Kusasi Chief Shot Dead by Unknown Assailants in Ashanti Region

Naa Abdul-Malik Azenbe, the Kusasi Chief of the Ashanti Region, was tragically shot dead by unknown assailants on Tuesday night in Asawase, a suburb of Kumasi. His death has sparked heightened security concerns in the area.

According to eyewitness reports, two gunmen riding motorbikes approached the chief at close range and shot him before fleeing the scene. This sudden attack left the community in shock and mourning.

Response and Hospitalisation of the Kusasi Chief

Until his untimely death, Azenbe also served as the Kaadi Divisional Area Chief in the Binduri District of the Upper East Region, a role that added to his stature within the community.

The chief was initially rushed to the Manhyia District Hospital. Still, due to the severity of his injuries, he was transferred to the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

Abdul-Malik Azenbe – The Kusasi Chief of the Ashanti Region and the Chief of the Kadi Divisional Area in Binduri Murdered

Police Investigation

A statement from the police confirmed that investigations are underway. Ashanti Regional Police Commander, DCOP Emmanuel Teye-Cudjoe, alongside Regional Crime Officer ACP Ebenezer Boyor and a team of officers, visited the crime scene. During their inspection, they recovered two empty shells believed to be from an AK-47 assault rifle. The police assured the public that they are fully committed to identifying and apprehending those responsible for this heinous crime.

The police also called on anyone with relevant information to contact local stations or use the emergency lines: 191, 18555, and 112.

Condolences and Reassurance

Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, the Member of Parliament for Asawase, expressed his deepest condolences to the bereaved family and the Kusasi community. He condemned the attack, describing it as a blow not only to the traditional authority but also to the peace and security that all cherish.

“As we mourn, we remain resolute in our commitment to justice,” he said, assuring that security agencies are dedicated to capturing the perpetrators. He also urged residents to cooperate with the authorities during the investigation.

Mohammed-Mubarak, who also serves as the Minister for the Interior, called for unity and peace in the community, urging residents to work together to ensure justice prevails.

Increased Security

Following the attack, the Ghana Police Service has intensified security at the late chief’s residence, reassuring the local community of their safety.

On Wednesday morning, many residents and neighbours gathered at the chief’s residence to pay their respects. Family members and mourners were seen weeping uncontrollably, reflecting the deep sorrow that the community is experiencing after the tragic loss of their leader.

PURC Northern Region Achievements Highlighted in Mid-Year Report

The Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC) Northern Regional Office has reported significant achievements during the first half of 2025, marking its crucial role in resolving key utility disputes in Tamale.

Resolving Key Disputes

One of the major successes was the office’s timely intervention in restoring electricity to Sanzerigu, a community in Tamale. The area had been left without power due to a resident’s interference with the low-voltage (LV) network. The PURC swiftly addressed the issue, ensuring that residents had access to electricity again.

In another notable case, the PURC helped mediate a dispute between Ghana Water Limited (GWL) and the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS). Allegations had surfaced that GNFS was contributing to high non-revenue water losses. Through the Commission’s involvement, both parties were able to reach a consensus, securing water access and maintaining safety operations.

PURC’s Infrastructure Improvements

The PURC’s efforts also extended to enhancing the region’s utility infrastructure. The Commission facilitated the replacement of six faulty transformers and the repair and replacement of 21 broken electricity poles, including both high-tension and low-voltage ones.

These activities are part of a broader strategy aimed at improving the reliability of utility services, reducing outages, and reinforcing accountability among service providers.

Future Plans

Looking ahead, the PURC plans to intensify its efforts to combat illegal connections and expand capacity-building initiatives for stakeholders. Strengthening partnerships with service providers and the media will be crucial in raising awareness and ensuring the effective enforcement of utility regulations.

Consumer Engagement

Ali Simon Jarana, the Regional Manager, highlighted the rising awareness of consumer rights, as evidenced by the growing use of radio and social media platforms for lodging complaints.

The PURC also introduced several customer-focused initiatives, including:

Weekend Complaint Resolution Booths in Tamale and Savelugu, assisting over 50 customers with on-the-spot support.
PURC @ A Glance outreach through flyers, street activations, and TV/radio engagements.
Regulation @ A Glance sessions aimed at educating NEDCo staff, Ghana Water Limited workers, and journalists on the L.I. 2413 regulatory instrument.
The Tamale In Focus campaign focused on reducing commercial losses and tackling unauthorised electricity use.

TI Ahmadiyya SHS: Student Stabs Classmate Over Mobile Phone Dispute

A dispute over a video recording escalated into violence at TI Ahmadiyya Senior High School in Wa when a student stabbed his classmate on the night of July 22, 2025.

The Incident at TI Ahmadiyya

Iddrissu Ibrahim, a final-year student, was critically injured after being stabbed by a fellow student. Ibrahim is currently in stable but critical condition and is receiving treatment at the Wa Regional Hospital. The altercation occurred around 9 p.m. when the two students had a heated argument over a video Ibrahim allegedly recorded of the suspect.

The Dispute

Student Stabbed in Mobile Phone Dispute at TI Ahmadiyya SHS

Reports suggest that Ibrahim filmed the suspect without his knowledge. When the suspect discovered the video, he confronted Ibrahim, demanding that it be deleted. However, Ibrahim refused to delete it, ignoring the warning. This led to a physical confrontation, during which the suspect allegedly pulled out a knife and stabbed Ibrahim.

The Arrest

Following the incident, the police took swift action and arrested the suspect. The individual is currently in custody, assisting the authorities with their investigation. To ensure the situation is thoroughly investigated, the Upper West Regional Police have deployed plain-clothed officers to the school.

The police are continuing their inquiries into the matter, and further details will be shared as the investigation unfolds.

PURC’s Mechanized Boreholes Bring Relief to Bongo Dua

The Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC) has introduced mechanised boreholes at Bongo Dua Junior High School (JHS) and surrounding communities in the Bongo District, located in Ghana’s Upper East Region. This initiative aims to enhance access to clean and safe water for both the school and residents.

On July 17, 2025, Dr. Shafic Suleman, Executive Secretary of PURC, visited the newly completed facilities at Dua JHS, where he led a team to inspect the site. The project includes four mechanised boreholes connected to a 10,000-litre overhead tank, alongside five water dispensing points featuring three low taps and two overhead taps.

The new water facilities are expected to benefit over 4,500 residents, in addition to the 100 students at Dua JHS, by providing reliable access to clean water.

Dr. Suleman praised the school’s leadership for its commitment to student welfare and its ongoing dedication to maintaining the facilities. He highlighted the alignment of the project with PURC’s goal of expanding water service delivery to underserved communities, emphasising the Commission’s focus on providing sustainable and accessible water solutions to contribute to Ghana’s development.

Madam Atota Suzana, Headmistress of Dua JHS, called the intervention a game-changer, noting that it addresses long-standing issues faced by the school. “The strategically placed water sources within the school premises have improved access and fostered good hygiene practices, particularly handwashing,” she said.

Previously, students often left the school to fetch water, disrupting their classes. With water now available on-site, Madam Suzana remarked, “This has allowed students to stay focused on their studies, without unnecessary interruptions.” She assured that both staff and students would maintain the facilities to ensure their long-term use.

During his visit, Dr. Suleman and the PURC team received heartfelt appreciation from the students, who held up placards reading: “Water is life,” “He who provides water saves life,” and “Thank you for saving us from crossing the road to drink water; we are forever grateful.”

In addition to visiting the Dua JHS site, Dr. Suleman and his delegation toured other PURC interventions across the Bongo Dua community. The team included senior PURC officials such as Alhaji Jabaru Abukari, Director of Regional Operations and Consumer Services; Ing. Frederick Oblitey, Director of Energy Services and Performance Monitoring; Dr. Eric Obutey, Director of Research and Corporate Affairs; Mr. Kweku Tuffuor, Deputy Director of Northern Operations, Monitoring and Evaluation; and Dr. Robert Tia Abdulai Aziz, Head of Corporate Affairs.

PURC reiterated that this initiative is part of its broader effort to bridge the water access gaps in rural and underserved areas throughout Ghana.

Sissala West Chiefs Demand 3 Solutions for Better Telecom Services

The chiefs and residents of the Pulima Traditional Council in Sissala West District, Upper West Region, are urging Mohammed Adams Sukparu, the Deputy Minister-designate for Communication, Digital Technology, and Innovation, to focus on closing the digital gap in their communities upon his official appointment.

They are hopeful that with his leadership, the longstanding issues of network instability and digital exclusion that have affected the region can be addressed. The chiefs emphasise the need to enhance telecommunications services, improve internet connectivity, and ensure that remote areas, such as Sissala West, are integrated into Ghana’s broader digital transformation strategy.

The Pulima Traditional Council believes that better connectivity will unlock opportunities for economic empowerment, education, and improved access to digital services. In a message of congratulations dated July 21, 2025, Kuoro Osman Deiwia Nankpa III, President of the Pulima Traditional Council, not only celebrated Sukparu’s appointment but also highlighted the persistent communication challenges that continue to hinder development in the region.

Many towns and villages in Sissala West continue to experience poor mobile network coverage and unreliable internet services, which restrict the community’s access to essential services and opportunities. These issues have a direct impact on several key sectors, including agriculture, education, and healthcare.

The chiefs have noted that young people in the region are eager to adopt technology, start online businesses, and engage in digital education. Yet, without improved connectivity, these aspirations remain out of reach. They believe that Sukparu’s leadership in the ministry could bring these dreams to fruition and foster a more digitally inclusive society.

Moreover, the lack of robust communication infrastructure has had a ripple effect on the local economy. Farmers struggle to access market prices and demand information, students miss out on online learning opportunities, and healthcare providers face difficulties in coordinating emergency services, all due to the unreliable network.

With the proper focus on improving communication services, the transformation of Sissala West’s digital landscape could unlock its vast potential. The chiefs are confident that such advancements would not only enhance the quality of life for residents but also contribute significantly to national economic growth.

School for Life Launches Bright Future Readers Club at Kumbungu D/A JHS

School for Life, a non-governmental organisation, has launched a reading initiative at Kumbungu D/A Junior High School in the Northern Region. The initiative, called the Bright Future Readers Club, aims to promote reading among pupils.

The Club is expected to benefit 60 pupils in the school. It is part of efforts to improve academic performance and help learners build confidence.

During the launch, student executives were elected to lead and manage the Club’s activities. Pupils also showcased their reading and public speaking skills through poem recitations and reading sessions.

The Club is a continuation of an earlier programme by School for Life, which involved the donation of over 700 books. The donated books include storybooks, novels, and textbooks. Book Aid International supported the programme by donating reading materials.

The initiative is part of School for Life’s broader efforts to promote literacy in rural Ghana. It also supports the improvement of school libraries and encourages reading for pleasure.

Teachers at the school have welcomed the programme and expressed their readiness to support the students. The Club is expected to help learners improve their writing and speaking skills.

UNDP Launches Mentorship Programme for Female Leaders in Savannah Region

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), in partnership with the Savannah Regional Peace Council, has launched a mentorship programme in Damongo to support young women in leadership. The governments of Luxembourg and Denmark back the initiative.

The programme aims to promote gender equality and improve women’s participation in governance, peacebuilding, and decision-making roles. It was created to address the underrepresentation of women in leadership, despite their large population in Ghana.

The programme will match young women with six experienced female mentors. These mentors include Queen Mothers, former assembly members, and regional political leaders. The mentorship will last three months and focus on leadership, community service, and conflict resolution.

The Savannah Regional Peace Council aims to help young women develop the skills and confidence necessary to participate in local governance. The Council plans to expand the programme to all districts in the region and has called for more support from stakeholders.

A two-day training session was held for participants as part of the launch. The training covered key topics related to women’s leadership and participation in community development.

The Council also encouraged the media to help raise awareness about the programme and support efforts to improve women’s involvement in public life.

Participants welcomed the initiative, saying it would help them overcome personal and social challenges while building the confidence to lead.

Sissala Chiefs Set Minimum Maize Price to Support Farmers

The chiefs in the Sissala area have announced a new minimum price for maise to protect local farmers from low market prices. The decision was made by the Tumu Traditional Council and other traditional councils in Gwollu, Zini, Welembelle, Pulima, Lambussie, Bawiesebelle, Banu, Kojikperie, and Funsi.

Farmers had raised concerns about falling prices. The price of a 100kg bag of maise recently dropped from GHC 550 to as low as GHC 400. This decline made it difficult for many farmers to recover their production costs.

In response, the traditional councils consulted with major buyers, including the West African Regional Company and private dealers. A new minimum price of GHC 500 per 100kg bag of maise was agreed. This price takes effect from July 8, 2025.

The chiefs advised all farmers not to sell below this price. The goal is to stabilise farmers’ incomes, keep maise farming sustainable, and stop further losses.

Maise farming is the primary source of income in the Sissala area. Community leaders worry that many farmers may stop maise production if prices remain low.

The statement from the traditional leaders urged all buyers, farmers, and government agencies to support the decision. They stated that it was essential to protect the economy of one of Ghana’s top maise-producing regions.

Leaders of farmer groups in the area said intermediaries were taking advantage of the falling prices. They added that the Sissala area produces more than half of Ghana’s maise needs.

Farmers are calling on the government to assist with road infrastructure, farm equipment, and improved market access. They also want policies that will boost maise production for national and regional food security.

Many farmers currently have large amounts of maise in storage. Selling at current prices would lead to losses and threaten their ability to plant again.

Local farmer groups say with the proper support, the Sissala area can meet Ghana’s full maise demand.

Month: July 2025