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May 9, 2026
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WHO monitors rare hantavirus outbreak aboard cruise ship; three dead
Policy
Key Points
- The WHO is closely monitoring a rare hantavirus outbreak aboard a Dutch-flagged cruise ship, with seven cases and three deaths reported among passengers and crew.
- The vessel departed Argentina on April 1, 2026, with 147 people from 23 nationalities, traveling through remote regions including Antarctica and several islands.
- Hantavirus infections have led to severe respiratory illness and deaths, with one patient critically ill in South Africa and three others with mild symptoms still on board.
- An international coordinated response involving multiple countries (Cabo Verde, Netherlands, South Africa, Spain, UK) is underway for epidemiological investigations, testing, and contact tracing.
- Hantavirus is a zoonotic disease primarily acquired through contact with infected rodents, with no approved antiviral treatment or vaccine, though early supportive care can improve survival.
Why This Matters
While Ghana is not directly involved in this specific outbreak, the incident highlights the critical importance of robust public health surveillance and preparedness for emerging infectious diseases. As a country with international ports and a significant travel industry, Ghana needs strong border health controls and rapid response mechanisms to prevent the importation and spread of such global health threats, protecting its population and economic activities from potential disruptions.
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July 9, 2026
Eastern Corridor Road to undergo full asphalt reconstruction, not patch repairs – Roads Minister
- The Minister for Roads and Highways announced a full reconstruction of sections of the Eastern Corridor Road.
- The government will now use asphalt pavement instead of continuing with temporary patch repairs on the existing surface-dressed road.
- This decision follows technical assessments revealing the corridor has exceeded its design life and requires a more permanent solution.
- The reconstruction involves replacing the road base and applying a stronger asphalt surface to ensure lasting value and durability.
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July 9, 2026
Ibrahim Mahama to pay hospital bills of Ghana’s tallest man battling gigantism
- Businessman Ibrahim Mahama has pledged to fully cover the medical expenses of Abdul-Samed Sulemana, known as Awuche, Ghana's tallest man.
- Awuche's health deteriorated due to gigantism complications, leading to a referral to Tamale Teaching Hospital.
- Doctors at TTH recommended amputation of Awuche's left leg due to a severe infection.
- Ibrahim Mahama's aide confirmed the commitment, assuring coverage of all medical costs and surgery.
- Awuche has safely arrived at Tamale Teaching Hospital and has commenced the necessary medical procedures.
July 9, 2026
75 Bank staff dismissed as fraud cases surge 48% – Bank of Ghana report
- Fraud cases in Ghana's financial sector surged by 48% in 2025, reaching 24,778, according to the Bank of Ghana's report.
- This increase was predominantly driven by the Payment Service Providers (PSPs) sector, which saw a 98% rise in incidents and a 95% increase in value at risk.
- While banks and Specialised Deposit-Taking Institutions (SDIs) reduced incident numbers, their value at risk increased due to specific issues like cash suppression and forgery.
- The total value at risk across the financial sector marginally rose from GH¢99 million in 2024 to GH¢101 million in 2025.
- The Bank of Ghana calls for unified efforts from all stakeholders, enhanced regulatory frameworks, and improved supervision to combat evolving fraud risks in the increasingly complex financial landscape.