TIG Post

Tag: Germany

  • Akufo-Addo congratulates Friedrich Merz for victory in German election

    Akufo-Addo congratulates Friedrich Merz for victory in German election

    Former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has extended his congratulations to Friedrich Merz, Germany’s Chancellor-in-waiting, following his recent electoral victory on Sunday, February 23.

    In a Facebook post, Akufo-Addo expressed satisfaction with the outcome of the election, which saw Merz’s Christian Democratic Union (CDU) secure the majority.

    “I am particularly glad that the German people have by this election renewed their confidence in the Christian Democratic Union (CDU), under the new leadership of Mr. Merz,” he wrote.

    “The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has for many years enjoyed fraternal and collaborative relations with the CDU under the banner of the International Democratic Union (IDU), the global alliance of centre-right political parties. Long may it thrive!”

    The former president also wished Merz success during his tenure, adding, “My best wishes to Mr. Merz for the continued prosperity of the German people during his tenure. Long live Ghana – Germany relations.”

    According to preliminary results announced by Germany’s federal electoral body, Merz’s CDU/CSU conservative bloc emerged victorious with 28.6% of the vote.

    The election also marked a significant rise for the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD), which garnered 20.8%, achieving its highest result at the federal level so far.

    Outgoing Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s Social Democratic Party (SPD) experienced a steep decline, securing only 16.4% of the vote and falling to third place.

    The SPD’s coalition partner, the environmentalist Greens, captured 11.6%, while the Free Democratic Party (FDP) fell short of the 5% threshold required to enter parliament, receiving just 4.3% of the vote.

    Similarly, the left-wing Sahra Wagenknecht Alliance (BSW) narrowly missed parliamentary representation with 4.97%, while the socialist Left Party managed to surpass the threshold with 8.8% of the vote.

  • Over 40 foreign doctors to undertake hole in heart operation in Ghana

    Over 40 foreign doctors to undertake hole in heart operation in Ghana

    Former German footballer Gerald Asamoah has won the admiration of Ghanaians after bringing a team of doctors and nurses from Germany to perform life-saving surgeries on Ghanaian children with hole-in-the-heart conditions.

    On Saturday, November 2, 2024, over 40 medical professionals from the Gerald Asamoah Foundation arrived in Ghana as part of the foundation’s annual free open-heart surgery program.

    Reports indicate that the selected beneficiaries are set to begin their procedures shortly.

    Popular Ghanaian blogger Zionfelix captured the heartfelt moment, sharing a video on Instagram that showcased the warm welcome extended to the German medical team.

    In 2023, Mr. Asamoah’s initiative enabled 50 children with hole-in-the-heart conditions to receive free surgeries, with the same foundation coordinating the arrival of skilled German doctors and nurses for the operations.

  • Germany beat England at Wembley Stadium 

    Germany beat England at Wembley Stadium 

    Germany secured a thrilling 4-3 victory over England at Wembley Stadium, as the hosts kicked off their preparations for the upcoming European Championship.

    Despite a spirited fightback, England’s defensive weaknesses were exposed, leading to a disappointing result.

    Fans were treated to a high-energy match, with Germany racing to a commanding 3-0 lead within the first half hour. England’s Georgia Stanway managed to pull two goals back, but defensive errors allowed Germany to extend their lead once more, ultimately sealing the win.

    “It’s one for the fans but not one for us,” Stanway reflected after the match, emphasizing the need for improvement as they gear up for Euro 2025.

    The encounter highlighted critical areas for England to address, as coach Sarina Wiegman acknowledged the need for tactical adjustments ahead of their title defense in Switzerland next summer.

  • Jamie Leweling tells why he rejected Ghana for Germany

    Jamie Leweling tells why he rejected Ghana for Germany

    German winger Jamie Leweling has revealed the reasons behind his choice to decline a call-up to the Black Stars and instead commit his international career to Germany.

    With a German mother and a Ghanaian father, Leweling was eligible to represent either nation but ultimately chose the European side over the four-time African champions.

    On October 14, 2024, the VfB Stuttgart player made his debut for Germany, scoring a crucial goal that led to a 1-0 victory against the Netherlands in the UEFA Nations League.

    In a post-match interview, Leweling explained that his decision to choose Germany over Ghana stemmed from a deeper connection to his mother’s homeland.

    When asked in the post-match interview, he said, “Quite simply: because I was born and grew up here. I am German!”

    Leweling also shared his thoughts on the experience of making his debut for Germany, mentioning that he felt nervous upon learning he would be starting the match.

    However, he noted that those nerves quickly transformed into excitement as soon as he stepped onto the field.

    “I found out this morning that I was starting. Of course, I was nervous. But in the end, it’s football, 11 against 11. On the pitch, the nervousness was gone. I’m very happy,” he said.

    In October 2020, then Ghana coach CK Akonnor handed him a call-up, but the winger rejected it.

  • Ghana to benefit from US, Germany’s $40m Coastal States Stability Mechanism initiative

    Ghana to benefit from US, Germany’s $40m Coastal States Stability Mechanism initiative

    Ghana is poised to benefit from the newly launched $40 million Coastal States Stability Mechanism (CSSM), a joint initiative between the United States and Germany aimed at strengthening security and stability in northern Ghana, as well as in the coastal West African nations of Benin and Togo.

    The CSSM, which runs from April 2023 to April 2026, seeks to enhance the presence of government authorities in vulnerable areas, promote community cohesion, and prevent the spread of violent extremism.

    The project, funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and the German Federal Foreign Office (GFFO), will be implemented in collaboration with the International Organization for Migration (IOM), Ghana’s Ministry of National Security, and local partners. It focuses on improving government responsiveness, fostering relationships between citizens and authorities, and bolstering security in areas most at risk of extremist activities.

    Speaking at the project’s launch in Yendi, Northern Region, U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for Conflict and Stabilization Operations, Anne Witkowsky, emphasized the initiative’s critical role in promoting regional stability. “This initiative is part of a broader U.S. Strategy to Prevent Conflict and Promote Stability in coastal West Africa,” Witkowsky explained. “It aims to enhance social cohesion, improve government responsiveness, and support security across the region.”

    German Director General for Crisis Prevention, Deike Potzel, reinforced the importance of building government capacity and legitimacy to maintain peace in the region. The CSSM is aligned with Ghana’s National Framework for the Prevention and Countering of Violent Extremism and Terrorism, employing a community-centered approach to address the rise of Violent Extremist Organizations (VEOs).

    As part of the initiative’s launch, donations of equipment, including solar streetlights, personal protective gear for the police, and medical supplies for the Chereponi District Hospital, were made to local institutions. The project will also extend to other districts in Ghana’s Upper West and Upper East Regions.

    German Ambassador to Ghana, Daniel Krull, praised Ghana’s leadership in the region, noting its strong democratic institutions. “We are confident that Ghana will continue to set an example for democratic resilience in the region,” Ambassador Krull stated. Both the U.S. and Germany reaffirmed their commitment to supporting Ghana in strengthening its defenses against violent extremism and ensuring a secure and stable future.

    The CSSM is expected to play a pivotal role in advancing security, fostering economic development, and enhancing the government’s ability to respond to emerging security threats across northern Ghana and the wider coastal West African region.

  • Germany to accept 250,000 Kenyan workers under new labor agreement

    Germany to accept 250,000 Kenyan workers under new labor agreement

    Germany has reached a landmark agreement with Kenya to welcome 250,000 skilled and semi-skilled workers under a targeted labour migration deal.

    This initiative is designed to address Germany’s growing shortage of skilled labour while offering new opportunities to Kenyan professionals.

    The deal comes at a time when Kenya faces challenges in providing sufficient employment and income for its young workforce. As part of the agreement, five Kenyan bus drivers have already begun working in Flensburg, Germany, as part of a pilot project.

    This migration agreement is part of Germany’s broader strategy to manage immigration effectively. It also includes provisions for simplifying the repatriation process for Kenyans residing in Germany without legal status.

    Germany’s approach to immigration has been a hot topic, especially with the rise of the far-right anti-immigration party, Alternative for Germany (AfD).

    The country has experienced significant waves of immigration, including over a million people during the 2015-2016 migrant crisis and 1.2 million Ukrainians since the start of Russia’s invasion in February 2022.

    The labour deal was formalised in Berlin by German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Kenyan President William Ruto. As part of the agreement, Germany has agreed to relax some of its immigration laws to facilitate Kenyan employment in its economy.

    Kenyan workers will also benefit from extended temporary residence permits if they secure approved jobs, and long-term visas will be available for those wishing to study or undertake vocational training in Germany.

    “On the expiry of the long-stay visa, Kenyans may receive a temporary residence permit for study purposes in Germany for up to two years,” the agreement states.

    The temporary residence permit may be extended if the purpose of residence has not yet been achieved but is achievable within a “reasonable” period, it adds.

    Under the new deal, Kenya’s IT specialists will be permitted to work in Germany even without formal qualifications.

    This agreement supports the immigration of skilled workers who have completed vocational training or hold university degrees, provided their qualifications are recognised by the relevant authorities in either country.

    The agreement also outlines procedures for the readmission and return of citizens between Kenya and Germany. It includes strict measures to prevent and combat labour exploitation, forced labour, and human trafficking.

    During the welcome ceremony for the five Kenyan drivers in Flensburg, Schleswig-Holstein’s Transport Minister Claus Ruhe Madsen emphasised Germany’s need for dedicated workers and innovative minds. He expressed that Germany is eager to benefit from the skills and expertise of these new arrivals.

    “We simply have to position ourselves in Germany in such a way that it is attractive to come here,” Mr Madsen added.

    The drivers are the first batch of Kenyan workers, who will be trained by the Aktiv bus company in a pilot project, hoping to get a job in Germany.

    Doctors, nurses, and teachers are among those expected to take part in the programme.

    The International Labour Organisation (ILO) said the deal was expected to significantly increase access to decent foreign jobs for Kenyan workers in Germany and address labour shortages in Germany.

    “It includes mechanisms to protect the rights and welfare of Kenyan migrant workers in Germany, ensuring safe, orderly, and productive migration,” ILO added in a statement.

    But there are concerns about a brain drain in Kenya with professionals like doctors and nurses going abroad for jobs, leaving local hospitals with a huge shortage of medical workers.

    “It is sad that we are going to service other countries at the expense of our own country,” Ekuru Aukot, a Kenyan lawyer and politician, told the BBC’s Newsday programme.

    But Roseline Njogu, a senior foreign affairs official, said Kenya was simply responding to the global labour market demands.

    “We have a youth bulge in Kenya, and every year we have a million people joining the local labour market. It takes time and resources to create job opportunities at home,” she added.

  • Germany and Kenya forge labor migration deal for 250,000 workers

    Germany and Kenya forge labor migration deal for 250,000 workers

    Germany has committed to opening its doors to 250,000 skilled and semi-skilled workers from Kenya through a targeted labor migration agreement.

    Kenya is facing growing challenges in offering adequate job opportunities and income for its young professionals, while Germany is experiencing a shortage of skilled labor.

    As part of a pilot project, five Kenyan bus drivers have already arrived in Flensburg, a northern city in Germany.

    This migration deal is a key element of the German government’s strategy to manage immigration more effectively.

    The agreement will also streamline the process for repatriating Kenyans who are residing in Germany without legal status.

    Immigration has become a major issue in Germany, especially with the rise of the far-right anti-immigration party, Alternative for Germany (AfD).

    Recent German governments have allowed significant numbers of asylum seekers to settle in the country, including over one million people fleeing conflict in Syria during the 2015-2016 migrant crisis and 1.2 million Ukrainians since Russia’s full-scale invasion began in February 2022.

    The labor agreement was signed in Berlin by Chancellor Olaf Scholz and President William Ruto of Kenya.

    Germany has agreed to relax some of its immigration regulations to facilitate Kenyan employment in Europe’s largest economy.

    Berlin authorities will also consider extending temporary residence permits for Kenyan workers who secure approved positions.

    Additionally, Kenyans will be eligible for long-term visas to study or pursue vocational training in Germany.

    “On the expiry of the long-stay visa, Kenyans may receive a temporary residence permit for study purposes in Germany for up to two years,” the agreement states.

    The temporary residence permit may be extended if the purpose of residence has not yet been achieved but is achievable within a “reasonable” period, it adds.

    Under the agreement, IT professionals from Kenya will be permitted to work in Germany even without formal qualifications.

    Both governments will facilitate the immigration of skilled workers who have completed vocational training or hold a university degree, provided their qualifications are recognized by the appropriate authorities in each country.

    The agreement also covers the readmission and repatriation of citizens between Kenya and Germany.

    It outlines measures to prevent and combat labor exploitation, forced labor, and human trafficking.

    During the welcome ceremony for five Kenyan drivers in Flensburg on Thursday, Schleswig-Holstein’s Transport Minister Claus Ruhe Madsen emphasized Germany’s need for hardworking individuals and skilled minds.

    “We simply have to position ourselves in Germany in such a way that it is attractive to come here,” Mr Madsen added.

    The drivers represent the initial group of Kenyan workers participating in a pilot project with the Aktiv bus company, with the aim of securing employment in Germany.

    The program is also anticipated to include professionals such as doctors, nurses, and teachers.

    According to the International Labour Organisation (ILO), the agreement is expected to greatly enhance opportunities for Kenyan workers to find quality jobs in Germany while helping to alleviate labor shortages in the country.

    “It includes mechanisms to protect the rights and welfare of Kenyan migrant workers in Germany, ensuring safe, orderly, and productive migration,” ILO added in a statement.

    But there are concerns about a brain-drain in Kenya with professionals like doctors and nurses going abroad for jobs, leaving local hospitals with a huge shortage of medical workers.

    “It is sad that we are going to service other countries at the expense of our own country,” Ekuru Aukot, a Kenyan lawyer and politician, told the BBC’s Newsday programme.

    But Roseline Njogu, a senior foreign affairs official, said Kenya was simply responding to the global labour market demands.

    “We have a youth bulge in Kenya and every year we have a million people joining the local labour market. It takes time and resources to create job opportunities at home,” she added.

  • 6 cocoa road projects cancelled over lack of funds

    6 cocoa road projects cancelled over lack of funds

    Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) has announced the discontinuation of six cocoa road projects due to financial challenges.

    These initiatives were among 14 road projects started by COCOBOD between 2015 and 2016, covering seven regions and estimated to cost 370 million Ghana cedis.

    After nearly ten years, none of these roads have been finalized.

    In a presentation to the Public Accounts Committee, COCOBOD’s Chief Executive Officer, Joseph Boahen Aidoo, explained that the institution’s financial challenges have made it unfeasible to proceed with six of these initiatives.

    He added that a table provided to the committee outlines the official cessation of these six projects, while the remaining ones are being reorganized for completion.

    Mr Aidoo assured the committee that should resources become available in the future, the cancelled projects may be reconsidered. “But I give that assurance that one’s resources are available they would be definitely taken on board.”

    Regarding a separate matter involving an 8.3 million cedis rent debt noted by the Auditor-General, COCOBOD is facing difficulties in retrieving 6.8 million cedis owed by the Produce Buying Company (PBC). Ray Ankrah, COCOBOD’s Deputy CEO for Finance and Administration, offered an update on the issue.

    “The rent arrears for Jubilee House, amounting to 102,000 cedis, have been fully settled. Additionally, the outstanding rent for properties on Lake Road in Kumasi, totaling 263,307.06 cedis, has been recovered. The Sunyani Jubilee House rent of 74,771 cedis has also been collected. This accounts for approximately 67% of the total outstanding debt.

    “However, we are facing challenges with the PBC’s debt of 6,851,517.51 million cedis, which remains unpaid. Management has engaged with PBC to discuss and agree on a payment plan, and we are confident that as the new season begins, we will be able to recover these funds through their Credit to Revenue (C2R) arrangements,” Mr Ankrah explained.

  • Barcelona secures win at Valencia to kick off La Liga campaign

    Barcelona secures win at Valencia to kick off La Liga campaign

    Former Germany boss Hansi Flick‘s team had to rally after falling behind when Hugo Duro slotted home a Diego Lopez cross past Marc-Andre ter Stegen.

    The first half was largely uneventful until Duro’s 44th-minute strike sparked the match into life.

    Duro nearly added another before Robert Lewandowski equalized by finishing Lamine Yamal’s driven pass.

    Valencia impressed before halftime but struggled to maintain their momentum.

    Barcelona took control in the second half, with Lewandowski converting a penalty in the 49th minute after Raphinha was fouled in the box.

    Yamal, just 17, posed a constant threat with his tricky dribbling down the wings.

    Though Barcelona had moments of sloppiness in midfield, Valencia’s counter-attacks kept them on their toes.

    However, Flick’s side ultimately managed the game effectively, stifling Valencia’s advances and securing the victory.

    Barcelona, who finished as runners-up last season, 10 points behind Real Madrid, will next face Athletic Bilbao on Saturday, 24 August, at 18:00 BST.

  • Ghanaian-German QueenLet reveals she spent over GHS 800k on her sing-a-thon

    Ghanaian-German QueenLet reveals she spent over GHS 800k on her sing-a-thon

    Ghanaian Gospel artist QueenLet, who is based in Germany, has shared details about the costs associated with her recent singing marathon.

    The event, which began on Sunday, July 21, in Hamburg, Germany, is set to conclude on July 26, 2024.

    In an exclusive interview she revealed that she invested over GH¢800,000 into organizing the sing-a-thon.

    She also discussed her motivation for participating in the Guinness World Records’ individual singing marathon.

    QueenLet applied for the record in December 2023 and received approval in January 2024.

    For more insights, watch the video below.

    https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=506663378516028
  • Check out Stonebwoy’s electrifying performance at Summerjam Festival in Germany

    Check out Stonebwoy’s electrifying performance at Summerjam Festival in Germany

    Renowned star of reggae, Stonebwoy, dancehall, and afrobeats, headlined the second day of Germany‘s largest reggae and dancehall festival, Summerjam. His spectacular performance elevated the festival’s spirits, reminiscent of the previous year’s event.

    Taking the stage promptly at 4:30 p.m., Stonebwoy began his set with “Overlord,” a 2023 single that pays homage to his reggae and dancehall roots. This song marked his first official release of 2023, following his album “5th Dimension,” and was well-received by the German audience.

    Throughout his performance, 1 GAD delivered a mix of classic hits and recent releases, including “Run Go” (2015), “People Dey” (2016), “Activate” (a collaboration with Davido), and his latest single “Your Body,” praised as an ideal summer anthem for the festival.

    He dedicated the early part of his set to the legendary Bob Marley, performing “Praise Jah in the Moonlight” and his verse on the “Buffalo Soldier” remix. Stonebwoy then smoothly transitioned through fan favorites like “Hero,” “Apotheke” featuring DJ Maphorisa, “Non-Stop,” and “Life & Money.”

    This appearance marked Stonebwoy’s third at Summerjam, following his debut in 2018 and a headline set in 2022. Known for his exceptional musicianship and commanding stage presence, he created the unique atmosphere that has made the festival globally renowned, celebrating its 37th anniversary with an unforgettable performance.

    Stonebwoy’s Summerjam set followed a series of recent activities in Europe, including attending Paris Fashion Week and recording with the legendary Wyclef Jean in London. His new single “Your Body” features a vibrant visual narrative that celebrates African beauty, self-love, and body positivity.

    Watch video below:

  • I’ve worked as a waiter, customer service, telephonist, and a secretary – Tracy Sarkcess

    I’ve worked as a waiter, customer service, telephonist, and a secretary – Tracy Sarkcess

    Sarkodie‘s spouse, Tracy Owusu Addo recently shared her journey before finding her footing. She recounted various roles she took on, including working as a waitress, telephonist, and secretary, as well as her time at a train station in Berlin, Germany, to make ends meet.

    In a video posted by Marigyata on Instagram, Tracy highlighted her diverse experiences, which shaped her into a versatile individual.

    “I’ve worked as a waiter, in customer service, as a telephonist, and as a secretary. These experiences have honed my skills, making me one of the most resourceful people you could encounter. If you need something, I can get it. My past has equipped me with this ability,” she expressed.

    Tracy also detailed her time in Germany, where she balanced her work at a major train station with university studies.

    “When I started university, I worked at Berlin’s main train station, selling magazines, travel essentials, and chargers. Students often get the least desirable shifts, but self-sufficiency left me no choice.

    “Braving the cold, I’d work six to eight-hour shifts. Reflecting on the modest earnings, one wonders why endure such hardship. Yet, in those moments, survival is the sole focus,” Tracy shared.

  • Euro 2024: Police arrest man who climbed onto Dortmund’s stadium roof

    Euro 2024: Police arrest man who climbed onto Dortmund’s stadium roof

    A 21-year-old man was arrested after climbing onto the roof of during the Euro 2024 match between Germany and Denmark on Saturday evening.

    According to local police, the man, who hails from Osnabruck in north-west Germany, has been apprehended.

    There is currently no indication that his actions were aimed at endangering spectators at the Westfalenstadion, home to Borussia Dortmund.

    Authorities deployed a helicopter on Saturday to illuminate the roof in an effort to locate the man, who had been seen by other spectators climbing inside the stadium.

    The match was briefly halted in the 35th minute due to a thunderstorm, but Germany’s 2-0 victory ensured their advancement to the quarter-finals.

  • Tensions escalate as police, demonstrators clash in Germany ahead of AfD conference

    Tensions escalate as police, demonstrators clash in Germany ahead of AfD conference

    Police used pepper spray and batons on Saturday to halt a large group of protesters attempting to breach a cordon in Essen, western Germany, where a two-day congress by the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party is underway.

    It remains unclear if any demonstrators were injured in the 5:45 am incident, but police reported several arrests and attacks on officers.

    Authorities urged protesters to avoid violence and disruptive behavior.

    An estimated 100,000 protesters are expected to participate in demonstrations against the anti-immigration AfD, which has been gaining traction, particularly in former communist East Germany.

    While organizers promised peaceful protests, police expressed concerns about potential violence from around 1,000 leftist extremists planning to demonstrate.

    Approximately 600 AfD delegates are meeting in an indoor arena, with party co-leaders Alice Weidel and Tino Chrupalla seeking re-election ahead of next year’s German parliamentary elections.

    Several hundred protesters blocked a motorway exit ramp and occupied streets near the congress venue in an attempt to hinder delegates.

    Addressing the meeting, Weidel criticized the protests as undemocratic and asserted the party’s resolve to continue.

    Several thousand police officers were deployed to ensure security, with a major demonstration scheduled to start at 10 am at the main train station.

    On Friday evening, 5,000 protesters gathered for a music rally themed “Bass against hate.”

    Some AfD politicians reported being escorted by police from their hotels to the venue, while others managed to reach the arena without incident.

    The AfD is under surveillance by Germany’s domestic intelligence agency as a suspected right-wing extremist group, due to concerns over its racist, antisemitic, and anti-democratic tendencies.

    Despite controversies, the party secured second place nationwide in the recent European Parliament elections and first place in the five former communist eastern states.

    It is projected to emerge as the strongest party in September elections in Saxony, Thuringia, and Brandenburg, raising fears of potential coalition challenges for other political parties.

  • Germany’s foreign minister in Kiev as Ukraine struggles to repel Russian attacks

    Germany’s foreign minister in Kiev as Ukraine struggles to repel Russian attacks

    The foreign minister of Germany has visited to Kyiv to show support for Ukraine. NATO countries, like Germany, have been slow to send weapons and ammunition, which has made Ukraine vulnerable to recent Russian attacks.

    Annalena Baerbock asked for help from other countries to send more air defense systems to Berlin because Russia is attacking Ukraine with missiles, glide bombs, and rockets. Germany gives the second most military help to Ukraine after the United States.

    Ukraine’s soldiers don’t have enough people and are trying to stop a strong attack from Russia at the border. This is a very important part of the war, which has been going on for three years.

    Germany promised to give Ukraine another US-made Patriot battery, but Ukraine still doesn’t have enough air defenses to protect against the Russian attack.

    The Kremlin’s forces have used their advantage in the sky to weaken Ukraine’s power grid. They hope to make Ukrainian people feel tired and disrupt the defense industry.

    Baerbock visited a power plant in Ukraine with the Ukrainian Energy Minister. The plant was badly damaged on April 11. At the damaged inside of the plant, employees of Centrenergo, a government company that runs the plant, were still cleaning up debris a few weeks after it was hit.

    The Ukraine President said that Russian troops are still attacking the eastern Donetsk and northeastern Kharkiv areas with explosive bombs, causing damage to both military and civilian areas.

    “We need air defence to protect our warriors and cities from threats. It’s important to have additional defence systems to make things easier for us,” Zelenskyy said on social media on Monday.

    Zelenskyy said Ukraine still has control of the disputed areas, but Russia says it has taken some border villages.

    We couldn’t confirm either side’s claims about the fighting on the battlefield on our own.

    Baerbock had plans to go to Kharkiv on Tuesday but she had to cancel the trip because it wasn’t safe, according to the German news agency dpa. Nearly 11,000 people have left Kharkiv border areas because of Russia’s attack on May 10th.

    A drone attack from Russia damaged many trucks, buses, and other vehicles in Kharkiv city. The regional governor, Oleh Syniehubov, said that over 25 vehicles were damaged. Seven people got hurt, he said.

    Ukraine’s military leaders said that the number of Russian attacks in Kharkiv slowed down on Monday, but the fighting still continued.

    Russian soldiers are spying and attacking in Ukraine’s Sumy and Chernihiv regions. They are shooting at villages near the border and putting down more mines, said Dmytro Lykhovii, a spokesperson for Ukraine’s military. The front line is about 1,000 kilometers or 620 miles long.

    Baerbock was supposed to meet with the Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba in Kyiv. The German leader, Olaf Scholz, has been saying no to Ukraine’s request for Taurus missiles. These missiles can fly for 500 kilometers and are hard to detect.

    The missiles made in Germany and Sweden can travel a long distance and could hit targets far inside Russia if launched from Ukraine. But Berlin doesn’t want to send the missiles because it might make them get involved in the war.

    A think tank in Washington said that Ukraine is not allowed to attack Russia, so they can’t stop Russian troops and equipment from getting ready to attack Ukraine.

    An object to form a compound is a big problem for the US. Western decisions are making it hard for Ukraine to protect itself from Russian attacks in northern Kharkiv and other places near the border. The Institute for the Study of War said this on Monday.

    Baerbock said that Ukraine should join the European Union because of Russia’s illegal war.

    Ukraine has done really well and needs to keep making changes to the legal system, fighting corruption, and protecting freedom of the media.

    Germany is going to have a meeting to help Ukraine rebuild next month. Rebuilding the country will cost a lot of money, maybe hundreds of billions of dollars.

  • Candidate for Germany,s big party assaulted whiles campaigning for European elections

    Candidate for Germany,s big party assaulted whiles campaigning for European elections

    A member of Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s center-left party was attacked and badly hurt while campaigning in an eastern city for the European Parliament election next month, the party announced on Saturday.

    It was the most recent of many violent and harassing incidents that have made political tensions higher in Germany before the elections. Scholz’s Social Democrats, or SPD, started their official campaign for the June 9 vote with a big event in Hamburg last week. Hamburg is where Scholz has lived for a long time.

    Matthias Ecke, who is running for the SPD, got hurt while hanging up posters in Dresden last Friday night, according to the party. It was said that he was brought to a hospital and needed surgery for his injuries. The police said a 41-year-old was hurt by four men. The same group had also hurt a Greens party worker on the same street just before.

    Nancy Faeser, who is in charge of the country’s internal security, said that if it’s shown that the attack on Ecke was done for political reasons, it would be a big threat to our democracy.

    “We are facing a new kind of violence that goes against democracy,” Faeser said. She said she would do more to protect the democratic people in our country.

    The government and opposition parties are saying that their members and supporters have been attacked recently. They want the police to do more to protect politicians and rallies.

    A lot of bad things have happened in the eastern part of the country, where most people don’t like Scholz’s government. The right-wing and anti-government AfD party in Germany is likely to win many votes in both the European elections and the state elections in Germany this fall.

    The vice president of the German parliament, Katrin Goering-Eckardt, was in a car last week. When she tried to leave a rally, protesters surrounded her car for almost an hour. The Christian Democrats and The Left party say their workers have been scared and had their posters taken down too.

    The main parties say that the AfD is connected to violent neo-Nazi groups and is making the political atmosphere more unfriendly. A leader of a political party called AfD, Bjoern Hoecke, is in trouble for using a Nazi phrase that is not allowed. Germany’s spy agency is watching some parts of the political party.

    The Social Democrats in Saxony have chosen Ecke as their main candidate for the European elections. They said they will continue their campaign even though they are facing intimidation using “fascist methods”.

    “The ideas spread by the AfD and other right-wing extremists are starting to grow,” said branch leaders Henning Homann and Kathrin Michel in a statement they made together. “Those people and their supporters are responsible for what is happening in this country. ”

    Tino Chrupalla, co-leader of the AfD, said his party strongly opposes physical attacks on politicians from any party. He said that election campaigns should be challenging and focused on important issues, but they should not involve any violence.


    The AfD says its members are also attacked and harassed, especially when they hold rallies that often have people protesting against them.

    On Saturday, the police arrested a man who hit and slightly hurt a state lawmaker for the AfD while he was campaigning in Norden, a town near Germany’s North Sea coast. The attacker also threw eggs at the lawmaker.

  • Germany says it will start supporting Palestinian UN agency again

    Germany says it will start supporting Palestinian UN agency again

    Germany said it will work with the UN agency for Palestinian refugees again. This means they will start giving money again after they stopped because of accusations against UNRWA staff.

    The claims caused 16 countries that give money, including the biggest one, the United States, to stop giving about $450 million to UNRWA. This hurts UNRWA’s ability to help with the crisis in Gaza caused by Israel’s attack.

    Former French foreign minister Catherine Colonna led a review into UNRWA’s rules for staying neutral. The review was published on Monday.

    The German foreign and development ministries want UNRWA to quickly follow the report’s suggestions. This includes making its internal audit function stronger and improving oversight of project management.

    “The German government will keep working with UNRWA in Gaza, just like Australia, Canada, Sweden, and Japan are already doing,” the statement said. Germany is the second largest giver to UNRWA.

    The organization has 32,000 workers in the Palestinian areas and nearby countries. This includes 13,000 in the Gaza Strip. It is the largest aid agency there and provides schools and social services to the refugees who are the majority of the people in Gaza.

    UNRWA’s communication director Juliette Touma said that they are very thankful. She also said that Germany has been a strong supporter of the agency.

    The review said Israel hasn’t shown proof to support their claims that many UNRWA staff in Gaza are part of terrorist groups.

    The review showed that UNRWA is better at staying neutral compared to other groups, but there are still some problems with staff sharing their political opinions publicly.

    The United Nations is looking into claims against 12 of its workers. After these came out in January, UNRWA said it had fired 10 of the people mentioned, and the other two had passed away.

    In March, Israel said that more than 450 UNRWA workers in Gaza were members of terrorist groups.

    Israel’s spokesperson from the Foreign Ministry said it was sad and not good that Germany made this decision. Israel gave lots of information about hundreds of UNRWA workers who are part of Hamas and Islamic Jihad to Germany.

    UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres wants all countries to help UNRWA because it’s really important for Palestine refugees in the region.

    The head of UNRWA, Philippe Lazzarini, said on Tuesday that UNRWA has enough money to cover its operations until June.

  • Chancellor of Germany presses China about Russia’s incursion into Ukraine

    Chancellor of Germany presses China about Russia’s incursion into Ukraine

    German leader Olaf Scholz told the leader of China, Xi Jinping, to tell Russia to stop its crazy attack in Ukraine. Many European leaders are also asking Russia to stop.

    The Chinese side didn’t show any sign of changing its stance. They blame Europe and the US for making the fighting in Ukraine last longer by giving them weapons. They also want peace talks to consider both Russian and Ukrainian concerns.

    “China is not part of the Ukraine crisis but has consistently supported peace talks in its own way,” said a statement from China after discussions between Xi and Scholz in Beijing.

    Scholz, finishing a three-day trip to China, told reporters that he thinks progress has been made to help discussions on ending the war.

    Before, he posted on social media platform X that he talked to Xi and asked him to help with Russia.

    China has significant influence in Russia. So I asked President Xi to pressure Russia to make Putin stop the war and bring his troops back.

    China has decided not to criticize Russia’s invasion, which is different from the way Western countries are responding. The government says it is not giving military help to Moscow, but it is helping Russia’s economy by trading with them. This is to help Russia deal with the sanctions from Western countries. A recent report from US intelligence found that China has been selling more equipment to Russia in order to help them in their war against Ukraine.

    Scholz said the discussions talked about China’s exports of goods that can be used for both civilian and military purposes.

    “He said it’s really important to not export any weapons, but we also have to think about items that could be used as weapons too. ” “We can make sure that everything needed is clear and easy to understand here. ”

    Scholz said that using nuclear weapons should not even be talked about, according to a German government report of what he said at the beginning of the meeting with Xi.

    Last month, the President of Russia, Vladimir Putin, said that his government is prepared to use nuclear weapons if its sovereignty or independence is in danger. This is the latest time he has made this kind of threat since taking over Ukraine.

    The leaders of China and Germany both said they are committed to the UN Charter and do not support using nuclear weapons.

    China wants to help solve the crisis peacefully. They support having a peace conference that both Russia and Ukraine agree to. They want everyone to be able to take part and discuss their ideas for peace.

    Xi told Scholz that both countries should be careful about protectionism in trade and look at the issue of manufacturing capacity in a fair way, according to a statement.

    The leader of Germany’s visit has shown that there are problems with trade between Europe, the United States, and China. They say China is not playing fair in trade and is using subsidies to make a lot of products, like solar panels and electric cars, which is causing tension.

    The EU is thinking about charging fees on Chinese electric vehicles to help European producers. Some people are worried that too many cheap Chinese electric vehicles will come into the European market.

    Scholz met with the Chinese Premier Li Qiang to ask for German companies in China to have better access to the market, fair competition, protection for their ideas, and a fair legal system.

    “He said that these companies need the right conditions to keep going. ”

    Despite some problems between them, China was Germany’s number one trading partner for the eighth year in a row in 2023. They exchanged 254. 1 billion euros ($271 billion) worth of goods and services, which was a little more than what Germany traded with the US. However, this was a 15. 5% decrease from the previous year.

    This is Scholz’s second time visiting China since he became chancellor in late 2021. This is his first visit since the German government showed its plan for China last year, which China didn’t like. Li, the leader of China, went to Berlin in June.

  • Sudan’s civil war victims to receive €2bn aid -French President Macron says

    Sudan’s civil war victims to receive €2bn aid -French President Macron says

    Previously, we informed you about France, Germany, and the EU jointly hosting a summit focused on raising awareness and vital humanitarian aid for the victims of Sudan’s civil war.

    French President Emmanuel Macron has announced that donors have pledged over €2 billion ($2.1 billion; £1.7 billion) in assistance for the strife-ridden nation.

    It has been one year since Sudan’s military and the RSF, a formidable paramilitary faction, commenced hostilities.

    The conflict has resulted in tens of thousands of casualties and forced 8.5 million individuals to evacuate their residences.

  • Germany, UK, and Russia call for caution after Iran threatens Europe

    Germany, UK, and Russia call for caution after Iran threatens Europe

    Russia, Germany, and Britain want Middle Eastern countries to be calm after Israel said it is getting ready to protect itself because of a threat from Iran.

    The German airline Lufthansa stopped flying to Tehran, and Russia advised against traveling to the Middle East.

    Iran promised to get back at the people who attacked its embassy in Damascus on April 1. This attack killed an important Iranian general and six other Iranian military officers. This has made the situation in the region even more tense because of the war in Gaza.

    Israel did not say they did the attack, but the leader of Iran, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, said that Israel should be punished for the attack. He said it was like an attack on Iran.

    Iran’s United Nations mission said that if the UN Security Council had punished the people responsible for the attack, then Iran wouldn’t feel the need to punish them.

    Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel is still fighting in Gaza and getting ready for security in other places.

    “We will harm anyone who hurts us. ” “We are ready to protect Israel’s security, both by defending and attacking,” he said after visiting an air force base.

    Iran has told the US that it will not react quickly to Israel’s attack and will try to avoid making things worse.

    Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant told the US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin that Israel will directly fight back if Iran attacks, according to Gallant’s office.

    Fighting has been happening in the Middle East since the Gaza war started. Groups backed by Iran are supporting the Palestinians and attacking from Lebanon, Yemen, and Iraq. Tehran has not fought with Israel or the United States, but it has said it supports its friends.

    German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock asked the Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian to be very careful and not make things worse.

    Russia’s government says it’s best for its citizens to avoid going to the Middle East, especially to Israel, Lebanon, and the Palestinian territories.

    “Everyone needs to be careful not to make the situation in the region worse. It’s not very stable or predictable, so it’s crucial to act responsibly. ” Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said at a press conference.

    ‘Possibility of making a mistake’

    British foreign minister David Cameron told Amirabdollahian that Iran should not involve the Middle East in a bigger fight.

    Cameron said he is very worried that making a mistake could lead to more fighting.

    Matthew Miller, a spokesperson for the US State Department, said that Secretary of State Antony Blinken talked to the foreign ministers of Turkey, China, and Saudi Arabia. He told them that it’s not good for anyone if the situation gets worse, and they should tell Iran not to make things worse.

    The President of the United States, Joe Biden, said that Iran is planning to attack Israel. He told the Prime Minister of Israel, Netanyahu, that the US is very committed to protecting Israel from these threats from Iran and its allies.

    The US thinks Iran might attack Israel, but it probably won’t be a big enough attack to make the US start a war.

    Iran is the third biggest oil producer in OPEC. Oil prices are high right now.

    On Wednesday night, an Iranian news agency posted a message in Arabic on the X platform saying that the skies over Tehran were closed for military training. Later, they took down the message and said they never posted it.

    Lufthansa said they won’t likely fly to Tehran until after April 13th. Austrian Airlines is still planning to fly on Thursday, but they are changing the flight times to avoid the crew having to stay overnight.

    Iran’s airspace is an important route for Emirates and Qatar Airways flights to Europe and North America.

    Emirates, Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines, Aeroflot and Air Arabia, are some of the airlines that go to Tehran. They have not yet answered requests for comments.

  • Germany denies encouraging acts of genocide in Gaza

    Germany denies encouraging acts of genocide in Gaza

    On Tuesday, Germany said no to a case brought by Nicaragua at the United Nations’ top court. Nicaragua accused Germany of helping Israel in its attack on Gaza, which goes against international laws. Germany denied these accusations.

    Christian Tams, a member of Germany’s legal team, told the 16-judge panel at the International Court of Justice that when they examine the evidence closely, Nicaragua’s accusations don’t hold up.

    On Monday, Nicaragua asked judges to stop Germany from giving military help to Israel. They said that Germany’s support allows genocide and breaks international humanitarian laws in Gaza.

    Germany’s legal team leader, Tania von Uslar-Gleichen, said Nicaragua’s claims are not true in fact or law. “They need to wait for Israel to give their opinion, even though Israel is not involved in this case. ”

    On Monday and Tuesday, there were initial hearings about Nicaragua’s request for temporary actions. They want a court order for Berlin to stop giving military support to Israel and give money again to the UN aid agency in Gaza.

    Germany’s representative, Von Uslar-Gleichen, asked the judges not to make any quick decisions and to reject Nicaragua’s case.

    Tams stated that Germany had only allowed four weapon exports to Israel since October, and three of them were for test or practice equipment.

    Tams showed judges a picture of German help being dropped by airplane to Gaza. He said that Germany keeps giving help to Palestinians every day, even when it’s very tough, and works with other countries to help.

    Nicaragua is the most recent country trying to stop Israel’s attack. South Africa also went to court last year accusing Israel of causing a lot of harm. This is happening as more and more people are asking other countries to stop giving weapons to Israel, and some of Israel’s friends, like Germany, are starting to criticize the war.

    During Monday’s meetings, Nicaragua’s Ambassador to the Netherlands, Carlos José Argüello Gómez, said that Germany did not do enough to stop genocide or follow international humanitarian laws.

    But another lawyer from Germany, Samuel Wordsworth, said that the court cannot say Germany is not stopping genocide because it hasn’t said Israel is breaking the rules.

    In the early stage of the case that South Africa brought last year, the UN court said that it is possible that Israel’s actions in Gaza might break the convention.

    Wordsworth asked, “How can we say there was a failure to respect a third state, if we haven’t proven that the third state didn’t respect in the first place. ”

    The court will probably take a few weeks to make its first decision, and Nicaragua’s case is probably going to last for many years.

    Israel says it’s not trying to commit genocide and is only defending itself after militants from Hamas attacked southern Israel in October. 7 battles resulted in the deaths of around 1,200 people.

    Since then, over 33,000 Palestinians have died in Gaza, according to the territory’s Health Ministry. It doesn’t matter if they are civilians or fighters, but most of the people who have been killed are women and children.

    The Stockholm International Peace Research Institute says that Germany is second after the US in giving weapons to Israel. It would be very difficult, if not impossible, to bring the US to court because Washington does not accept the ICJ’s authority to make countries go to court. The US has not agreed to a rule that lets countries bring arguments to the court about genocide.

  • UN court to hear in a case accusing Germany for supporting Israel during Gaza crisis

    UN court to hear in a case accusing Germany for supporting Israel during Gaza crisis

    The United Nations court will start hearings on Monday in a case that wants Germany to stop giving military and other help to Israel. The case says Germany is helping in acts of genocide and breaking international laws in the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza.

    Israel says that its military actions do not break the Genocide Convention.

    Nicaragua’s case is mainly about Germany, but it also criticizes Israel’s military actions in Gaza after the deadly Oct. incident. In 2007, Hamas militants attacked southern Israel, and about 1,200 people were killed. Over 33,000 Palestinians have died in Gaza, according to the territory’s Health Ministry. The toll doesn’t care if someone is a civilian or a fighter, but it has been reported that most of the people who have died are women and children.

    “We are peaceful and we will explain our side in court,” said Sebastian Fischer, a spokesperson for the German Foreign Ministry, before the hearings.

    “We do not agree with Nicaragua’s accusations,” Fischer told reporters in Berlin on Friday. Germany did not break the rules about genocide or international humanitarian law, and we will explain this in detail at the International Court of Justice.

    Nicaragua asked the court to order Germany to stop giving military aid to Israel because it may be used to violate international law.

    The court will probably need a few weeks to make its first decision, and Nicaragua’s case could take many years to be resolved.

    On Monday, there was a meeting at the world court about the need for countries to stop giving weapons to Israel. This is because Israel has been attacking Gaza for six months and causing a lot of damage.

    The attack has forced most people in Gaza to leave their homes. There is not enough food, the UN says that a famine is coming, and only a few Palestinians have been able to leave the area that is surrounded by enemies.

    Mary Ellen O’Connell, a professor at the University of Notre Dame thinks that the upcoming court case in The Hague will probably make more people against giving any support to Israel.

    On Friday, the highest group that looks after people’s rights at the United Nations asked countries to stop sending weapons to Israel. The United States and Germany were against the resolution.

    Many British legal experts, including three former Supreme Court judges, want their government to stop selling weapons to Israel after three U. KPeople from World Central Kitchen charity were killed in Israeli strikes, along with other aid workers. Israel said that they attacked the aid workers by accident because they thought they were someone else.

    For many years, Germany has strongly supported Israel. Days after October. Chancellor Olaf Scholz said that because of Germany’s history and responsibility from the Holocaust, they will always support and protect the state of Israel’s security.

    Berlin changed its opinion because many innocent people in Gaza have been hurt. They are now very concerned about the people in Gaza and are against a military attack in Rafah.

    Nicaragua’s government has connections to Palestinian groups since the 1979 Sandinista revolution. UN experts accused the government of committing serious human rights abuses this year, but President Daniel Ortega denied the allegations.

    In January, the ICJ ordered Israel to do everything it can to stop people from dying, things from being destroyed, and genocide from happening in Gaza. South Africa filed a case accusing Israel of breaking the Genocide Convention.

    Last week, the court told Israel to do more to help the people in Gaza. They need more ways to get food, water, fuel, and other things they need.

    On Friday, Israel announced that it is opening a border crossing into northern Gaza to help get more aid to the people living there.

    Nicaragua is saying that by helping Israel with political, financial and military support and by stopping funding for the United Nations aid agency for Palestinians, UNWRA, Germany is making it easier for genocide to happen. And Germany has not done enough to stop it.

    Israel says it’s not committing genocide, they are just defending themselves. In January, Israeli legal advisor Tal Becker told judges that the country is fighting a war that they did not begin or want.

  • At least five passengers dead after bus in eastern Germany crashed off highway

    At least five passengers dead after bus in eastern Germany crashed off highway

    At least five people died on Wednesday when a bus traveling from Berlin to Switzerland crashed and tipped over on a highway in eastern Germany, according to officials.

    The car crash occurred on the A9 road close to Leipzig at around 9:45 in the morning. The road was shut down for traffic going in both directions.

    It wasn’t clear right away why the bus, which was run by Flixbus and traveling from Berlin to Zurich, crashed off the road. Helicopters and ambulances came to help at the accident.

    Police spokesperson Olaf Hoppe told n-tv television that there were “a lot of people hurt and at least five people dead. ”

    Flixbus said that there were 53 people and two drivers on the bus, according to German news agency dpa. The company is working closely with local authorities and rescue services to find out quickly what caused the accident.


    The A9 is a big road that goes from Berlin to Munich. The accident happened near the highway interchange at Schkeuditz, close to the Leipzig/Halle airport.

  • US man sentenced to life in prison for killing tourist at Germany’s Neuschwanstein Castle

    US man sentenced to life in prison for killing tourist at Germany’s Neuschwanstein Castle

    A man from the US has been given a life sentence in jail for raping and killing another American tourist and trying to kill her friend near a popular tourist spot in Germany.

    A German court found Troy Philipp B, 31, guilty of attacking two tourists near Neuschwanstein Castle. He said he hurt one woman and then pushed her and her friend off a cliff in June 14, 2023.

    He made friends with the two women and then convinced them to leave the public path.

    On Monday, in a court in Kempten, Bavaria, Judge Christoph Schwiebacher said the person was very guilty in the case.

    He said the person who committed the crime may not be allowed to get out of prison for at least 15 years. This is what usually happens to people who are given life sentences in Germany, according to Agence France-Presse news agency.

    German government could not confirm who the victims were, but their family members said they were Eva Liu, 21, and Kelsey Chang, 22, who had graduated from the University of Illinois.

    The man from Michigan tricked the two friends into leaving the Marienbruecke bridge, which is a favorite spot to see the fairytale castle.

    He showed them a secret path and warned them that it would be hard to find the bridge.

    Officials say he pushed Ms Liu down, raped and choked her, and then Ms Chang tried to stop him.

    He forced Ms Chang into a very deep ravine and then attacked her friend, choking her with a belt and filming it.

    After some hikers found Ms. Liu unconscious, he pushed her into the ravine.

    Rescuers found the women on the mountain and they were taken to safety by helicopters. Ms Liu passed away in the hospital because of her injuries.

    Ms Chang was very hurt, but she lived.

    The person they were looking for was not caught until later that day, after a big search.

    A person visiting the area saw that his face and neck had deep red scratch marks and said there was signs of a fight.

    During the trial in February, the person on trial said he felt really bad about what he did and that he didn’t plan to do it. He also said he had child pornography.

    In her obituary, Ms. Liu’s family said she was a smart student who loved baking, traveling, and music.

    The court in Germany did not give out the full name of the person who killed someone because of privacy laws.

    Neuschwanstein Castle in Bavaria is 78 miles away from Munich and attracts over 1. 3 million tourists every year.

  • John Kumah didn’t die in Germany but Suhum government hospital – Spokesperson

    John Kumah didn’t die in Germany but Suhum government hospital – Spokesperson


    Kwasi Owusu Twumasi, spokesperson for the late Deputy Minister of Finance and MP for Ejisu, John Kumah, has clarified that the MP passed away at the Suhum Government Hospital, not in Germany as some reports suggested.

    Contrary to speculations that Kumah died in Germany, Twumasi explained in an interview with Accra FM that the MP was in the process of traveling to Germany for medical treatment but, unfortunately, succumbed to his ailment at the Suhum Government Hospital on Thursday, March 7, 2024.

    Reports indicate that Kumah had visited his constituency in the Ashanti Region for the independence anniversary on March 6.

    Mr Twumasi disclosed that the late MP had been unwell for some time, experiencing difficulty walking.

    On March 6, doctors visited Mr Kumah at his residence in Ejisu, and due to the worsening of his health, plans were made to transfer him to Accra.

    However, on the way to the airport for medical evacuation to Germany, they had to divert to Suhum Hospital as his condition deteriorated, leading to his unfortunate passing.

    “We realised that he couldn’t walk properly and that was what drew our attention to getting him medical attention. Doctors came to his aid yesterday (March 6), but because his health was getting worse, he needed to bring him to Accra. “His office had made arrangements for him to be flown out of the country to Amsterdam and then transit to Germany this evening. So we began the journey in an ambulance from Ejisu, together with his wife. “When we got to Suhum, we had to divert to the hospital because his ailment was getting worse, and unfortunately, he passed on,” he stated.

  • Russia and Germany fight over recorded audio about missiles intended for Ukraine

    Russia and Germany fight over recorded audio about missiles intended for Ukraine

    The German government has strongly denied that Russia‘s release of a conversation between senior German military officers was a sign that Germany was getting ready to go to war with Russia.

    The government tried to handle the problems caused by the audio leaked at home, and promised to quickly investigate how top German military conversations were leaked.

    “The German Chancellor’s spokesman Wolfgang Buechner, said it is very clear that the claims about Germany preparing for war against Russia are just false Russian propaganda. ”

    Wolfgang Buechner, who speaks for the government, said that Russia is trying to start problems with Germany by spreading information.

    The 38-minute recording has German military officers talking about how Kyiv could use Taurus missiles against Russian forces. German authorities have not doubted that the recording is real. But, Scholz said a week ago that giving these weapons to Ukraine is not a good idea. He doesn’t want Germany to get involved in the war.

    Russia’s foreign ministry warned Germany on Monday that there would be serious consequences because of the leak, but they did not explain further.

    “If the German people don’t do something about this, there will be bad consequences for Germany,” said Maria Zakharova, a spokesperson for the foreign ministry.

    The relationship between the two countries has been getting worse since Russia attacked Ukraine two years ago.

    On Friday, Margarita Simonyan, who is in charge of a Russian TV channel that gets money from the government, posted a recorded conversation online. This happened on the same day that Alexei Navalny, a politician who opposed the government, was buried after dying in a prison two weeks ago. It also appeared just a few weeks before the election for Russia’s president.

    According to the dpa news agency, a leaked audio recording reveals that four officers, including Germany’s Air Force leader Ingo Gerhartz, were talking about using Taurus missiles in Ukraine before meeting with the country’s Defence Minister Boris Pistorius.

    The officers said that if German soldiers helped, they could deliver Taurus missiles quickly. Training Ukrainian soldiers to do it themselves would take a long time.

    The video also shows that the German government has not approved the delivery of the cruise missiles that Ukraine wants, according to dpa.

    In Germany, people are arguing about whether Ukraine should get missiles because Kyiv is losing battles, and the United States hasn’t sent military help yet. Germany now gives the second most military help to Ukraine after the U. Sand is increasing its help even more this year. Scholz said last week that Germany will not give Taurus missiles to Ukraine. Ukraine had been asking for the missiles for months, but Germany was taking a long time to decide. Taurus missiles can reach up to 500 kilometers, and could potentially be used against targets deep inside Russia.

    On Monday, the ambassador from Germany went to visit the foreign ministry in Moscow, Russia. Russia media said Ambassador Alexander Graf Lambsdorff was called in by the foreign ministry, but the German government said his visit was already planned before the audio was released.

    Germany’s defense ministry tried to make the officers’ conversation in the leak seem less important, saying it was just a discussion of ideas before meeting with the defense minister.

    The government is looking into how Russian agents were able to listen in on and share a private conversation among important German military leaders. It said it would tell about what it found. Some German news outlets said that the police officers were in an online meeting when they were recorded.

    Buechner, who speaks for the chancellor, said that the German government will try to stop false information, especially from Russia.

    The Kremlin said it is waiting for the German government’s investigation results.

    Mr Smith was increasingly incensed by his colleague’s lack of professionalism. He found it extremely frustrating. Scholz promised that they would quickly and thoroughly investigate the situation. “We want to know what the investigation found,” said spokesperson Dmitry Peskov.

  • Two adolescent basketball players killed in mass knife attack in Germany

    Two adolescent basketball players killed in mass knife attack in Germany

    Four young people are accused of killing two teens from Ukraine in a stabbing attack in Germany.

    Seventeen-year-old basketball player Volodymyr Yermakov was stabbed and killed at a bus stop in Oberhausen, Germany on February 10th. He went to Germany to get away from the war in Ukraine in July 2023.

    His friend, 18-year-old Artem Kozachenko, was stabbed six times and died in the hospital on February 20, after being in intensive care for 10 days, according to ART Giants.

    Both of them used to play for the club’s youth team in Düsseldorf.

    The ART Giants said the teenagers were very important to their team and they were very surprised and saddened by their deaths.

    The club wrote on Instagram that they will remember Volodymyr as a young person who lived joyfully and had big dreams in sports.

    This week, the club wrote on social media that Artem was a happy and funny person who was open to new ideas.

    Artem and Vova had a strong and close friendship that showed how important it is to have connections with other people in our lives.

    The couple was going back to Düsseldorf after shopping in Oberhausen when they were attacked at the city’s main train station around 8pm on February 10.

    A small group of 10 people made fun of them on the bus and asked if they were from Ukraine.

    The group attacked the people when they got off the bus at Oberhausen train station. They surrounded them and stabbed them many times in the chest and stomach where everyone could see.

    Volodymyr passed away in the hospital not long after.

    Artem was hurt with six knife cuts, but the doctors operated quickly and it seems like he will be okay.

  • Germany plans to legalise marijuana despite its challenges

    Germany plans to legalise marijuana despite its challenges

    The German government will decide whether to make it legal for people to use cannabis for fun.

    If the members of Parliament agree, people over 18 in Germany can have a lot of cannabis, but it will be hard to buy because there will be strict rules.

    From 1 April, it will be legal to smoke cannabis in many public places.

    You can have up to 25g (almost an ounce) of something in public and 50g in your home.

    In some parts of Germany, like Berlin, the police ignore people who smoke in public even though it’s against the law and they could get in trouble for it. Health Minister Karl Lauterbach says more and more young people are using drugs, even though it’s against the law. He wants to change the law to stop this.

    He wants to stop illegal selling, keep people safe from bad drugs, and stop criminals from making money.

    However, there will not be lots of legal cannabis cafes opening up everywhere right away.

    A big argument about making cannabis legal has been happening in Germany for a long time. Doctors worry about young people and some conservative people think that making the laws less strict will make more people use drugs.

    Like many times in Germany, the new law that the MPs are going to vote on is hard to understand.

    Using marijuana near schools and sports grounds will still be against the law in some places. Importantly, the government will closely control the market to make it difficult to buy the drug.

    The idea to let shops and pharmacies sell cannabis has been dropped because the EU is worried it could cause more drugs to be sent to other countries.

    Instead, groups of people that are not trying to make money, called “cannabis social clubs”, will be allowed to grow and give out a small amount of the drug.

    Each club can only have up to 500 members. People can’t smoke or use marijuana at the club. Only people who live in Germany can join the club.

    You can grow up to three marijuana plants at home.

    This means that in Germany, people can have a lot of drugs, but it’s hard to buy them. For example, having 25g of drugs is like having a lot of strong joints.

    People who smoke a lot would be happy, but people who only smoke sometimes would have a hard time buying it legally and visitors wouldn’t be allowed to buy it. Critics say this will just make the illegal market for goods grow.

    In the next few years, the government will study how the new law affects things, and might start selling cannabis legally.

    However, because the debate has been difficult, we cannot be certain about anything.

    On the other hand, the conservative opposition says that if they win the election next year, they will get rid of the law completely. Germany probably won’t become the new Amsterdam in Europe for a while.

  • Ghana is doing far better than other countries; control your spending – Hawa Koomson

    Ghana is doing far better than other countries; control your spending – Hawa Koomson

    During a recent interview on Onua FM’s morning show, Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture, Mavis Hawa Koomson, highlighted Ghana’s relative economic stability compared to other countries, urging citizens to control their spending.

    Koomson pointed out that even in developed countries like Germany, people face challenges such as limited access to electricity, which affects their daily routines.

    She noted that in Germany, many people only bathe twice a week due to electricity rationing, emphasizing that she was referring to Germany and not Nigeria.

    The minister emphasized that while times are tough everywhere, Ghana is faring better in comparison to other countries.

    “Today, go to Germany, many people don’t bath regularly due to electricity. They bath twice a week, because there is no light, no water. There is a time given them to use electricity. I’m talking about Germany and not Nigeria.

    “Things are difficult everywhere but when you compare Ghana to other countries, Ghana is doing far better,” she said.

    She urged Ghanaians to be mindful of their spending habits and to appreciate the relative stability and access to basic amenities they enjoy in Ghana.

  • McCann suspect faces unrelated sex offences in Germany

    McCann suspect faces unrelated sex offences in Germany

    The main person accused of making three-year-old Madeleine McCann disappear is going to court in Germany on Friday for different sex crimes.

    Christian Brückner will go to court in the city of Braunschweig. He is accused of raping three people and sexually abusing two others between 2000 and 2017 in Portugal.

    He is already in prison for seven years for raping someone.

    Brückner has not been accused of making Madeleine McCann go missing.

    He said he didn’t do it.

    A three-year-old girl from Britain went missing from a vacation apartment in Praia da Luz in Portugal in 2007. It’s still one of the most well-known cases of someone who is missing in the world.

    Christian Brückner, who is 47 years old, was named by German investigators in 2020 as a suspect in a murder case. He was then formally accused by Portuguese authorities.

    But Brückner has not been officially accused in the McCann case, and the German investigation details have not been made public.

    Caution: Some of the information about the German case might be upsetting.

    On Friday, he will appear in court in Braunschweig, Lower Saxony for the first time since being connected to Madeleine McCann’s disappearance.

    He is being accused of five different crimes in Portugal. The trial will be decided by judges, not a jury.

    A woman between 70 and 80 years old was raped in her vacation home in Portugal sometime between 2000 and 2006.

    Between 2000 and 2006, a girl who speaks German was raped at a house in Praia de Luz where she lived. She was at least 14 years old.

    In 2004, a woman from Ireland was raped in her vacation apartment in Praia da Rocha. It is said that the man broke in from her balcony.

    In all three instances of rape, Brückner is accused of hitting the victim and recording the attacks.

    In 2007, a 10-year-old German girl was sexually abused at a beach in Salema. This happened 3. 5 weeks before Madeleine McCann went missing.

    In 2017, during a festival in Bartolomeu de Messines, a man made an 11-year-old girl watch a sex act at a playground.

    The trial is happening in the north-western state of Lower Saxony because that’s where Brückner was last officially signed up.

    Under German law, he might go to prison for five to 15 years if he is proven to be guilty.

    Brückner’s lawyer, Friedrich Fülscher, said before that the accusations are not solid and recently told the BBC that he thinks his client will not say much during the trial.

    The lawyer said not to think badly about it.

    Christian Brückner was born in Germany in December 1976 and spent time in foster care when he was young.

    Authorities say that Brückner lived in the Algarve from 1995 to 2007 and worked in various jobs during that time.

    BBC Panorama looked at some of his records from Portugal. They show that he has been convicted many times for small crimes, stealing and rape.

    After Madeleine McCann went missing, they didn’t look into Brückner very much.

    However, the police in Portugal said they think the parents of the three-year-old are possibly involved.

    In 2008, Kate and Gerry McCann’s suspect status was removed, and they were later given an apology for how the police handled their case.

    Bruckner moved between Germany and Portugal many times.

    He is in jail for seven years for raping a 72-year-old American tourist in Praia da Luz in 2005.

    This trial will decide if he stays in jail after his sentence ends in December 2026.

  • Trial for lookalike murder begins for German woman

    Trial for lookalike murder begins for German woman

    A German woman is on trial for allegedly killing a woman who resembled her to fake her own death. The case is called the “doppelganger murder”.

    Sharaban K, who is 24 years old, and a 25-year-old man are accused of choosing the victim because of her appearance and age.

    The lawyers say she was going to hide and start a new life, but she got caught the next day.

    She and the person she was with say they did not do what they are accused of.

    The court papers say that a 23-year-old man named Sharaban K, who is German-Iraqi, looked for women who resembled him on Instagram and then tried to meet them by making different promises.

    The lawyers say that a 23-year-old woman from Algeria named Khadidja O was told she could get free treatment at a beauty salon.

    She was taken from Eppingen to Ingolstadt in Bavaria by the two accused. They picked her up in the town of Eppingen in southern Germany and drove her to Ingolstadt.

    During the journey, prosecutors say the person was stabbed 56 times and hit on the head before her body was left in a forest in Sharaban K’s black Mercedes car.

    When they found her body, people thought that Sharaban K had died. However, she and a 25-year-old man named Sheqir K, were taken by the police as possible suspects the day after they were seen at a nearby pizzeria.

    Sharaban K’s family comes from a Yazidi community in northern Iraq. It is said that her failed marriage might be the reason she tried to fake her own death, as reported by German media.

    After looking at more evidence and talking to people who saw what happened and looking at their online conversations, the police decided to charge the two people with more crimes.

    The couple is also believed to have paid someone to kill her ex-partner’s brother. The person who was supposed to do the killing did not do it even after getting €5,000.

    Also, while in jail, the man tried to get another prisoner to kill people who saw what happened.

    The trial on Tuesday was delayed for a long time. The lawyers defending the accused said they couldn’t have a fair trial because the prosecutors had given them more documents at the last minute. They needed more time to look at them, so they asked for the trial to be postponed.

    The prosecution said they didn’t agree with the argument. They explained that it’s normal to submit more documents after being charged with a crime.

    Next week, the court will decide if they should stop the trial for a while.

  • Germans met to plan over together “mass deportations”

    Germans met to plan over together “mass deportations”

    The leader of Germany, Olaf Scholz, spoke out against a meeting where they talked about sending millions of people out of the country because of their extreme political views.

    The news in Germany reported that some politicians from the far-right AfD and neo-Nazis had a meeting at a fancy house near a lake outside Berlin.

    The government talked about sending away people who aren’t German, even if they’re citizens.

    Mr Scholz said nobody should be treated unfairly because of where they come from in Germany.

    The Correctiv investigative outlet said that around 20 people went to a secret meeting near Potsdam, outside Berlin, in November.

    Correctiv said that some important people from the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) were involved, including Roland Hartwig, who is a close friend of party leader Alice Weidel.

    Neo-Nazis from Germany and Austria, and at least one member of the white supremacist Generation Identity group, went to the event.

    Two people from the centre-right Christian Democrats (CDU) party also took part.

    A German politician was arrested after someone complained about them using a Nazi slogan.
    Germany’s far-right AfD party won the first city mayor election.

    Many people talked about “remigration,” which means sending people with non-German backgrounds out of Germany, even if they are citizens.

    Correctiv said that people didn’t disagree with the plan in general, they just had concerns about whether it could actually work.

    The AfD officially doesn’t support the idea of sending people back to their home countries. Gerrit Huy, a member of the German Parliament from the AfD, said she has believed in the idea “for years”.

    She said the AfD no longer opposed dual citizenship because it would make it easier to take away a migrant’s German citizenship if they had another one.

    The party told the AFP news agency that Mr Hartwig went to the conference, but said it would not change its migration policy.

    Chancellor Scholz said on X (formerly Twitter): “We won’t let anyone treat people differently in our country because they are immigrants or not. ”

    He warned people going to the meeting that some of them might be looked into by the domestic intelligence agency.

    We can’t just say we learn from history, we have to really mean it.

    Last year, a new member of the AfD party in Bavarian Parliament was arrested by police for making Nazi gestures.

    The far-right party is now the second most popular in Germany, after the CDU.

  • Tractor-wielding farmers roadblock Berlin after reduction of subsidies

    Tractor-wielding farmers roadblock Berlin after reduction of subsidies

    Farmers in Germany are blocking roads with tractors to protest against cuts in subsidies. Around 200 tractors are parked near Berlin’s Brandenburg Gate.

    There are also traffic jams in Baden-Württemberg, North Rhine-Westphalia, Saxony and Bavaria.

    The government reduced subsidies to save money because a court said their budget plan was against the law.

    The cuts didn’t work and now people are worried that the argument will make the far right more popular.

    In response to the blockades, Interior Minister Nancy Faeser said that blocking people from going to work, school, or to see a doctor will make people upset and cause arguments.

    The farmers are very angry, and their group, DBV, wants the government to stop all the plans to reduce subsidies for farmers.

    “Joachim Rukwied, the head of DBV, said that if things don’t change, there won’t be enough good food available. ”

    Ministers are rushing to fix a money problem of tens of billions of euros after a big decision in November by Germany‘s highest court. The court said the government’s budget was not allowed.

    However, later ideas to stop giving farmers tax breaks for agricultural diesel have been weakened. Now, the change will happen gradually over time. The government decided not to get rid of special treatment in vehicle tax.

    However, farmers are still angry and a group of protesters stopped the Vice Chancellor Robert Habeck from getting off a ferry last week.

    The protest caused a lot of people to be angry and worried that political discussions in Germany are becoming more extreme.

    But the other leader of the far right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, Alice Weidel, said that the incident proved that the vice chancellor was not being respected anymore.

    “He would rather escape on a ferry than talk,” she wrote.

    The AfD is getting more popular in the polls and has been scoring higher than the three parties in power.

    The group in charge of Germany is having a lot of arguments and it’s causing tension.

    Important local elections will happen later this year in three eastern states – Saxony, Brandenburg and Thuringia. These elections will show how the people in these areas are feeling.

    Train drivers are going to go on strike, which will create more problems for the government.

    The GDL union in Germany has announced that its members will go on strike starting this Wednesday because they are in a disagreement with the railway company Deutsche Bahn over their wages.

    As the tractors arrive in central Berlin, it is a bad start to the year for Chancellor Scholz’s government. It also comes with predictions of slow economic growth for a country that is often called the EU’s “powerhouse”.

  • Hospital fire near Hamburg claims lives of four patients

    Hospital fire near Hamburg claims lives of four patients

    Four people have died in a fire at a hospital near the city of Hamburg in northern Germany.

    The fire started around 10:45 PM local time (9:45 PM GMT) on Thursday on the third floor of the Helios Clinic in Uelzen.

    About 20 people got hurt, and the police think more people might die because some injuries are really bad.

    Officials are trying to find out why the fire started.

    140 firefighters and people who rescue others, including some from nearby areas, worked hard to control the fire. According to reports, some people were saved from the clinic using ladders.

    The police said that people inside the building called for help.

    Uelzen is about 70 kilometers (43 miles) to the southeast of Hamburg.

    All four people who died were patients.

    However, the police mentioned that more people might have died. “There are more people who are very badly hurt and might die,” said spokesperson Michel Koenemann.

    The fire is believed to have caused about €1m (£862,000) in damage.

    The Helios Clinic is a hospital where doctors learn from the Hannover Medical School. The clinic’s website says it has around 750 workers and helps about 42,000 patients each year.

  • Transport behemoth claims Red Sea route still too risky

    Transport behemoth claims Red Sea route still too risky

    One of the world’s largest shipping companies, Germany’s Hapag-Lloyd, told the media it would avoid the Red Sea for at least another week and then reassess the situation following recent attacks by Houthi rebels in Yemen.

    Iran-backed rebels, who have declared their support for Hamas, are targeting ships using the popular Suez Canal shipping route.

    The group has previously claimed its attacks target ships linked to Israel, in response to the war in Gaza. Shipping companies are worried about the safety of their employees as some ships have been attacked by drones and missiles.

    The US Navy destroyed three Houthi “small boats” over the weekend as their crew tried to board a container ship in the Red Sea.

    Hapag-Lloyd sends 50 ships through the Suez Canal each month and will have to reroute around the Cape of Good Hope, which will add a week or two to journey time depending on the destination.

  • Germany’s stern finance minister Wolfgang Schäuble passes away at 81

    Germany’s stern finance minister Wolfgang Schäuble passes away at 81

    Wolfgang Schäuble, the esteemed finance minister known for his no-nonsense approach, has died at the age of 81.

    Schäuble, a prominent figure in German politics, served as Chancellor Angela Merkel’s finance minister for many years, playing a crucial role in navigating the country through economic challenges.

    His passing marks the end of an era and is met with reflections on his impactful contributions to Germany’s financial landscape.

    Current Chancellor Olaf Scholz said he had shaped his country for more than half a century and Germany had lost “a sharp thinker, a passionate politician and a pugnacious Democrat”.

    Posting on X, formerly Twitter, Former UK Chancellor George Osborne praised Schäuble as “a great man, who had unified his country and was the last of the post-war Germans”.

    For many Greeks, however, he was a hate figure during the eurozone debt crisis, as architect of a highly unpopular austerity programme imposed on their country. Former finance minister Yanis Varoufakis said history would “judge him harshly”.

    Wolfgang Schäuble joined the conservative CDU party in 1965 and entered the Bundestag seven years later when he was 30.

    As interior minister of West Germany, he co-signed the treaty in East Berlin that unified the country in August 1990. He later called reunification “the high point of my political life”.

    Nine days after Germany was formally reunited, he was shot in the spinal cord and jaw during an election campaign event and used a wheelchair for the rest of his life.

    He returned to the public stage months later with an impassioned call for the reunified country’s capital to be moved from Bonn to Berlin.

    West German Interior Minister Wolfgang Schaeuble (L) and East German State Secretary Guenter Krause (R) sign the contract on German reunification as East German Prime Minister Lother de Maiziere (C) looks on, August 31, 1990

    Wolfgang Schäuble (L) signed Germany’s reunification treaty on 31 August 1990 weeks before he was shot in the spine
    He went on to lead the CDU in 1998, until Angela Merkel took over in 2000 in the middle of a party donations scandal.

    On becoming Germany’s chancellor in 2005, she appointed him first as interior minister then later as finance minister, where he spent eight years focused on balancing the German budget.

    He achieved Germany’s so-called schwarze Null or black zero budget deficit in 2014 and he was widely viewed as the driving force behind the austerity policies adopted by the eurozone in response to the debt crisis that began in 2008.

    “Greece’s debt crisis and the crises it generated offer a clear warning to European policymakers not to allow public debt to pile up indefinitely,” he told the European Parliament in 2011.

    His no-nonsense approach to the eurozone crisis led him to proposing a Greek “time-out” from the euro, although that was rejected by Athens.

    As Greece took on three international bail-out loans, taxes rose, salaries and pensions were slashed and unemployment soared.

    Leaving government in 2017, Schäuble became president of the Bundestag. He was its longest-serving MP, winning 14 constituency elections.

    In a speech to the European Parliament four years ago, Wolfgang Schäuble said that without European unification, east and west, there would have been no German reunification, and he warned that the “rules-based international order was under pressure”.

    He withdrew from frontline politics only last year.

  • UK, Germany calls for ceasefire in Israel-Gaza conflict

    UK, Germany calls for ceasefire in Israel-Gaza conflict


    During the weekend, three nations aligned with Israel issued a joint appeal for an end to the hostilities in Gaza.

    UK Foreign Secretary David Cameron, in collaboration with Germany’s Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock, urged for a ceasefire in the Israel-Gaza conflict, emphasizing the condition that it should be deemed “sustainable.”

    Cameron and Baerbock jointly wrote an article for the UK’s Sunday Times, saying: “Our goal cannot simply be an end to fighting today. It must be peace lasting for days, years, generations.”

    Last week, the United Kingdom and Germany opted to abstain from a United Nations resolution supported by 153 nations, which called for an urgent humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza.

    French Foreign Minister Catherine Colonna expressed concern, stating that “too many civilians are being killed.”

  • Far-right militants in Germany accused of plotting coup

    Far-right militants in Germany accused of plotting coup

    German lawyers accuse 27 people of planning a violent takeover because of their extreme right-wing views.

    The suspects are accused of being part of a group called Reichsbürger, which is not well-known.

    The group’s members didn’t like the government and the democratic constitution, according to the accusation.

    Most of them are friends of Heinrich XIII Prince Reuss, a leader in the Reichsbürger movement from a noble family.

    The prosecutors have accused 27 people of trying to remove Germany’s democratic government.

    Plans were made for a coup to start in summer 2021.

    The plan was to take control by attacking Germany’s parliament, the Bundestag, with a small group of armed people. The attack will start when we get a signal, like if Queen Elizabeth II dies.

    The people who were accused of planning the coup had already decided how their new government would work.

    Prince Reuss was going to be the leader of the country. When he started his job, he would talk with the countries that won World War II to make a peace agreement. Prince Reuss attempted to talk to Russian government officials to get their help with the coup, say the prosecutors.

    Birgit Malsack-Winkemann, who was a member of a far-right political party, was going to be appointed as the justice minister. Prosecutors said she allowed other people involved in the plan to enter the parliamentary buildings.

    It is said that the people who wanted to rebel tried to convince soldiers and police to join them.

    The group made lists of people they didn’t like. Members knew that their plans would cause people to die, according to the charges.

    The people had to promise not to tell anyone about what happened. People who broke the law would have been killed for betraying their country.

    The people who were thought to be planning something had a lot of guns and bullets – about 380 guns and 148,000 bullets.

    Some people were arrested by the police in December.

    Germany’s internal intelligence agency, the Office for the Protection of the Constitution, says that there are around 23,000 people who support the Reichsbürger movement in the country.

  • Ex-Black Stars coach Akonnor’s son triumphs with U-17 World Cup with Germany

    Ex-Black Stars coach Akonnor’s son triumphs with U-17 World Cup with Germany


    Charles Kwablan Herrmann,     the son of former Ghana coach Charles Akonnor, has achieved World Cup glory with Germany as they secured the U-17 FIFA World Cup trophy.

    This historic victory marks Germany’s first-ever world championship at the U-17 level, achieved through a dramatic penalty shootout against France.

    Herrmann, following in his father’s footballing footsteps, played a significant role throughout the tournament held in Indonesia. He made five appearances, scored a goal, and provided three assists.

    The intense final at the Manahan Stadium in Jakarta witnessed Borussia Dortmund’s Paris Brunner open the scoring with a penalty in the first half, followed by a goal from team captain Noah Darvich after the break.

    Despite facing a one-man disadvantage after midfielder Winners Osawe was sent off, Germany held their ground.

    France, however, narrowed the gap with a goal from Monaco’s Saimon Bouabre three minutes later. The match took another turn when France equalised with a tap-in goal from Mathis Amougou in the 85th minute.

    The resilient German defence held firm, leading the game into a penalty shootout. Robert Ramsak, Max Moerstadt, Fayssal Harchaoui, and Almugera Kabar converted their penalties, securing a 4-3 victory for Germany.

    This U-17 World Cup triumph adds to Germany’s recent European championship win at the same level in June.

    Herrmann, a player for the Dortmund U-19 team, had previously played a crucial role in securing the U17 European championship for Germany.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tGW1IqIANYE
  • Germany court found Gambian guilty of serving in a death squad

    Germany court found Gambian guilty of serving in a death squad

    A man from Gambia who lives in Germany has been given a life sentence for being part of a group that killed people for the ex-president of Gambia, Yahya Jammeh.

    The man’s name is Bai L. Drove for the group called the “Junglers”. He was proven to have done very bad things, like killing and trying to kill people, and he was found guilty.

    In 2019, during a Gambia investigation, three people accused Mr Jammeh of ordering many murders, including the 2013 killings of two US-Gambian businessmen and journalist Deyda Hydara.

    Bai L committed a few crimes. The news agency AFP says that someone is being accused of helping to stop Hydara’s car before he was killed and then driving one of the attackers away.

    After being president for 22 years, Mr. Jammeh didn’t want to give up being president when he lost the election in 2016. After other regions sent armies to make him leave, he decided to live in a different place.

    According to Human Rights Watch, the trial could happen in Germany because it has the power to prosecute serious crimes no matter where they happened.

  • Leroy Sane apologises to teammates, fans for seeing red after shoving his hands into Phillipp Mwene’s face

    Leroy Sane apologises to teammates, fans for seeing red after shoving his hands into Phillipp Mwene’s face


    Leroy Sane extended     an apology to the fans following his red card during Germany’s recent defeat against Austria.

    The Germany and Bayern Munich star expressed remorse for his actions during the friendly match, where he was sent off in the 49th minute for a confrontation that involved shoving an opponent in the face.

    Sane’s dismissal proved costly, as Julian Nagelsmann’s side went on to suffer a 2-0 loss in his absence.

    Austria took the lead in the 29th minute, courtesy of former Manchester United midfielder Marcel Sabitzer, and Christoph Baumgartner sealed the victory for the hosts in the 73rd minute.

    This defeat marked Germany’s sixth in the calendar year and the second since the appointment of former Bayern Munich manager Nagelsmann to lead the team.

    Sane’s red card added to the challenges faced by Germany, highlighting the team’s struggles under Nagelsmann’s leadership.

    After the match, Sane took to Twitter to issue an apology, which read: “An evening to forget in Vienna. I apologised to my teammates in the dressing room for the action.

    “Despite all my emotion and ambition, this can’t happen to me, especially in our current situation. A big sorry to our fans too. We have a lot of work ahead of us to make 2024 a successful year for us.”

    Despite the disappointment in the international friendly, the 27-year-old has been thriving at the club level this season.

    In 18 matches for Bayern Munich, he has impressively scored nine goals and provided seven assists. Fans can anticipate his next performance for the club on Saturday when Bayern faces FC Koln in the Bundesliga.

  • Nigeria and Germany sign gas supply deal

    Nigeria and Germany sign gas supply deal

    Nigeria and Germany agreed to work together on a deal that will send more gas to Germany. The deal also includes $500 million in renewable energy investments for Nigeria.

    Nigeria’s leader said that a gas contract was approved at a business conference in Berlin between Riverside LNG project in the Niger Delta and a German company called Johannes Schuetze Energy Import.

    David Ige, who is helping with the Nigerian project, said they will send a lot of energy from Nigeria to Germany each year. At first, it will be 850,000 tons, but it will increase to 1. 2 million tons later on. The first gas from the agreement will be sent to Germany in 2026.

    The Union Bank of Nigeria and the DWS Group agreed for the German company to invest $500 million in renewable energy projects in Nigeria.

    Germany is talking to Siemens, a big electronics company, to help Nigeria make its electricity supply better because Nigeria often has no power. This was reported by German state broadcaster Deutsche Welle.

    German leader Olaf Scholz promised to give more money to help Nigeria’s important minerals and energy industries when he talked with President Bola Tinubu in Abuja in October.

  • Ruto finds 200,000 employment opportunities for Kenyans in Germany

    Ruto finds 200,000 employment opportunities for Kenyans in Germany

    President William Ruto wants to help Kenyans get jobs in Germany because there are not enough jobs in Kenya.

    He created the plan just before leaving for Europe for a G20 meeting.

    Over twelve African leaders are going to Berlin, Germany to look for ways to boost Africa’s economy, like exporting workers and getting more money invested in their countries.

    The leader of Germany visited Kenya around three to four months ago. I am going to Germany tonight because he said he will make sure 200,000 people get jobs. I need to go check out those chances,” Mr Ruto said on Sunday.

    Chancellor Olaf Scholz has been visiting Africa, including Kenya and Nigeria. He is interested in increasing investment in Africa, especially in minerals and green energy.

    This meeting called G20 Compact with Africa wants to make the economy stronger by connecting African countries with G20 countries.

    Thirteen African countries are in the program – Benin, Burkina Faso, Ivory Coast, Democratic Republic of Congo, Egypt, Ethiopia, Ghana, Guinea, Morocco, Rwanda, Senegal, Togo, and Tunisia.

    Leaders from other African countries, like Kenya and Nigeria, are coming to the event as special guests.

  • Four-year-old captive detained on Hamburg airport’s tarmac

    Four-year-old captive detained on Hamburg airport’s tarmac

    The police in Germany are handling a situation where someone has taken hostages at Hamburg airport. This person drove through a fence meant to keep people safe and onto the area where planes take off and land.

    A 35-year-old man and a 4-year-old child are still in a car parked under a plane.

    The police are talking to the driver who came to the airport on Saturday night at around 8:00 PM local time (7:00 PM GMT).

    All flights at the airport are stopped and there is no time given for when they will start again.

    The police think that a disagreement over who gets custody of a child is the reason behind this plan.

    The police say that the person being investigated fired their gun two times up into the sky and also threw bottles that were on fire from their car.

    He drove his car to the part of the airport where planes usually park, called the apron.

    We are at a location with many emergency workers. Hamburg police said on X, which is a platform called Twitter, that we are currently thinking that there is a situation where someone is being held hostage and it is not changing.

    Psychologists and specially trained officers who negotiate are at the location, the police said. They are also supported by special forces.

    On Sunday morning, the Hamburg police said that the situation had not yet been resolved.

  • President of Germany, Frank-Walter embarrassed by colonial crimes

    President of Germany, Frank-Walter embarrassed by colonial crimes

    Germany’s President Frank-Walter Steinmeier has expressed deep regret for the atrocities committed during the era of German colonial rule in Tanzania.

    Mr. Steinmeier made these remarks while visiting a museum in the Tanzanian city of Songea, which serves as a memorial to the Maji Maji uprising that occurred at the beginning of the last century and was brutally quelled by German authorities.

    During this brutal suppression, it is estimated that as many as 300,000 people lost their lives, primarily due to the systematic destruction of fields and villages by German troops.

    The visit to the museum marked the conclusion of a three-day tour of Tanzania.

  • Germany begs for pardon for its colonial misdeeds in Tanzani

    Germany begs for pardon for its colonial misdeeds in Tanzani

    The president of Germany said he feels “very sorry” for the bad things his country did to Tanzania during their time as a colony.

    German soldiers murdered nearly 300,000 individuals during the Maji Maji rebellion in the early 1900s. This rebellion was one of the deadliest revolts against colonial rule.

    President Frank-Walter Steinmeier was talking at a museum in Songea, where the uprising happened.

    “I want to apologize for what Germans did to your ancestors,” he said.

    “What occurred here is the history we both have, the history of your relatives and the history of our relatives in Germany. ”

    The Maji Maji rebellion happened because the Germans wanted the local people to grow cotton to sell to other countries.

    Tanzania used to be a part of German East Africa, along with Rwanda, Burundi, and some parts of Mozambique.

    President Steinmeier expressed his desire for Tanzania and Germany to collaborate in dealing with their shared history.

    Mr Steinmeier talked about bringing back human remains and said Germany will look for solutions to the unanswered questions that bother you.

    On Tuesday, Germany’s leader said they will work together with Tanzania to bring back important cultural items. They made this promise after meeting with Tanzania’s President in Dar es Salaam.

    Tanzania historian Mohamed Said appreciated the apology, but he expressed to the BBC that he felt it was not sufficient.

    They chose to burn down farms in order to make people run out of food and not be able to fight. He said it is not okay. In today’s world, they would go to court.

    In 2021, Germany officially admitted to doing something very wrong during its time ruling Namibia.

  • German lawmaker detained over criticism of Nazi slogan

    German lawmaker detained over criticism of Nazi slogan

    A German politician has been taken into custody for reportedly showing Nazi symbols. This happened because people frequently heard “Sieg Heil” being said at the place where his fraternity meets.

    Daniel Halemba, who is 22 years old, was chosen to be a member of the Bavarian parliament this month. He belongs to the Alternative for Germany (AfD) political party.

    The police inspected the building of the Teutonia Prag student group and discovered some Nazi signs.

    Mr Halemba was taken into custody a few hours before he was supposed to be protected as a Member of Parliament.

    He is one of 32 members elected for the AfD in Bavaria, where it is now the biggest opposition party in the state.

    Last month, the police in Würzburg entered Mr. Halemba’s fraternity building. The neighbors had complained about hearing shouts of “Sieg Heil” coming from inside.

    The officers took away things that were not allowed and the raid proved that the things that the neighbors accused were true.

    The phrase was an important slogan used by Nazis and is not allowed to be used in Germany.

    Police issued a document saying that they wanted to arrest someone on Friday. They found Mr Halemba near Stuttgart, in the state of Baden-Württemberg, on Monday morning.

    The prosecutors told the BBC that they thought Mr. Halemba might try to escape because he had been hiding since October 26th.

    In Germany, it is illegal to use symbols or images associated with the Nazi party.

    Officials also claim that he tried to convince other members of the fraternity to alter their statements, which they believe is evidence of collusion or hiding evidence.

    They want to catch me and put me in jail. “Before he was arrested, Mr. Halemba said in a video on social media that the arrest warrant was completely illegal. ”

    His lawyer, Dubravko Mandic, said that the accusations against his client were not true.

    Katrin Ebner-Steiner, the person in charge of the AfD party in the Bavarian parliament, criticized a legal action that she believes is driven by political motives.

    The AfD has had very good results in recent elections.

    The party against immigration got the third position in the Bavarian election that happened this month. Additionally, they came in second place in the state of Hesse.

    The party is now frequently ranked second in national polls. Germany will have its next federal election in the year 2025.

  • Hamburg scaffolding collapses killing three

    Hamburg scaffolding collapses killing three

    At least three workers have died after the standing structure fell down at a construction site in the German city of Hamburg, as confirmed by the firefighting officials.

    Many more people were hurt, and it is believed that there are still people trapped under the scaffolding.

    The incident occurred on Monday morning at a big construction site called Uberseequartier in the HafenCity district.

    The workers were probably constructing an elevator tunnel at that moment.

    The Hamburg fire department first said that five men died, but now they have changed that number to be lower.

    According to news in Germany, many emergency workers are at the location to search for people trapped under the rubble. The area has been cleared of people.

    Many people are working at a construction site. The site is being developed and will have offices, houses, hotels, and shops.

  • 60,000 Ghanaians living in Germany – GH. Support Association

    60,000 Ghanaians living in Germany – GH. Support Association

    Founder and Chairman of GH. Support Association, Germany, Gee Queue, says about 60,000 Ghanaians are residing in Germany.

    In an interview on JoyNews’ The Pulse on Thursday, October 26, Gee Queue noted that there are about 60,000 Ghanaians living in Germany, and about 5,000 to 7,000 of the figure are illegal migrants.

    This implies that about 11 percent risk deportation at a time when the German Cabinet has passed legislation aimed at facilitating the deportation of unsuccessful asylum-seekers.

    “I think Ghanaians could be 60,000 across the country but might not include those with the German passports because those with the German passports are not considered Ghanaians, but we see them as Ghanaians because on the passport, the place of birth says Obuasi, Accra,” Gee Queue said.

    “We see Germany as a good place to start your life,” Gee Queue explained as the reason for the significant immigration into the country.

    “Those 60,000 are general, and there are those who have stay permits. But those that might be deported run around 5,000 to 7,000,” he added.

    Illegal migration, long a topic of hot debate across Europe and within Germany, has continued to put pressure on politicians to come up with an effective migration policy.

    As such, the German Cabinet, under Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s leadership, on Wednesday, October 25, approved a legislative proposal on Wednesday to streamline the deportation process for unsuccessful asylum-seekers, addressing the pressing issue of migration in the political landscape.

    This draft legislation, contingent on parliamentary approval, introduces several significant provisions. 

    It extends the maximum period of pre-deportation detention from 10 days to 28 days, expedites the deportation of individuals associated with criminal organizations, and grants authorities the ability to conduct residential searches to confirm an individual’s identity conclusively. 

    In some cases, it also eliminates the requirement for advance notice of deportations, per reports from international tabloids.

    In Germany, a significant portion of rejected asylum-seekers are granted temporary stays for various reasons, which may include medical conditions, having a child with residency status, or challenges in obtaining proper identification.

    Nevertheless, deportations can face obstacles stemming from a variety of factors, some of which are addressed by the newly proposed legislation. These challenges may also involve uncooperative attitudes from the migrants’ home countries. Germany is actively engaged in negotiations with various nations to address this issue while simultaneously promoting legal pathways for immigration.

  • About 7,000 Ghanaian immigrants in Germany risk deportation

    About 7,000 Ghanaian immigrants in Germany risk deportation

    Founder and Chairman of GH. Support Association, Germany, Gee Queue, has noted that about 5,000 to 7,000 Ghanaian immigrants in Germany risk deportation.

    On Wednesday, October 25, the German Cabinet passed legislation aimed at facilitating the deportation of unsuccessful asylum-seekers.

    Data published by the German Federal Police on Saturday revealed that 21,366 individuals entered Germany illegally in September. 

    This figure marks the highest monthly count of “unauthorized entries” into the country since February 2016, when 25,650 people arrived following the peak of the “refugee crisis.” This recent trend of rising entry numbers spans seven consecutive months.

    According to police data, 92,119 individuals entered Germany illegally between January and September 2023. This puts the country on a trajectory to surpass the 112,000 people who illegally entered in 2016.

    In an interview on JoyNews’ The Pulse on Thursday, October 26, monitored by The Independent Ghana, Gee Queue noted that there are about 60,000 Ghanaians living in Germany, and about 11 percent risk deportation.

    Founder and Chairman of GH. Support Association, Germany, Gee Queue

    “I think Ghanaians could be 60,000 across the country but might not include those with the German passports because those with the German passports are not considered Ghanaians, but we see them as Ghanaians because on the passport, the place of birth says Obuasi, Accra.”

    “We see Germany as a good place to start your life,” he explained as the reason for the significant immigration into the country.

    “Those 60,000 are general, and there are those who have stay permits. But those that might be deported run around 5,000 to 7,000,” he added.

    This comes at a time when illegal migration, long a topic of hot debate across Europe and within Germany, has continued to put pressure on politicians to come up with an effective migration policy.

    As such, the German Cabinet, under Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s leadership, approved a legislative proposal on Wednesday to streamline the deportation process for unsuccessful asylum-seekers, addressing the pressing issue of migration in the political landscape.

    This draft legislation, contingent on parliamentary approval, introduces several significant provisions. 

    It extends the maximum period of pre-deportation detention from 10 days to 28 days, expedites the deportation of individuals associated with criminal organizations, and grants authorities the ability to conduct residential searches to confirm an individual’s identity conclusively. 

    In some cases, it also eliminates the requirement for advance notice of deportations, per reports from international tabloids.

    In Germany, a significant portion of rejected asylum-seekers are granted temporary stays for various reasons, which may include medical conditions, having a child with residency status, or challenges in obtaining proper identification.

    Nevertheless, deportations can face obstacles stemming from a variety of factors, some of which are addressed by the newly proposed legislation. These challenges may also involve uncooperative attitudes from the migrants’ home countries. Germany is actively engaged in negotiations with various nations to address this issue while simultaneously promoting legal pathways for immigration.