Today Morning News & Entertainment in Ghana: The August 15, 2025 Briefing
As the nation marks Friday, August 15, 2025, the morning is characterized by a mix of solemn remembrance, significant policy announcements, and vibrant cultural stories. Here is a comprehensive roundup of the top stories covering key news and entertainment updates in Ghana, reflecting a nation grappling with loss while simultaneously pushing forward on economic and technological fronts.
National Affairs: A Day of Mourning and Key Developments
The national mood is somber, with headlines dominated by a significant state event. However, other important developments in public health and technology are also part of the latest Ghana news this morning.
State Funeral for Helicopter Crash Victims
Ghana is in a state of mourning as a solemn state funeral is held for the victims of the tragic helicopter crash that occurred on August 6. The service, held at the Black Star Square, sees the attendance of prominent figures including President Akufo-Addo, Vice President Bawumia, and former President Mahama. The nation pays its final respects to the eight fallen heroes, with six of the victims set to be buried at the Military Cemetery. Tributes have poured in from across the political spectrum and from national institutions, remembering the contributions of individuals like Dr. Omane Boamah and Alhaji Muniru Limuna.
Health Alert: First 2025 Mpox Case Confirmed
In public health news, ProMED, the global infectious disease surveillance system, has reported the first confirmed case of Mpox in Ghana for the year. The case was identified in the Western North region on Friday, August 15, 2025. Health authorities are expected to initiate contact tracing and public awareness campaigns to manage the situation.
Government Pushes for AI Readiness and Cybersecurity Reforms
The Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Hon. Samuel Nartey George, has called on government institutions to urgently enhance their Artificial Intelligence (AI) readiness and strengthen IT security protocols. Citing recent cyberattacks on government portals, the Minister announced plans for a phased AI rollout in five key ministries starting in 2026 and stressed the need for improved personal cyber hygiene among officials. This initiative aims to digitize workflows, improve efficiency, and bolster national cybersecurity.
Economy and Business News
Economic headlines are focused on consumer costs, international trade relations, and guidance from the World Bank on the country’s financial future.
- Fuel Price Adjustments: Consumers should prepare for changes at the pump, as the prices of petrol and LPG are set to increase starting August 16. However, the price of diesel is expected to see a slight decrease.
- World Bank Outlook: Recent reports from the World Bank highlight both the resilience of Ghana’s economy and persistent fiscal challenges. The institution warns that mounting debts at COCOBOD threaten the cocoa sector and flags weak labour demand as a key hurdle for the nation’s growing youth population. The Bank advises a focus on fixing the energy and cocoa sectors to protect long-term economic stability.
- New US Tariffs on Ghanaian Goods: In a significant trade development, a US White House executive order issued on July 31, 2025, has adjusted reciprocal tariff rates for multiple countries. According to the order, goods from Ghana will be subject to a 15% adjusted reciprocal tariff upon import into the United States.
Arts, Culture & Entertainment Scene
Beyond the solemn national events, the entertainment scene in Ghana and for its diaspora continues to show vibrancy on August 15, 2025, with noteworthy events in theatre, film, and music.
In the World of Theatre
Renowned actor Andrew Tandoh Adote is set to take on a role in Wole Soyinka’s classic play, ‘Death and the King’s Horseman’. This production is anticipated to be a major highlight of the Ghanaian theatre calendar.
Ghanaian Film Gains International Acclaim
Building on a successful year for the nation’s film industry, Ghana continues to celebrate the milestone achievement of its first-ever sci-fi film, “The B.A.T.U. Project: ADAM THE FIRST.” The film won three major awards, including the prestigious MiSciFi BEACON Award, at the Miami International Science Fiction Film Festival earlier in January 2025, positioning Ghana as a rising force in the global sci-fi genre.
Diaspora and Tourism Events
Several events are connecting the Ghanaian diaspora and promoting tourism back home:
- Ghana Music Festival 2025: Planning is underway for this multi-state festival in the U.S., which promises to celebrate Hiplife, Afrobeats, and Highlife music, bringing a taste of Ghanaian culture to an international audience.
- Discover Ghana Info Session: An online event is scheduled for this evening for individuals interested in culture, real estate, and adventure in Ghana, focusing on the popular “Detty December” season.
- Ministry Celebration: In the U.S., TRC Ministries is celebrating 15 years of its ministry work in Ghana with an event in Alexandria, Minnesota.
Ghanaians Abroad: An Inspiring Achievement
A heartwarming story of academic excellence comes from the United States, where Ghanaian native Elizabeth Ama Baidoo has earned her second Master of Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Nebraska at Kearney. Having already completed an MBA in finance in Ghana, her new degree focuses on human resources. Baidoo, who is inspired by her mother, a former soldier in Ghana’s military, has already secured a position as a finance coordinator and is applying to doctoral programs, determined to carry forward her family’s dreams of reaching the top.
