Law: Parliament passed the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, with debate over exemptions and next steps for President Mahama’s assent. Legal Rights Concern: A lawyer says a US deportation batch sent to Ghana included someone with deportation protections. Domestic Violence Shelter: Government commissioned a new shelter for survivors, positioning it as a refuge for dignity and recovery. Water Crisis: Gbestile residents protest a seven-month shortage, warning of wider action if supply isn’t restored soon.