Eric Kwaku Gyimah is leading a movement in Accra, Ghana, to transform discarded shipping containers into eco-friendly homes as a solution to the country's housing crisis. With approximately six million people in urgent need of housing, Gyimah's venture, IWoodz Creation, offers affordable and sustainable living options. Despite some criticism regarding the long-term viability and integration into urban planning, the initiative has gained traction, providing homes, offices, and stores. Gyimah is also exploring ways to use these container homes to aid flood victims, aiming to create resilient and hopeful living spaces for displaced individuals.

Stephen Ayesu Ntim, recently elected as the national chairman of Ghana's ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), has a long history of political involvement, having faced four electoral defeats before securing his current position. Known for his resilience and commitment to the party, Ntim aims to unify the NPP and address internal differences. His career spans roles in engineering, corporate leadership, and social services, with a notable anti-LGBTQ+ stance. Ntim's leadership extends to the Lands Commission, where he focuses on digital transformation for land services in Ghana.

The Tema Oil Refinery (TOR) in Ghana has denied allegations of a potential takeover by the Chinese-owned Sentuo Oil Refinery Ltd, following claims by ASEPA's executive director Mensah Thompson. The allegations, based on a whistleblower alert, suggested a secret meeting discussing the sale of TOR. TOR refuted these claims, emphasizing its transparency and commitment to independent management. The refinery has faced operational challenges since an explosion in 2017, with calls from the Institute for Energy Security for government intervention to prevent its collapse.

Satellite imagery indicates Russia is expanding its military base in Mali, with construction at a former Wagner Group site. Despite founder Yevgeny Prigozhin's death, Russia continues to strengthen its presence in Mali and the region. The 'African Legion' has replaced Wagner, comprising former operatives to protect Russian interests. Russia's military support in West Africa and energy deals with Mali, including nuclear and solar projects, demonstrate its commitment to influence in Africa.

A lawsuit has been filed against former Ghanaian president and presidential contender John Dramani Mahama, aiming to disqualify him from the 2024 ballot due to alleged constitutional violations regarding presidential term limits. The legal action is led by Ken Kuranchie, a journalist, lawyer, and member of the ruling New Patriotic Party. This follows a previous unsuccessful attempt by Kuranchie, which was dismissed by the Supreme Court for non-compliance with court rules.

Ghana's Ministry of Finance has warned President Nana Akufo-Addo of the financial risks associated with an anti-LGBTQ+ bill, including a potential $3.8bn loss in World Bank funding. The bill, which has been approved by lawmakers and includes harsh jail sentences for LGBTQ+ individuals, has been met with international criticism. Uganda's experience with similar legislation resulted in being removed from a US trade pact and a halt in World Bank financing. Ghana, currently under a $3bn IMF loan program, could face economic instability if the bill leads to the loss of World Bank support.

Ghana's national football team, the Black Stars, is seen as a potential unifying force ahead of the 2024 elections, with the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) serving as a platform for national cohesion. Despite past challenges and current economic difficulties, there is optimism that success in the tournament could reignite national pride and unity. Key figures, including President Nana Akufo-Addo and Sports Minister Mustapha Ussif, emphasize the team's role in transcending political and regional divides. The article highlights the broader significance of football in Ghanaian society, as the nation hopes for a successful AFCON campaign to boost morale and unity.

Ghana's ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) is experiencing a significant shakeup with over 10% of its lawmakers, including prominent figures like Majority Leader Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, choosing not to run in the upcoming parliamentary primaries. This has raised concerns about the party's prospects in the 2024 general election and the potential loss of institutional memory. Internal tensions and criticism of President Nana Akufo-Addo's government, particularly regarding the economic crisis and calls for the dismissal of Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta, have contributed to the situation. Some departing legislators are believed to have been pressured to leave for supporting Alan Kyerematen, a former presidential candidate. The NPP denies orchestrating any plan to prevent lawmakers from contesting the primaries. The political exodus is not limited to the NPP, as the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) also saw at least 13 legislators lose their bids to run in the 2024 polls. The high cost of campaigning and the influence of money in politics are cited as contributing factors to the changing legislative landscape.

Ghana is set to experience a pivotal year in 2024, with critical decisions and events poised to influence its economic and political landscape. Key developments and stakeholder positions will be crucial in shaping the country's trajectory.

In Ghana, attacks on journalists have surged ahead of the 2024 general elections, with threats, physical assaults, and cyber-attacks becoming more frequent. Investigative journalist Edward Adeti has been in hiding since exposing corruption in 2019. The Ghana Journalists Association reported 45 attacks on journalists from 2019 to 2023, including the murder of Ahmed Suale. Despite government assurances, many attacks remain uninvestigated, leading to a decline in press freedom rankings. The situation has forced some journalists to leave the profession, raising concerns about the impact on democratic processes and media coverage of the upcoming elections.