Top trends for Thursday, January 29, 2026

Top trends for Thursday, January 29, 2026

Economy: Interest Rates Hit 4-Year Low
The Bank of Ghana (BoG) has dominated the headlines by slashing the monetary policy rate to 15.5%.

  • The Big Deal: This is a significant 250-basis-point drop and the lowest the rate has been in four years.
  • Why it Matters: It’s a signal that inflation is finally being “tamed” (now around 5.4%). For you, this usually means lower borrowing costs at banks and a push for more business growth and job creation.

🇬🇭 Entertainment: IShowSpeed Becomes Ghanaian
The popular American YouTuber IShowSpeed (Darren Watkins Jr.) is officially becoming a Ghanaian citizen.

  • The News: Following his viral “Speed Does Africa” tour, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs approved the issuance of a Ghanaian Passport to him.
  • The Context: The government cited his “irrefutable ties” and his role in promoting Ghanaian culture to his 50 million+ subscribers. This is being hailed as a win for the “Beyond the Return” initiative.

⚽ Sports: World Cup 2026 & Local Transfers
The sports scene is buzzing with preparation for both local and international stages.

  • World Cup Slots: FIFA has officially opened media accreditation for the 2026 World Cup. Ghana has been allotted 12 spots (10 for written press, 2 for photographers).
  • Youth Football: Roc Nation Sports (owned by Jay-Z) has announced the “Roc Cup,” its first-ever youth football tournament in Ghana, aiming to scout local talent.
  • Hearts of Oak: The Phobians are trending after a dominant 3–0 win over Eleven Wonders, keeping them in the title race.

🏫 General News: NOBISCO Fire
A tragic fire at Northern School of Business (NOBISCO) in Tamale has displaced about 900 students after destroying a dormitory block. There is a massive call on social media for emergency support and donations for the affected students.
🏛️ Politics in Brief

  • Third Term Talk: The Minority Leader is calling on President Mahama to publicly reject any “third-term agenda,” sparking heated debates on political talk shows.
  • State Lands: The government is moving to revoke certain Executive Instruments (EI 144) to reclaim and protect state lands from illegal acquisition.