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July 29, 2026
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Mining firms in Bono given 3 August deadline to submit operational licences as Atronie River pollution sparks urgent action
Policy
Key Points
- The Bono Regional Coordinating Council (RCC) has issued a directive requiring all mining companies in the region to submit their operational licenses and permits for verification by 3 August 2026.
- This action follows widespread public concern and a viral video highlighting alleged pollution of the Atronie River by illegal mining activities.
- The RCC has initiated a coordinated crackdown, instructing the EPA and Water Resources Commission to identify legal mining firms and tasking District Assemblies to deploy Blue Water Guards.
- Measures also include ensuring armed security personnel employed by mining firms are duly authorized and pushing for expanded operations of the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS).
- The Council plans to engage the Bono Regional House of Chiefs to caution traditional leaders against involvement in practices that threaten environmental sustainability.
Why This Matters
This directive is significant for Ghana as it represents a concrete step by a regional authority to combat illegal mining (galamsey), a persistent national challenge. It underscores the government's commitment to protecting vital water bodies and natural resources, which are crucial for public health, agriculture, and long-term environmental sustainability across the country. The coordinated approach involving multiple agencies and traditional leaders demonstrates a robust effort to enforce environmental regulations and restore public confidence in governance.
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July 29, 2026
Ghanaian filmmaker Benard Agorsor wins Ohio University Research & Creative Activity expo
- Ghanaian filmmaker Mr. Benard Agorsor won the 2026 Ohio University's Research and Creative Expo.
- His winning entry, "MFUMU (King)," is a narrative short film exploring neocolonialism, self-discovery, and cultural reconnection.
- The film follows an African-American man's journey to reclaim suppressed royal heritage, using a "Tribal Figure" as a visual metaphor.
- Agorsor's accompanying research examines how the film's corporate-engineered conflict reflects historical exploitation across Africa.
- Mr. Agorsor is an experienced filmmaker, cinematographer, photographer, and educator with an MFA from Ohio University and an undergraduate degree from the University of Cape Coast, Ghana.
July 29, 2026
Iran to get Chinese shoulder-launched missile systems in weeks, sources say
- Iran is expected to receive 300-400 Chinese-made shoulder-fired air-defence missile launchers (MANPADS) within weeks.
- The deal, valued at $60-70 million, involves Chinese-made QW-12 and FN-16 missiles to bolster Iran's short-range air defenses.
- A Hong Kong-based company, Zhongqing Baoshang International Investment, is reportedly mediating the purchase.
- This procurement aims to address gaps in Iran's air defense capabilities exposed during recent conflicts with the U.S. and Israel.
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July 28, 2026
Passengers’ concerns noted, but operators cannot run at losses – GRTCC
- The Ghana Road Transport Coordinating Council (GRTCC) has deemed a proposed 30% increase in transport fares as excessive.
- The GRTCC acknowledges the necessity of some fare adjustment due to rising fuel prices, suggesting a 20% or slightly higher increase would be justifiable.
- Fuel is identified as the primary factor influencing transport fare adjustments, with a 10% increase in fuel prices triggering discussions for reviews.
- The GRTCC emphasizes the need to balance passenger concerns with the sustainability of transport operators' businesses.
- The council plans to engage transport operators to understand the basis of the proposed 30% increase before any final decision is made.