Politics & Diplomacy
President Mahama in Zambia: President John Dramani Mahama has arrived in Zambia for a three-day State Visit. He is scheduled to address the Zambian National Assembly, focusing on shifting Africa’s narrative from “aid to investment.”
The Kotoka Renaming Debate: The proposal to rename Kotoka International Airport (KIA) continues to dominate airwaves. While supporters argue for de-linking the airport from a coup figure, Minority Leader Afenyo-Markin has publicly opposed the move, defending Kotoka’s legacy. Highlife legend Stonebwoy also weighed in, urging a focus on “national interest.”
NIB Scholarship Probe:
The National Intelligence Bureau (NIB) has been directed to investigate allegations involving a GH¢100k scholarship bribe claim made by the former NEIP CEO, sparking concerns over transparency in the Scholarship Secretariat.
📉 Economy & Business
Inflation Hits New Low: The Ghana Statistical Service (GSS) reported a significant drop in inflation to 19.7% for January 2026 (some reports citing even lower adjusted figures of 3.8% since the 2021 rebasing), the lowest in years. This is being hailed as a sign of macroeconomic stability.
Interest Rates Falling: The Ghana Reference Rate for February has declined to 14.58%. This follows the Bank of Ghana’s recent cut to the policy rate (now at 15.5%), signaling a potential relief for borrowers and businesses.
Cedi Pressures: Despite positive inflation news, the Cedi is facing “retail pressure,” with a widening gap between official Bank of Ghana rates and forex bureau prices, where the USD is selling as high as GH¢12.10.
🏥 Society & Environment
Water Shortages: Ghana Water Limited (GWL) has warned of a 130 million gallon daily shortfall. Maintenance at the Kpeve Headworks today will also interrupt supply to the Ho Township and surrounding areas in the Volta Region.
Illegal Mining (Galamsey): The Chief Justice, Justice Gertrude Torkornoo, has issued fresh warnings regarding rising Chinese involvement in illegal mining. Meanwhile, the Lands Minister reported the successful reclamation of 320 hectares of galamsey-ravaged land.
⚽ Sports & Entertainment
World Cup Transparency: Sports Minister Kofi Adams has pledged full transparency regarding the Black Stars’ 2026 World Cup budget, promising to disclose all supporter logistics and funding details to avoid past controversies.
IShowSpeed’s Visit: Global streamer IShowSpeed continues to trend after his “Ghana vs. Nigeria Jollof” taste test, which sparked a massive (and friendly) social media rivalry between the two nations.
Samini’s New Album: Reggae-Dancehall legend Samini has confirmed the release of his eighth studio album, ORIGIN8A, set for February 12.
