Opioid crisis
An escalating opioid epidemic is sweeping across Ghana, affecting more young individuals who abuse the substance commonly referred to as "Red." Alarming clips circulating on social platforms show youths experiencing extreme discomfort following their use of these substances, typically driven by the desire for increased stamina during arduous tasks or swayed by friends' influence. According to interviews conducted by RFI, participants like 20-year-old Ekow Annan hailing from the Western Region and Charles Manu from Koforidua admitted to relying heavily on opioids either to manage work-related stressors or improve physical capabilities during intimate encounters.
Medical professionals are voicing concerns about serious adverse reactions associated with this habit, including fits, mental health downturns, and intellectual decline. Dr. Kwabena Ofori at the Presbyterian Hospital located in Dormaa Ahenkro warned that illegal trafficking via seaports and unauthorized channels has contributed significantly to the surge, compounded further due to inadequate oversight mechanisms currently in place. He explained: “The presence of irregular neural activities can trigger convulsions; additionally, one might encounter emotional instability, heightened worry levels, depressive states along with challenges related to focus retention, recollection impairments, and impaired judgment.”
Gold reserves surge
In just under two years, Ghana’s officially reported gold reserves have surged fourfold, hitting 31.37 metric tons by April 2025, compared to 8.78 metric tons back in May 2023, as stated by the Bank of Ghana. This significant increase can be traced to an intentional move towards broadening foreign reserves and decreasing reliance on conventional currencies, according to Citinewsroom. A key factor behind this growth is the GoldBod programme launched during President John Dramani Mahama's tenure, which secured pledges from prominent mining companies to allocate 20% of their production for domestic markets. By adopting these measures, Ghana—Africa's top gold-producing nation—is bolstering its economic resilience via an ambitious approach to expanding its reserves.
Banking sector staff fraud
The most recent fraud report published by the Bank of Ghana highlights a concerning pattern: In 2024, 155 banking personnel were fired due to fraudulent activity, involving a total of 365 individuals. There was also a rise in reported fraud instances within both banks and Special Deposit-Taking Institutions (SDIs), increasing to 16,733 cases—a jump of 5% compared to the previous year—with these occurrences carrying significant financial risk amounting to almost GH¢99 million.
In their findings, the central bank commented, “Prolonged judicial processes frequently dissuade organisations from taking action, leading to minimal success rates in recovering lost assets.” Furthermore, they pointed out that this suggests some involved parties may be acquitted or receive lighter penalties, according to Business Insider Africa’s summary. The report emphasises criticism towards the slow-moving justice system which hinders efforts to reclaim misappropriated funds. It calls for stricter consequences and a firm stance against such acts through promoting a zero-tolerance policy toward fraudulent behaviour.
The visa-free travel arrangement between Ghana and Algeria
Ghana and Algeria have entered into a visa-free travel agreement designed to enhance collaboration and rejuvenate their longstanding diplomatic relations. This arrangement was finalized when Ghana’s Foreign Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa visited Algiers officially. During his trip, discussions were held regarding advancements in areas such as education, security, and commerce, according to Business Insider Africa. Key conversations took place with Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune and Foreign Minister Ahmed Attaf. Among the proposals put forward were plans for non-stop flights linking Accra and Algiers, increased scholarship opportunities in technology-focused disciplines, and the resumption of Joint Economic Cooperation dialogues.
Unconventional exports expected to reach $10 Billion
President Mahama has made a significant economic push with the launch of the Accelerated Export Development Committee (AEDC). This initiative aims to boost Ghana’s annual revenue from non-traditional exports from $3.5 billion to an ambitious $10 billion by 2030. By focusing on transforming the country’s approach to exporting, the AEDC plans to reduce reliance on basic raw commodities like gold, cocoa, cashew, and timber, which currently dominate Ghana’s market offerings primarily in unprocessed form.
"As things stand now, our exports predominantly consist of low-value raw materials," stated President Mahama. "This needs to be transformed."
The committee’s main objectives involve enhancing port facilities and implementing coordinated strategies through the framework provided by the National Export Development Strategy, according to Citinewsroom.
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