AGP Executive Report

World Cup Shock in Kansas City: Colombia edged Ghana 1-0 in the World Cup Round of 32, with Jhon Arias scoring early off a Luis Suárez cross, sending Los Cafeteros into the last-16 against Switzerland. Injury Scare for Both Sides: Jhon Córdoba and Marvin Senaya were forced off in the opening stages, with Ghana making early changes as Lawrence Ati-Zigi returned in goal. Ghana’s Knockout Mindset: Captain Jordan Ayew said the team is focused on making Ghanaians proud after deadly Accra floods, turning sympathy into motivation for the match. Accra Flood Toll Rises: Ghana’s flood death toll climbed to 34 as recovery continues, with officials still verifying missing persons and reporting major displacement across regions. Security Outlook: AFRICOM’s commander warned that lasting peace must be African-led, citing evolving threats from the Sahel to the Gulf of Guinea.

Accra Flood Response: The FDA warns residents not to eat or distribute any food recovered from June 29 floodwaters, citing contamination risks like cholera and dysentery. Drain-Clearing Push: NADMO and Zoomlion have intensified drain-clearing and desilting under the “No Do No Do” campaign, while AMA begins a week-long clean-up and sets Saturday for National Sanitation Day. Flood Planning Accountability: GARID says encroachment is worsening flooding, flagging that 16% of drainage buffer zones in Greater Accra have been lost to development, including cases like a filling station “directly on the water body” at Oyarifa. Power Disruption in Tema: ECG says a network fault caused a power outage in parts of Tema and engineers are working to restore supply. Economy Watch: Ghana’s inflation rose to 5.3% in June as fuel-driven transport costs, rent and school fees climbed. World Cup Focus: Ghana’s Black Stars face Colombia in the Round of 32 in Kansas City, with captain Jordan Ayew urging sharp finishing as Africa chases more places in the last 16.

World Cup Knockout Focus: Ghana’s Black Stars fly into Kansas City for the Round of 32 clash with Colombia, with captain Jordan Ayew promising a fearless, disciplined display to “make Africa and Ghana proud,” while coach Carlos Queiroz insists there’s “no room for mistakes” and says 25 of 26 players are fit, with Kojo Oppong Peprah ruled out. Match Build-Up: Colombia coach Nestor Lorenzo says the tie is “anybody’s game,” with Ghana’s approach still unclear, and odds keep Ghana as underdogs. Injury & Team News: Antoine Semenyo and Jerome Opoku are reported match-fit, but Ghana must reshuffle defensively. Local Security: In Ashanti Region, police arrested 24 suspects in an intelligence-led anti-crime operation, seizing guns and ammunition. Diplomacy: Ghana and South Africa trade accusations over the killing of a Ghanaian migrant in Cape Town, with Pretoria rejecting claims of xenophobic protest links. Cocoa Payments: COCOBOD releases GH¢2.6bn to licensed buying companies to clear cocoa farmer arrears, lifting total 2025/26 disbursements above GH¢34.5bn. Flood Aftermath: Reports say torrential rains across West Africa have killed dozens, including 12 in Ghana, as evacuation and rescue efforts continue.

Auditor-General Sworn In: President Mahama has sworn in Dr. Pamela Graham as Ghana’s Auditor-General, urging independence and strict protection of the public purse. Accra Flood Fallout: ACPSEA and MPs are calling for stronger, long-term flood preparedness as Odawna traders and garages report major losses—one trader says 15 shops were destroyed and another says 1,000 vehicles were submerged, with apprentices at risk. Flood Misinformation: GES has debunked viral claims that floodwaters destroyed WASSCE papers. Court Update—SkyTrain: Accra High Court dismissed a “no case” submission in the $2m Accra SkyTrain trial, ordering former GIIF officials Solomon Asamoah and Prof. Ameyaw-Akumfi to open their defence. South Africa-Ghana Row: South Africa rejects Ghana’s claim of a xenophobic killing in Cape Town, saying the case is being investigated as extortion-related murder, even as Ghana demands justice. Health Watch: GHS is intensifying disease surveillance in flood areas to prevent outbreaks. Parliament & Aviation: Parliament ratified air services agreements with six countries to boost connectivity. World Cup Focus: Ghana’s Black Stars continue preparations for the Colombia clash in Kansas City.

Xenophobia & Safety: Ghana condemned the killing of a Ghanaian man in South Africa during anti-immigration protests and urged arrests and prosecution, as Ghana also steps up voluntary repatriation after more than 900 citizens were evacuated. Accra Flood Crisis: Flooding debate keeps heating up: Hajia Charity Rahinatu Asoemah blamed years of drainage neglect and questioned use of World Bank funds, while Henry Quartey warned the problem is now a national security issue and says enforcement must be sustained; Parliament is also urged to probe and fund flood control. Inflation Watch: Ghana’s inflation rose to 5.3% in June, driven mainly by non-food and locally produced items. World Cup 2026: Ghana’s Black Stars press on for the Colombia clash in the Round of 32, with preparations intensifying and French referee Clement Turpin set to officiate. Economy & Business: Absa Bank Ghana begins operating from its new Ridge head office, and Ghana Digital Centres reports flood losses after heavy rains disrupted operations for 23 businesses. Security Outlook: Prof. Kwesi Aning says Sahel instability is reshaping trade and movement, while Ghana’s security chiefs warn threats are shifting from the Sahel to the Gulf of Guinea.

Accra Flood Crisis: Torrential rains have left at least 12 dead and over 38,000 displaced across Greater Accra, with seven still missing, as President Mahama approved GH¢300m for emergency relief and ordered stronger rescue and drainage actions. Public Health Response: The Health Ministry is deploying public health nurses to flood-hit communities to prevent waterborne and vector-borne diseases, while MoH teams assess sanitation risks and CHPS facilities like Odawna appeal for urgent support after equipment and records were destroyed. Accountability Push: Parliament’s Minority is demanding a parliamentary probe into government flood preparedness, while critics including Titus Glover and Dr. Kpessa-Whyte’s camp argue the disaster is preventable and worsened by weak planning and enforcement. Cost of Living Politics: Akuapim North MP Sammi Awuku questions new electricity and water tariff increases despite claims of economic improvement. Finance & Markets: Inflation rose to 5.3% in June, the Ghana Reference Rate climbed to 10.59% for July, and BoG reports 73% compliance with sustainable banking principles. Gold Sector Update: GoldBod begins a new LBMA-based AM/PM pricing regime for gold purchases. World Cup Focus: Black Stars captain Jordan Ayew urges Ghana to be more clinical as they prepare for the Round of 32 against Colombia.

Flood Disaster in Accra and Ivory Coast: Days of torrential rain have left at least 24 dead across Ghana and Ivory Coast, with Accra and Tema hit hardest as roads and homes were submerged and rescue teams struggled to reach stranded residents. Flood Response and Accountability: President Mahama ordered GH¢300m for relief and mitigation, while Parliament and the Council of State urged stronger prevention; opposition MPs are pushing for investigations into the flood response and past failures. Health Warning: Ghana Health Service and the Ministry of Health are stepping up disease prevention as floodwater raises cholera and other waterborne risks, urging safe water, hygiene, and food safety. Power and Services: ECG says electricity has been restored to most Greater Accra areas, with faults being fixed where flooding remains. Digital and Policy Moves: NITA unveiled its Ghana Electronic Document Wallet (GEDW) for secure identity verification; Bank of Ghana launched a Sustainable Finance Roadmap to embed climate risk and ESG across finance. Sports: Marvin Senaya topped World Cup tackle rankings for Ghana as the Black Stars prepare for the Round of 32 vs Colombia.

Flood Disaster in Accra: Torrential rains have pushed the death toll from Accra flooding to at least 12, with emergency crews rescuing hundreds and warning the number could rise as people remain missing. Government Response: President John Mahama has ordered the immediate release of GHS 300m for relief and flood mitigation, while security agencies and the military join rescue operations. Politics vs Solutions: Opposition and government figures are trading blame, but Bawumia and others are calling for a united, long-term national fix beyond party lines. Accountability and Planning: Housing and environmental voices are demanding action against officials who approved development on waterways, with calls to strengthen development control and sanitation enforcement. World Cup Focus: As Ghana prepares for the Round of 32 clash with Colombia in Kansas City, Sports Minister Kofi Adams says government will keep players focused, while the Black Stars send solidarity messages to flood victims. Finance Sector Coordination: Bank of Ghana Governor Johnson Asiama urges regulators to align on sustainable finance as climate risks cut across the whole system.

Accra Flood Disaster: Torrential rains have submerged parts of Accra, killing at least three people in Alajo after electrocution, with more deaths reported and many residents trapped; President John Dramani Mahama blames extreme rainfall and climate trends but also points to blocked waterways and human activity, while government teams step up rescue and relief across Accra and Tema. Flood Response & Safety: Interior and Works officials urge residents to stay away from floodwaters and work from home as NADMO, police, marine police and the military evacuate victims; GNFS says access problems delayed firefighting during the Circle–Odawna blaze, and calls for fully equipped rescue boats. World Cup—Ghana vs Colombia: The GFA has set Round of 32 ticket prices for Ghana’s clash with Colombia in Kansas City, with Carlos Queiroz saying Antoine Semenyo’s knock is not serious; Ghana fans and Colombian communities are gearing up for Friday’s knockout match. Diplomacy & Community: Switzerland marks National Day in Accra with a reception honoring outgoing Ambassador Simone Giger, while YFM’s Erskine Whyte is selected for a German visitors programme. Sports & Society: Jonas Adjetey defends Ghana supporters amid criticism, saying players understand the pressure fans feel.

Flood Crisis in Accra: Heavy rains have left parts of the capital underwater, with rescues underway in areas like Adabraka, Kaneshie, Mallam, Spintex and Achimota; the Interior Minister and NADMO urge residents to stay put/work from home, while GRIDCo and ECG shut down Mallam and Achimota substations to prevent power disasters and GMet warns more rain and thunderstorms. Human Cost and Safety Alerts: Reports include at least one death from electrocution in Alajo, trapped residents in a flooded church in Alajo, and fears after fuel leaked into floodwater near the Circle–Caprice corridor. Government Response: Greater Accra’s Regional Minister orders MMDCEs to intensify rescue and evacuation, as security agencies and the Ghana Armed Forces join operations. Energy Update: President Mahama says new commitments of $3.5bn will lift oil output, with Jubilee rising from 60,000 to 85,000 bpd. Rail Transparency Row: The NPP questions the government’s purchase of refurbished diesel locomotives and freight wagons, demanding full disclosure on age, costs and remaining service life. World Cup Off-Field: Sports Minister Kofi Adams urges Canada to reconsider Thomas Partey’s visa denial. Finance Watch: Ghana’s T-bills drew strong demand, oversubscribing by 31% as yields climbed.

Black Stars World Cup: Carlos Queiroz called Ghana’s 2-1 loss to Croatia a lesson, not a failure, after the Black Stars still reached the Round of 32 and will face Colombia in Kansas City. Match build-up: Antoine Semenyo said Ghana must defend as a team for 90 minutes, while Derrick Luckassen admitted disappointment despite scoring on debut. World Cup debate: Queiroz also blasted the 48-team expansion as “vulgar and ordinary,” arguing “money talks.” Accra waste crisis: Residents in Jamestown and Laterbiokoshie say waste collection has stalled for weeks as landfill capacity pressures grow, leaving heaps and bush dumping. School feeding reform: A call to go beyond the GH¢1.50 to GH¢2.00 grant increase urges a shift toward central kitchens and public-private delivery. Public sector pay: Ghana’s new pay policy is expected to be passed by October 2026 to replace ad hoc wage hikes with a rules-based system. Lithium governance: NRGI warns corruption risks could threaten benefits from Ghana’s lithium value chain. U-17 scouting: Ghana’s U-17 talent ID continues in the Western and Western North, starting June 29 in Juaboso and moving to Takoradi July 1.

World Cup Round of 32: Ghana’s Black Stars bowed 2-1 to Croatia in Philadelphia but still booked a last-32 spot as one of the best third-placed teams. Croatia’s Petar Sucic and Nikola Vlašić did the damage after Derrick Luckassen levelled for Ghana, and coach Carlos Queiroz said the real test starts now as Ghana face Colombia. Coaching & format debate: Queiroz also hit out at FIFA’s 48-team expansion, calling it “vulgar and ordinary” and arguing that easier qualification drains the World Cup’s value. Match build-up: Ghana’s Thomas Partey is expected to be available for the Colombia clash, while Croatia captain Luka Modrić said the win should build momentum. Local governance & infrastructure: President Mahama inspected key Central Region road projects under the “Big Push,” targeting better access for farming and fishing communities. Media freedom: The Ghana Journalists Association condemned an alleged Kasoa radio attack, demanding a transparent police probe and protection for journalists. Workplace safety: A former GRIDCo CEO urged stronger HESS laws and a safety-first culture to cut industrial injuries and deaths. Internet disruption: MTN Ghana said subsea cable damage off Abidjan is disrupting internet and data services across Ghana and parts of West Africa.

World Cup Knockouts (Ghana): Ghana’s Black Stars may have lost 2-1 to Croatia in rain-soaked Philadelphia, but they still booked a Round of 32 spot for the first time since 2010. Match Recap: Petar Sučić scored for Croatia in the 31st minute, Derrick Luckassen equalised in the 73rd after a VAR check, then Nikola Vlašić headed in the winner in the 83rd. Next Opponent: Ghana will face Colombia in the knockout stage in Kansas City on July 3/4 (depending on local time), after Colombia topped Group K with a 0-0 draw against Portugal. Coach Talk: Carlos Queiroz said the expanded 48-team format makes the World Cup “vulgar and ordinary,” arguing qualification value is diluted. Local Interest: Ghana Navy honoured its first Commanding Officer by naming the Sekondi Naval Shipyard Slipway after Commander John Arthur Kofi Adiku (Rtd). Health (Education): Ghana also secured PhD scholarships for over 30 nursing tutors to strengthen specialist training.

World Cup Knockout Race: Ghana’s Black Stars have officially booked a Round of 32 spot after their 0-0 draw with England, and now face Croatia in a winner-takes-all Group L finale in Philadelphia (5pm ET/FS1). Ghana can progress with a draw, while Croatia need a win to secure passage, with seeding and possible Round of 32 opponents still on the line. Trade & Investment: GEPA has opened the Ghana Trade House in Philadelphia, Ghana’s first dedicated commercial foothold on the US East Coast, offering export matchmaking, market intelligence, investment promotion and AGOA guidance. Food Safety Push: Editors in Accra are being urged to champion mandatory front-of-pack warning labels on processed foods as experts link ultra-processed diets to rising child diabetes and hypertension. Education Governance: GTEC has questioned the dismissal of Bolgatanga Technical University’s Vice Chancellor, Samuel Erasmus Alnaa, asking whether proper procedures were followed. Healthcare Support: MTN Ghana says it will provide 3,888 hospital beds to tackle the “no bed syndrome.” Flood Relief & Infrastructure: Parliament hears Odaw River dredging is expected to be completed by December 2027 to help reduce Accra flooding.

World Cup Knockout Race: England, Portugal, Ghana, Egypt and Paraguay booked spots in the last 32 after Friday’s results, setting up a winner-takes-all Group L finale in Philadelphia. Ghana vs Croatia Build-Up: Carlos Queiroz says Ghana will play to win, not “survive,” as the Black Stars chase qualification against Croatia; Antoine Semenyo also urged the team to be more aggressive with referees after VAR failed to review a penalty claim in the 0-0 draw with England. Croatia’s Confidence: Ivan Perišić points to Croatia’s strong record against African teams, while Croatia coach Zlatko Dalić admits they must raise their level. Accra-Linked Off-Field Buzz: A heated debate erupted after British streamer AngryGinge confronted an alleged racist during England vs Ghana. Local Security: Ghana Police arrested multiple drug suspects in Kumasi, recovering cannabis, suspected cocaine and other narcotics in intelligence-led raids. Diplomacy & Development: President Mahama broke ground for the expansion of the Chinese-built Sentuo oil refinery in Tema, and began a Central Region “Resetting Ghana” tour.

Digital Economy Finance: The Ministry of Communication is in talks with Development Bank Ghana to back startups with long-term, innovation-sensitive capital and stronger mentorship, not just loans. Disability Rights: Parliament is set to review Ghana’s disability law, with Dr Clement Apaak pushing reforms on accessibility, opportunities and enforcement. Pharma Push: Trade Ministry secured a €415,437 grant for the PharmaVax Programme to strengthen Ghana’s pharmaceutical manufacturing and exports. World Cup Stakes: Ghana’s Black Stars arrive in Philadelphia ahead of the Croatia decider, with the team aiming to finish Group L top and qualify to the Round of 32. Maritime Careers: Ghana Maritime Authority marked the Day of the Seafarer and unveiled plans to expand seafaring opportunities for youth. Gold Deal: Government says it will buy 30% of large miners’ gold output from July 1 via GoldBod to boost reserves and local refining. Flood Solutions: Asantehene urges KNUST engineers to deliver practical strategies to curb recurring flooding. Press Freedom: GJA seeks legal direction after Larry Dogbey’s contempt conviction and jail sentence. Health Taxes: VAST-Ghana recommends higher excise taxes on cigarettes and Akpeteshie to cut consumption and protect vulnerable groups.