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, the world's second-largest cocoa producer, is experiencing threats to its cocoa industry and economy from illegal mining and smuggling. Illegal mining, particularly for gold, has led to significant destruction of cocoa farms, with farmers selling land for mining due to economic hardship. Cocoa production has decreased, with the 2022-2023 crop forecast between 750,000 and 800,000 tonnes, down from one million tonnes in 2020-2021. The government has increased cocoa prices by 63 percent, but land lost to illegal mining now accounts for two percent of Ghana's total cocoa cultivation area. Smuggling also poses a problem, with Ghana losing about 150,000 metric tonnes of cocoa beans in 2022, equating to a $600-million revenue loss. The Western Region has become the main cocoa producer, but it also faces the challenge of illegal mining. The Ghana Cocoa Board is offering cash rewards for whistleblowing on illegal activities, and there are calls for the government to take immediate action to prevent further loss of land and to improve prices and living standards for farmers.

Ghana's cocoa industry, crucial for its economy, is under threat from illegal mining and smuggling. The country, a major cocoa producer, has seen a decline in production due to these activities. Illegal mining, particularly for gold, has led to the destruction of cocoa farms and loss of land, while smuggling has resulted in significant revenue loss. The government's efforts to combat these issues include increased cocoa prices and rewards for whistleblowers. However, economic challenges persist, with high inflation and public debt, as Ghana seeks a $3-billion IMF credit deal. The Western Region has become the main cocoa producer, but it also faces the growing issue of illegal mining.

Ghana, once hailed as Africa's shining star, is now facing its worst economic crisis in decades, with inflation at a 21-year high. Despite being a major exporter of cocoa and gold, the country's economy is struggling due to a variety of factors, including government complacency and a lack of investment in key sectors like agriculture. The government's decisions, such as implementing a free education program and cutting taxes, have led to a significant revenue shortfall, which was exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russia-Ukraine war. The local currency, the cedi, has depreciated, and public debt has soared. The government has taken measures such as a banking sector cleanup and a freeze on public sector hiring, but these have not been enough to prevent the need for an IMF bailout. The article discusses the impact of these economic challenges on ordinary Ghanaians and the government's efforts to stabilize the situation.

The article discusses the economic struggles faced by Ghanaians during the Christmas season, highlighting the impact of high inflation and the cost of living on traditional holiday practices. With inflation at a record 50.3%, driven by the pandemic and the war in Ukraine, many families like Florence Cudjoe's are unable to travel to the countryside and are cutting down on expenses. The World Bank notes that food costs in Ghana are the highest in sub-Saharan Africa. The economic downturn has affected holiday travel, with commercial drivers like Kojo Mintah seeing a decrease in passengers. Ghana's debt and currency devaluation are also mentioned, along with protests against the finance minister. Economist Daniel Amarteye suggests focusing on domestic production to improve the economy. President Nana Akufo-Addo remains optimistic in his Christmas address, and the government has announced austerity measures and secured a $3 billion credit arrangement with the IMF to support the economy.

The article discusses the incomplete footbridges along the Adenta-Madina highway in Accra, Ghana, which have led to increased pedestrian fatalities due to the lack of safe crossing places. After a high school student's death sparked protests, President Nana Akufo-Addo promised to resume work on the footbridges. Former roads minister Alhaji Inusah Fuseini criticized the government for not prioritizing the project. The FIA Foundation and Amend Road Safety Ghana highlighted the need for better urban planning and road safety awareness. Despite official figures, the actual number of traffic deaths is likely higher due to underreporting. Campaigners believe that with proper investment in traffic calming measures and pedestrian infrastructure, the road safety issues can be effectively addressed. Local residents have vowed to continue protesting until the footbridges are completed.