Black Stars: I won’t be upset if I don’t start – Benjamin Asare

October 10, 2026

• Government plans to recruit 16,500 health professionals in 2026 to address staffing gaps.
• Financial clearance has been secured to ensure timely payment for all new recruits.
• The initiative aims to tackle unemployment among trained professionals and the migration of skilled workers.
• Retention strategies beyond recruitment include improving working environments and quality of life factors like housing and security.
• The Labour Ministry is pursuing reforms to strengthen labour market governance and improve working conditions.

October 10, 2026

• The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) investigated allegations of extortion involving Customs officers at Accra International Airport after a passenger, Gifty Osei Bonsu, was assessed GH¢807.68 in customs duty.
• Preliminary investigations revealed a temporary system failure prevented the immediate issuance of an official receipt for the duty paid on 20 pairs of new shoes, nine dresses, 18 shirts, and four wigs.
• Ms. Bonsu deposited GH¢800, and the remaining GH¢7.68 was covered by the officers personally, with the full assessed duty later paid into GRA’s revenue account at Ecobank Ghana Limited.
• The GRA apologized for the inconvenience and delay, affirming the transaction was in good faith and the duty duly accounted for.
• The Authority has introduced alternative procedures for system interruptions, begun reviewing standard operating procedures for officer engagement, and is developing improved passenger-facing processes for transparency and clarity.

October 9, 2026

• A National Conference on Housing Finance 2026 communiqué has been adopted, committing various stakeholders to improve access to affordable housing in Ghana.
• The National Housing Fund (NHF) is tasked with coordinating implementation, promoting innovation, developing risk-sharing mechanisms, and establishing a national homebuyers database.
• Government, financial institutions, housing developers (GREDA), and labour organizations have pledged specific actions, including mobilizing private investment and advocating for inclusive policies.
• GREDA committed to using local materials, improving efficiency, and promoting green building practices to reduce housing costs.
• The initiative aims to address Ghana's estimated 1.8 million housing deficit and tackle challenges like rapid urbanization and rising construction costs.