Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) is facing allegations of attempting to sway the outcome of the Ballon d’Or in favour of Lionel Messi.
Le Monde reports that PSG officials tried to influence Pascal Ferre, the former editor-in-chief of France Football and Ballon d’Or organiser, by offering various favours.
The club is accused of seeking Ferre’s support with the aim of securing the Ballon d’Or for Messi during his tenure in Paris. The investigation is said to be centred around Jean-Martial Ribes, the former director of communications at PSG, according to Le Monde.
A report by the General Inspectorate of the National Police from November 2023 says: “Ribes requested to obtain tickets for PSG football matches by journalists, politicians, elected officials, members of ministerial cabinets or the presidency, artists.”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1r2TnbVINPs
Despite any attempts by PSG to influence Ballon d’Or officials, Lionel Messi did not secure the coveted trophy during his time at the club.
Messi, now with Inter Miami in MLS, clinched the Ballon d’Or for his exceptional 2022-23 season, notably leading Argentina to victory in the World Cup in Qatar.
The investigation into PSG’s alleged actions is ongoing. Meanwhile, PSG is set to resume action in the French Cup round of 64 on Sunday.
Brentford striker Ivan Toney expressed the “painful” experience of watching the 2022 World Cup while realising he could have been a part of the England squad.
Toney missed the tournament due to allegations of betting, which surfaced just before the Three Lions’ squad announcement.
Although he received an eight-month ban in May, the former Peterborough United star described the timing of the revelations about his betting rule violations as “spiteful.” He recently discussed the challenges of witnessing the competition, acknowledging that he could have participated if selected.
He told Sky Sports: “I did watch a bit [of the World Cup] but that was even more painful watching, knowing I could have been involved in that but listen, what’s done is done.
“I can’t change anything; yes, it was painful but life is painful sometimes. You have just got to fly by it and concentrate on what is in front rather than what is behind.”
Ivan Toney is poised to become a focal point of discussions during the January transfer window, with Brentford reportedly placing a £100 million valuation on him to ward off interest from Arsenal and Chelsea.
After an eight-month absence due to a ban, Toney is expected to make a return to first-team football on January 20, when Brentford faces Nottingham Forest.
However, uncertainties linger about his future at the club.
While his ban lasts until January 17,ruling him out of Brentford’s FA Cup third-round replay against Wolves on January 15, he might feature against Forest. Yet, if a substantial offer emerges this month, Toney could find himself at a new club in February.
Lille defender Tiago Djalo has instructed his agents to explore a potentialtransfer to Juventus as reported by Gianluca Di Marzio.
The 23-year-old, who started his career with Sporting CP and had a brief stint at AC Milan, joined Lille in 2019 for €5 million.
Despite receiving acclaim in Ligue 1, a cruciate ligament injury has kept him sidelined since March last year.
https://youtu.be/BlxFMpFpaDo
With Djalo now in the final six months of his contract at Lille, other clubs may seek a discounted deal this month.
While Inter Milan initially planned to sign Djalo on a free transfer in the summer, Juventus could expedite the process by offering a modest transfer fee of €3 million plus add-ons.
Although he was part of Portugal’s initial 55-man squad for the 2022 World Cup, Djalo has only been capped at the under-21 level.
Freedom Skatepark, Ghana’s inaugural skatepark, has reportedly been compelled to shut down merely two years after its inauguration.
According to a complex.com report, the skatepark, owned by the late Ghanaian-American fashion designer andentrepreneur Virgil Abloh, faced closure due to issues with “outside contractors.”
The information was gleaned from a social media post shared by Wole Olosunde, a designer and native New Yorker, who revealed that Abloh’s Freedom Skate Park had been closed off by a contractor who constructed a cement wall to bar skaters from access.
“Finally got to visit FREEDOM, the skate park Virgil Abloh built in Accra, Ghana. One of his last projects before he passed. I left heartbroken and confused. Cause why tf is no one talking about or fighting for this?” he wrote on Instagram.
Wole Olosunde, a designer based in New York, expressed bewilderment at the destruction of the park, which had become a haven for numerous Ghanaian skaters.
He claimed that approximately a year ago, a business owner took it upon themselves to “erect a cement wall and pour sand through the park” with the intention of preventing all skaters from accessing it.
“It has been like this for almost a full year, leaving these kids with nowhere to skate. To the point they built their own temporary skate park to be able to keep spreading the love of skating and building community.”
Wole Olosunde questioned the silence of authorities and the public regarding the closure of the park, which had been constructed with significant resources by the late Virgil Abloh.
Earlier reports in May 2023 indicated that the park, visited by Vice President Kamala Harris during her state visit to Ghana in March 2023, had been indefinitely closed.
A tweet from the verified page BlacVolta on Twitter suggested that the closure was a result of a land dispute.
“Accra’s first community-built skateboard park, Freedom Skatepark, has been closed indefinitely due to a land dispute that has put the park’s future in jeopardy.
“The dispute arose after a party claimed ownership of the land where the skatepark is located and allegedly started building a wall to block access to the site without notice or explanation,” the tweet said.
The tweet added that the owner of the park had to take to social media to appeal for help on how to keep his park safe from the intrusion from people.
“The owner of Freedom Skatepark, @Rooky_Rider, took to Instagram to call for help from the community, asking for contacts to help save the skatepark, as well as ratings on Google and donations to pay for legal fees.
“The closure of the park has caused concern among skateboarders and the local community, who see the park as an important space for youth engagement and healthy activity,” it added.
Another tweet, attributed to Rightify Ghana, shared a news clip from TV3 reporting that the venue had been targeted by an anti-LGBTQ+ group.
The group alleged that the place was “disguised in the name of skating” but was functioning as a headquarters for the gay community in Ghana.
The tweet further mentioned that the anti-gay group, identified as the Islamic Youth for Peace, had urged the police to intervene at the Shiashie venue.
Ghanaian businessman Meet Daniel McKorley, born on June 17, 1971, in Accra. Rising from poverty, McKorley has successfully established the McDan Group of Companies, a prominent transportation and logistics entity specialising in freight and contract logistics.
The McDan Group encompasses various businesses, including McDan Shipping, McDan Aviation, and McDan Logistics. Renowned in Sierra Leone, Equatorial Guinea, Liberia, and Ghana, McKorley’s enterprises have made a significant impact.
The headquarters of McDan Shipping Company is in Accra, with additional branches in Tema and Takoradi. The company has a global reach, operating in over 2000 major air and sea ports worldwide through partnerships with Cross Trades and the World Cargo Alliance (WCA).
McDan Shipping holds the distinction of being the first and only Freight Forwarding Company in Ghana to secure an Air Carrier License for handling chartered cargo flights. It currently serves as the General Sales Agent (GSA) for multiple airlines, as stated on the company’s website.
While Daniel McKorley is acknowledged as one of the wealthiest entrepreneurs in Ghana, his exact net worth remains undisclosed. Some Ghanaian news sources estimate his wealth to be between $600 million to $1 billion.
McKorley’s journey to success has been marked by challenges, a common narrative among entrepreneurs globally. Speaking at a startup summit in Accra on December 23, he shared his experience of making his first $1 million at 28, only to face setbacks and lose it all four years later.
“I made my first $1 million at the age of 28 years…you know one funny thing. I lost it all at the age of 32. Life is funny and there’s something called attitude,” he revealed.
McKorley blamed his losses on a lack of proper business principles and understanding at the time, according to Modern Ghana. “To make money, you need to apply certain principles, understanding and have the right attitude to make money,” he advised.
Daniel McKorley, the Ghanaian entrepreneur, has recently made headlines by expressing his interest in acquiring the English Premier League club Nottingham Forest. McKorley, a longtime supporter of the club, revealed his desire to invest in the team.
The 52-year-old investor is not only associated with Nottingham Forest but is also a dedicated supporter of the Ghana Premier League side, Accra Great Olympics.
This move signifies McKorley’s passion for football and his aspiration to contribute to the development and success of football clubs, both internationally and within the Ghanaian football scene.
“The only team I support in the world apart from Oly [Acrca Great Olympics] is Nottingham Forest,” he stated, according to Ghana’s Joy FM. “I have been a supporter of Nottingham Forest when Nottingham was even in the third division. Why? Because I want to buy that team. I want to buy Nottingham Forest imagine with all this development going on.”
According to him, should the takeover be successful, he will make sure that more Ghanaians get the opportunity to play for the club. “McDan buys Nottingham Forest and every time you see about 60% of the players [in the team] from the English league are from Ghana,” he said.
Recently, MccKorley’s commercial private jet services proudly announced the expansion of its fleet with the addition of two new aircraft. This strategic move reflects the company’s dedication to growth and solidifies its position as one of Africa’s premier private jet service providers.
One of the acquisitions is the Beechcraft King Air b200, a seven-seater aircraft designed for operations primarily in Ghana, the West Africa sub-region, and occasional flights to other parts of the continent.
The second addition is the Airbus EC135 T1 helicopter, intended for travel throughout Ghana and West Africa.
This helicopter serves dual purposes – providing clients with breathtaking scenic tours and functioning as a secondary medical transfer to connect geographically separated hospitals, facilitating swift patient transfers to appropriate medical facilities.
Minister of Education, Dr. Osei Yaw Adutwum, has faced public criticism for interpreting a commitment to review the government’s flagship Free Senior High School (Free SHS) policy as a complete cancellation.
The main opposition National Democratic Congress and its 2024 flagbearer have expressed their intention to assess and potentially revise the program if they assume office.
However, during the 63rd anniversary celebration of the Ghana Muslim Mission in Kumasi last weekend, the minister highlighted the achievements of the Free SHS policy and cautioned that any plans for a review could be counterproductive.
“President Akufo-Addo and his Vice, brought Free SHS and they have provided the needed support to make it a success and bring relief to parents,” he said.
“If anybody says they will review Free SHS it means one thing. That person wants to cancel it and we won’t allow that,” he stated.
That comment has elicited harsh reactions on social media platform Twitter (now X), with some asking how truthful the minister was being with his understanding.
X user @oheek1 tweeted: “You’re becoming unbecoming and annoying,” while
@AbdulBaakiAdam1 cued in: “So meaning IMF said Review means cancel it then,” in reference to government’s admission that all flagship programmes were up for review under the US$3bn bailout programme.
@Psthanley asked: “You & who are the we? ah ah,” before Hon Adu Tetteh
also posted “He is the minister of education. Hmm” Cyril LUMOR with the username @King_Lorzy reassigned the minister a portfolio, “MisEducation Minister.”
be succeeded in the Assin Central constituency following the 2024 general elections, as he did not submit nomination forms for the rulingNew Patriotic Party’s (NPP) parliamentary primaries.
This marks a significant change for the constituency, which has been represented by Agyapong for over 25 years.
Despite earlier speculations that potential successors like John Boadu, former General Secretary of the NPP, and acting director-general of the State Interests and Governance Authority (SIGA), or Ken Agyapong’s son, Kenneth Agyapong Jnr, might step in, neither candidate has picked up nomination forms for the NPP parliamentary primaries.
The vetting process for the four contenders who submitted forms took place on Wednesday, January 3, 2024.
1. Godfred Nti Anewu
Godfred Nti Anewu is a businessman, a philanthropist and a politician. This would be the first time he is contesting in the parliamentary primaries for Assin North.
2. Eric Kwadwo Baidoo
Eric Kwadwo Baidoo, a native of Assin Central, filed his nomination in the 2020 NPP parliamentary primaries to contest against Ken Agyapong but was disqualified.
Baidoo is well-educated, holding a bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from KNUST and an MBA in Finance and Accounting from Howard University in Washington, DC, classified among “R2: Doctoral Universities in the USA.”
Currently pursuing a second Master’s degree at Harvard University in Strategic Management and International Business, Baidoo’s professional journey has involved overseeing various manufacturing operations across Asia, Europe, and America.
3. Joseph Adjei-Banin
Joseph Adjei-Banin is the deputy director of State Protocol at the Presidency, who also doubles as the chairman of the Joseph Adjei-Banin Foundation, a non-governmental organization.
4. Obed Kumi Awuah
Obed Kumi, a businessman, gained attention when he contributed GHC50,000 in support of Ken Agyapong’s candidacy for the NPP presidential candidate.
OccupyGhana, a pressure group, has urged President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo to permit the Auditor-General to conduct an audit of the contract between the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and Strategic Mobilisation Limited (SML).
Additionally, the group has called for the revocation of the President’s appointment of a private audit firm to carry out the audit and urged compliance with Article 187 concerning the matter.
According to a statement from the group, Article 187 of the Constitution foresees situations where public interest in the financial matters of public auditee institutions, such as the GRA, may necessitate special audits.
The statement emphasised that Article 187(8) specifically stipulates that in such cases, the Council of State should advise the President on the need for an “Article 187(8) Public Interest Audit.”
“Indeed, and in practice, the President may seek and then obtain that advice. Then, the President would request the Auditor-General to conduct the audit.
“This provision in Article 187 is so critical and significant that the Constitution specifically sets it down as the only instance where a President has the power to request the independent Auditor-General to do anything.”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L25o3FE9dmo
The statement from OccupyGhana further emphasised the importance of the Council of State promptly providing advice to the President regarding the matter.
In the event of failure, neglect, or refusal by the Council of State and/or the President to comply with Article 187, OccupyGhana recommended that the Auditor-General initiate and conduct a special audit independently, utilising Section 16 of the Audit Service Act.
While expressing appreciation for the planned parliamentary inquiry and the decision for a public interest audit, OccupyGhana raised concerns about the potential unconstitutionality of the president’s choice of a private audit firm.
The group emphasised the significance of adhering to constitutional provisions to avoid spending resources on an audit that could face legal challenges. OccupyGhana advocated for allowing the Auditor-General to carry out the special audit in accordance with Article 187(8) of the Constitution.
A group of concerned fishermen at the New Takoradi Landing Beach has raised concerns regarding the insufficient supply of premix fuel.
They are troubled by an artificial shortage created by dishonest individuals within the supply chain, leading to increased costs for fishing expeditions. This, in turn, results in higher prices for fish protein in the Ghanaian market.
Nana Atoabo, the spokesperson for the fishermen at New Takoradi, expressed their worries, highlighting the economic hardships faced by many idle fishers due to the premix fuel shortage.
“We are really suffering; many fishermen have fallen out of business due to fuel prices. One needs about 12,000 cedis to buy a drum of the commodity from hoarders of premix fuel.”
He added that in the 12 months of last year, fishermen in the area received only a four-month supply of fuel.
“The closed season and other interventions put in place by the government are helpful, but fishers cannot go to sea because of the shortage of premix and it’s a source of worry to us.”
Nana Atoabo recommended that the government consider constructing fuel pumps near landing beaches or establishing connections with filling stations to ensure proper regulation of premix fuel distribution.
Additionally, he highlighted concerns about insufficient fishing equipment, including outboard motors and canoes, posing a threat to the fishermen’s livelihoods.
He expressed the hope that, during the Farmer’s Day Awards, the government would extend appropriate recognition to fishers comparable to that given to farmers.
Chef Failatu Abdul Razak, affectionatelyknown as Chef Faila, has expanded her cooking marathon goal from 120 to 240 hours, aiming to surpass a potential new record of 144 hours.
The chef, demonstrating gratitude with smiles, welcomes support from Ghanaians, including celebrities, at the Modern City Hotel in Tamale.
However, her emotions overwhelmed her during the visit of former First Lady Lordina Mahama, the wife of ex-President John Dramani Mahama.
Tearfully, Chef Faila embraced Lordina Mahama during a heartfelt encounter at the hotel’s kitchen on Saturday, January 6, 2024.
In poignant viral videos capturing the moment, Chef Failatu Abdul Razak knelt and tearfully embraced former First Lady Lordina Mahama at the Modern City Hotel.
Lordina Mahama, who had donated the Jordin cookware for the chef’s Guinness World Record attempt, comforted Chef Faila, wiping away her tears and offering words of encouragement.
The emotional encounter mirrored a similar response from Chef Faila when Chief of Staff Akosua Osei-Frema Opare visited the kitchen on Friday, January 5, 2024.
There was a potential confrontation over an attempt to export gold to theEmirates on January 2, 2024, stemming from a dispute over the ownership of Adamus Resources Ltd., a gold mining company in the Western Region.
The disagreement led to an injunction filed by one of the parties involved, preventing the directors of Adamus from conducting business in the company’s name.
Despite the court order, individuals allegedly supported by influential political figures attempted to smuggle a significant amount of gold to the Emirates. The court had earlier restrained specific directors from making decisions impacting the company until the case’s final determination.
Notices of the injunction were served to relevant parties at the Aviance Cargo Village, cautioning against engaging in any gold export trade under Adamus. The attempted shipment of gold on January 2 was thwarted by the injunction application.
Security heads at the Kotoka International Airport made unsuccessful attempts to assist in exporting the gold despite the pending injunction.
The stakeholders involved were warned of potential contempt of court if they continued aiding the restrained individuals in exporting gold under Adamus Resources.
The public was advised to avoid business activities with unauthorised persons claiming to be directors of Adamus. The Accra High Court mandated the formation of an interim management committee (IMC), but some former executives continued unauthorised activities in the company’s name.
Background
Adamus Australia, the majority shareholder holding 90% of the company’s shares, is disputing the claimed transfer of its shares to Angela List through her company, Nguvu Mining. The firm is restraining List from conducting business on behalf of Adamus Resources Ltd.
To address the ongoing export of gold by List and other restrained directors, Adamus Australia filed an injunction application on January 3, 2024, seeking to halt further gold exports unless authorized by members of an Interim Management Committee (IMC) established by the Court on July 27, 2023.
The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources appointed Lawyer Juliet Osei-Wusu (Mrs) to lead the IMC, consisting of five members, while Adamus Australia appointed two members.
Nguvu Mining has not yet disclosed its two IMC appointees and has instead submitted an application to Accra Airport authorities, purportedly on behalf of Adamus Ghana, urging them to disregard the pending injunction application to halt gold shipments by the restrained directors.
On December 21, 2013, the Court ruled that processes filed by Ferociter Law on behalf of Adamus Ghana, as directed by the restrained directors, were unauthorized, leading to their dismissal.
A contempt application against the restrained directors and the Commissioner for Customs has been previously submitted but is awaiting a hearing.
Customs officials, security personnel, and airport authorities are taking precautionary measures to avoid facing the Court’s repercussions by refraining from supporting the restrained directors and Brinks SI in exporting gold from Adamus Ghana Ltd. until the injunction application is decided on January 25, 2024.
Renowned American DJ and record producer, DJ Khaled, has showered accolades on the music of Ghanaian sensation, Black Sherif.
In a video encounter with popular Ghanaian YouTuber Wode Maya, DJ Khaled expressed his admiration for Black Sherif’s music, emphasizing that it resonates with the soul.
The conversation was sparked by DJ Khaled’s previous post praising Black Sherif’s track “Kwaku the Traveller,” and he reiterated his love for the song during the interaction with Wode Maya.
“Yes, it touches the soul,” he said.
DJ Khaled also added that he would be willing to visit Ghana sometime in the future.
Black Sherif caught the attention of DJ Khaled in 2022 when the producer shared a screenshot and a video of the song on his Instagram Stories, praising it as “music that touches your soul.”
Dj Khaled said to Wode maya, Black Sherif’s music touches the Soul. ❤️🔥🇬🇭
Additionally, he offered words of encouragement to Black Sherif, urging him to maintain his excellent work. Timbaland, another renowned music producer, also conveyed his admiration for the song by commenting “So hard” under DJ Khaled’s post.
“Kwaku the Traveller” is a song that tells the story of a young man’s quest for greatness, with a captivating storyline and amazing melodies.
The track has achieved remarkable success, securing the top position on various global music charts and platforms.
Black Sherif’s “Kwaku the Traveller” has not only garnered widespread acclaim but has also earned the artist several awards and acknowledgments, solidifying his position as one of the most streamed artistes in Ghana.
Confederation of African Football (CAF) has revealed Air Cote d’Ivoire as the official carrier sponsor for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament.
This collaboration is set to play a crucial role in facilitating the transportation of teams, officials, and fans throughout the West African country.
Leveraging its extensive network and modern fleet, the airline is well-prepared to ensure a smooth travel experience for football enthusiasts.
Mr. Laurent Loukou, Chief Executive Officer of Air Cote d’Ivoire, said, ”We are happy and proud of this partnership with CAF towards organising a memorable TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations for African football fans and beyond.
Subsequently, our fleet and flight schedule have been readjusted to meet the travel needs of the competition.”
The Africa Cup of Nations is scheduled for January 13–February 11, 2024, in the cities of Abidjan, Bouake, Korhogo, San Pedro and Yamoussoukro.
On Friday, Bournemouth’s club owner, Bill Foley, announced that Hollywood actor Michael B. Jordan will be designing a kit for the Premier League side.
Jordan had played a key role in a minority ownership group’s investment in Bournemouth.
The majority ownership transition occurred when Foley, owner of the NHL team, the Vegas Golden Knights, took over the club in December 2022 alongside the Black Knight Football Club consortium.
Foley shared in an interview with CBS Sports that the anticipated new kit is scheduled to be available for sale shortly.
“Mike is a great guy,” Foley said. “He’s a very down-to-earth, common individual. He hasn’t got stars in his eyes. He loves football.
“He is really helping us in terms of some of our international marketing and marketing in the U.S. He’s designing a kit that will go on sale shortly.
“He’s engaged, and we love having him. I believe he’s going to be in Bournemouth today and tomorrow to watch practice. He’s all-in, and it’s good to have him; he’s a terrific guy.”
Renowned for his roles in Marvel’s Black Panther and the lead actor in Sylvester Stallone’s Rocky franchise’s Creed films, Michael B. Jordan is set to design a kit for Bournemouth, as revealed by club owner Bill Foley.
Bournemouth has been outfitted by English sportswear manufacturer Umbro since the 2017–18 season, with a new five-year extension agreed upon in 2021.
Currently sitting at 12th place in the Premier League table, the south coast club is scheduled to face QPR in the FA Cup third round at Loftus Road on Saturday.
On Friday, Brazil’s interim coach, Fernando Diniz, faced dismissal from the country’s soccer federation (CBF).
According to a statement from the CBF, President Ednaldo Rodrigues communicated to Diniz his intention to “advance the process of choosing a permanent coach.”
Diniz took on the role of interim coach for the five-time World Cup winners in July, under a one-year contract.
The federation initially aimed to secure Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti as a permanent replacement, envisioning his availability after the conclusion of his contract with the Spanish giants this summer.
However, Ancelotti recently extended his contract with Madrid through 2026.
With Ancelotti out of contention, Rodrigues has opted to expedite the search for a permanent replacement for Tite, who resigned after Brazil’s quarterfinal exit in the 2022 World Cup.
“The CBF thanks Fernando Diniz for his work, his dedication, his seriousness and for the challenge of revamping Brazil,” a statement said.
The decision was taken one day after Rodrigues returned to his role following a decision from Brazil’s Supreme Court.
Rodrigues and all his executives had been removed from their jobs on Dec. 7 after a Rio de Janeiro court ruling on irregularities in the 2022 election process.
São Paulo coach Dorival Junior is the current front-runner to take over as permanent head coach, with Rodrigues having already spoken to São Paulo president Julio Casares, sources told ESPN Brasil.
São Paulo are unwilling to let their coach leave for free and have asked the CBF to pay a fee to terminate Dorival’s contract, which will be around R$4.5 million ($920,000), sources said.
Diniz remained the head coach of Fluminense during his time with Brazil, leading them to the Copa Libertadores title in November.
However, he oversaw a disappointing start to Brazil’s campaign to qualify for the 2026 World Cup in the U.S., Canada and Mexico.
Brazil have lost three of their first six matches and sit in sixth place in the standings.
Only the top six teams qualify automatically from South America, with seventh place entering a playoff.
Manchester United has reached a preliminary agreement to loan Jadon Sancho back to his former club, Borussia Dortmund, as reported by ESPN’s Rob Dawson.
However, certain details still need finalisation before the 23-year-old winger can join the Bundesliga side.
Expressing a desire to return to Dortmund, where he played before his £73 million move to Old Trafford 2½ years ago, Sancho has been out of favour with United’s first-team under manager Erik ten Hag.
United has accepted the proposed framework for a six-month loan from Dortmund, which involves a nominal fee and a contribution towards Sancho’s wages.
Despite the acceptance, the formal signing of the agreement is pending, and until that occurs, Sancho won’t be cleared to join Dortmund’s winter training camp in Spain.
Barring any last-minute breakdown in negotiations, the England forward is expected to receive the green light over the weekend.
Gazzetta dello Sport reports that Napoli have drafted an agreement to sign Radu Dragusin from Genoa, meaning Tottenham will have to get into gear.
Spurs have been strongly linked with the 21-year-old centre-back, but they will have to move quickly to beat other suitors.
Genoa want a fee of €30 million for Dragusin, with Gazzetta reporting that Tottenham are hoping to quickly complete the transfer of Eric Dier to Bayern Munich to facilitate it.
But Spurs will not pay over the odds for the Romanian international.
Napoli’s proposal is reported to total €25 million, with Tottenham talking about €18–20 million.
Genoa’s president, Alberto Zangrillo, has insisted his player will only leave for the right price.
“Dragusin is an excellent footballer as well as a very good boy,” Zangrillo said. “With Genoa, he had the opportunity to express himself to demonstrate its value.
“We are a serious but, above all, healthy club; there is no absolute need to sell. Genoa is not being taken by the neck by anyone.”
The report adds that the player’s agent, Florin Manea, arrived in Italy on Friday to move matters forward.
Bayern Munich reportedly has a verbal agreement with Fulham midfielder João Palhinha, but the potential move may face challenges, according to Sky Sports Deutschland.
The 28-year-old initially signed a new contract with Fulham after a failed move to Bayern on the September 1 deadline. His new contract extends until the summer of 2028, featuring a substantially increased salary.
Fulham assured Palhinha that if he desired a transfer in January, the club would lower their demands to €65 million, maintaining a valuation of at least €60 million.
Currently, Bayern is reluctant to meet this sum, deeming the Portugal international too expensive. Consequently, there has been no formal inquiry or offer from Bayern at this point.
Nevertheless, the potential deal remains open, particularly since Palhinha is determined to join Bayern and has no interest in other clubs, despite links to Arsenal and Liverpool.
Expressing his desire to leave Fulham this winter, Palhinha hopes for a resolution, aligning with Bayern manager Thomas Tuchel’s interest in securing a midfielder for the holding No. 6 position.
Despite the uncertainties surrounding the transfer, Palhinha has continued to impress with 17 Premier League appearances this season, contributing two goals and an assist.
Renowned sports journalist Saddick Adams has responded to some social media users who suggested that Ghanaian football legend Michael Essien missed a significant opportunity by allegedly ending his relationship with ace Ghanaian actress Nadia Buari.
After Nadia Buari shared a captivating photo of herself that garnered admiration, Michael Essien faced criticism and trolling from some social media users who believed he had let go of a golden opportunity with the renowned actress.
Many tweets insinuated that Michael Essien made a mistake by supposedly ending his relationship with Nadia Buari, with some expressing curiosity about what went wrong between the two.
In defence of Michael Essien, Saddick Adams strongly questioned why these individuals criticising Essien did not pursue a relationship with Nadia themselves. He emphasised the need to avoid making assumptions about personal relationships without knowing the full story.
“You see Nadia photos p3 then you pity Essien. But you’re a man too. Why didn’t you go for her? Anaa, you don’t want good things for yourself?”
In a recent interview,Michael Essien provided insights into how he and Didier Drogba played pivotal roles in paving the way for the increased presence of African players in the Premier League.
The Chelsea legend highlighted how both his own performances and those of Drogba served as catalysts, inspiring football clubs and agents to actively seek out and recruit more players from West Africa.
“It is always a big question if there is a big transfer over an African player. Didier (Drogba) was there; he showed it a year before I came (to Chelsea, and I followed it up.”
“I think he gave some trust to the rest of the clubs that they could spend the money and trust the process.”
Essien joined Lyon in August 2005 for 24.4 million pounds and starred for the Chelsea team under former owner Roman Abramovic.
The revelation of the private wedding ceremonybetween Berla Mundi, a prominent media personality at Media General, and David Tabi came as a surprise to Ghanaians.
The lack of publicity, a departure from the usual celebrity weddings, stirred curiosity about David Tabi, the fortunate man marrying Berla Mundi.
According to GhPage.com, David Tabi is in his late 30s, born in Ghana, and spent nearly 15 years abroad for his education before returning to manage his father’s business.
His college education took place at Lincoln School in London, renowned globally for academic excellence.
Subsequently, he pursued his tertiary education at Atlantic Wilfred Laurier University in Canada, earning his first degree.
David Tabi’s professional journey includes a twelve-year tenure as the operations manager for Barbex Group, where he honed his managerial skills and achieved significant success.
GhPage.com estimates his net worth at a substantial $2 million, and he owns luxurious cars, with a Rolls Royce being his preferred choice.
Additionally, he is involved in an impressive Real Estate business, featuring seven state-of-the-art mansions strategically located across the country.
The surprise wedding between David Tabi and Berla Mundi took place on Friday, January 5, 2023, capturing the attention of Ghanaians.
Wife of Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia, Mrs. Samira Bawumia, has contributed a donation to support chef Failatu Abdul-Razak in her Guinness World Record attempt for the longest individual cooking marathon.
According to a Facebook post by event organiser Eric Toscar, “the donation consists of 10 bags of 25 kilos of rice, 2 gallons of 25 litres of cooking oil, 2 cartons of tin tomatoes, 2 cartons of canned mackerel, 2 cartons of tuna flakes and 2 cartons of sardines.”.
Toscar also noted Mrs Bawumia “sent a delegation to do the donation on her behalf”.
Chef Failatu is currently vying for the Guinness World Record held by Irish chef Alan Fisher, who achieved an astounding 119 hours and 57 minutes, surpassing Nigeria’s Hilda Baci. Ms. Baci, the previous record holder, had cooked for 93 hours and 11 minutes, as announced by GWR on November 7, 2023.
Conducting her record attempt at the Modern City Hotel in Tamale, the capital of the Northern Region, Chef Failatu initiated her endeavor on Sunday, December 31, 2023, with the conclusion set for today, Friday, January 5, 2024. Her goal is to surpass the 120-hour mark.
Social media users have been impressed by her unwavering stamina, composure, and the diverse array of dishes she effortlessly prepares. Some humorously suggest that, judging by her performance, she could potentially cook for a week.
Apart from delighting her live audience with her culinary skills, Chef Failatu has generously shared a significant portion of the food prepared during her Guinness World Record cook-a-thon with those in need on the streets of Tamale.
Mrs. Samira Bawumia, a potential First Lady given her husband’s position as the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) flagbearer for the 2024 general elections, praised and encouraged Chef Failatu on Facebook yesterday.
“Faila, I know you can do this, and you’ve done great so far. Keep going strong! We’re proud of you.”
While numerousMenzgold customers are still awaiting the release of their locked-up funds, a select group, including influential individuals in society, has reportedly received disbursements facilitated by the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO), according to claims made by Maurice Ampaw, Convener of Proud Menzgold Customers.
He based his assertion on the information presented in court.
Speaking to the press on Friday, January 5, 2024, Maurice Ampaw argued that customers who are waiting for the release of their funds need not wait for the resolution of the NAM1 case in court, as disbursements can be made to them promptly.
“A lot of our customers have been paid. It is evident in the facts of the court of competent jurisdiction… The fact of the matter is that a lot of our customers have received their investments.
“The big men have taken theirs and others have been paid by EOCO so why do you think that when others without the court process have received their money? Then we sit down and say we are waiting for the court to finish…” he said.
Lawyer Maurice Ampaw emphasised that his group, Proud Menzgold Customers, holds no interest in the lawsuit against the Chief Executive Officer of the now-defunct gold dealership, Nana Appiah Mensah.
He pointed out that regardless of whether Nana Appiah Mensah is acquitted and discharged or serves a jail term, neither scenario will result in the recovery of their locked-up funds.
In light of this, Maurice Ampaw called upon the government, particularly Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, to intervene and assist in retrieving NAM1’s investments in Dubai to settle the debts owed to Menzgold customers. He emphasised that accomplishing this task would earn massive support from customers who would vote in favour of such efforts.
Chief of Sokode Dwaso, Barima (Dr.) Kwabena Awuah Parker I,has proactively tackled the employment challenges faced by his community by spearheading the establishment of a rubber factory.
Alongside dignitaries, including fellow chiefs and government officials, Barima (Dr.) Parker recently presided over a sod-cutting ceremony to officially commence this transformative project, set to create job opportunities for over 200 individuals.
In a subsequent interview, Barima Parker elucidated the reasoning behind his deliberate focus on addressing employment concerns amidst various challenges faced by the community.
“My decision to tackle employment is based on broad consultations and personal observation, which have all led to the conclusion that there are many young people who have completed school and are walking around doing nothing.”
Highlighting the potential impact of the rubber factory, Barima (Dr.) Parker shared, “This factory, when it becomes operational, can employ 260 people.”
Arsenal coach Mikel Arteta has shed light on Thomas Partey’s earnest efforts to regain fitness in time for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.
Addressing the media before Arsenal’s FA Cup match against Liverpool, Arteta revealed a pragmatic decision-making process between the club and the FA regarding Thomas Partey’s situation.
Arteta clarified that, despite Thomas Partey’s strong desire to join Ghana’s team for the AFCON, the physical impossibility stemmed from the long-term injury he sustained in October 2023.
Providing an update on Partey’s status, Arteta indicated that the 29-year-old midfielder is far from making a comeback, both for Arsenal and the Ghana national team.
“It was about common sense. He had a long-term injury. He really wanted to be with his national team but he’s still far from training for the team and it didn’t make sense for him to be involved,” he said.
https://youtu.be/323h4yaLNGo
Thomas Partey, initially named in Ghana’s provisional 55-man squad, is among the high-profile players absent from the final selection due to injury.
Notable omissions also include Kamaldeen Sulemana and Daniel Kofi Kyere, who were sidelined due to injuries.
Despite their unavailability, these players will be fervently cheering on their teammates as the Black Stars kick off the tournament with the opening match against Cape Verde on Sunday, January 14, 2023, at the Felix Houphet Boigny Stadium, scheduled for 8:00 p.m. Ghana time (20:00 GMT).
A highly anticipated showdown awaits in the second Group B game on January 18, 2024, at 8:00 p.m. (20:00 GMT), as Egypt and Ghana clash in a match that many expect to be a battle between Liverpool’s Mohammed Salah and West Ham United’s Mohammed Kudus.
The culmination of Ghana’s group stage matches will see them face Mozambique on January 22, 2024, at the Olympic Stadium of Obimpe, with the game scheduled for 8:00 p.m. Ghana time (20:00 GMT).
In a groundbreaking move poised to redefine sports broadcasting, media giant StarTimes has officially secured the broadcasting rights for the highly anticipated Total Energies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Cote d’Ivoire 2023, as well as all CAF Events held in 2024 in Anglophone & Lusophone Countries in Sub-Saharan Africa.
This comprehensive coverage includes CHAN 2024 and AFCON 2025 qualifiers.
This strategic acquisition solidifies StarTimes’ commitment to delivering top-tier sports content to its viewers, solidifying its position as a major player in the African media landscape.
The Africa Cup of Nations, organized by the Confederation of African Football (CAF), is among the most prestigious football tournaments on the continent.
The upcoming AFCON 2023, set to be hosted in Ivory Coast, will be the second time the West African nation has been chosen to host this prestigious tournament.
Originally scheduled for the summer of 2023, the event has now been rescheduled to run from January 13 to February 11, 2024.
With 24 participating nations, Côte d’Ivoire is gearing up for an exhilarating competition featuring a total of 52 matches, showcasing the best football talent from across the continent.
StarTimes boasts a stellar track record in delivering high-quality sports coverage to millions of viewers across Africa. The media giant consistently demonstrates a commitment to enhancing the viewing experience for football enthusiasts by employing cutting-edge technology and providing comprehensive coverage.
Continuing its partnership with CAF, StarTimes successfully broadcasted the 2019-2022 AFCON and the 2020 CHAN.
StarTimes’ investment in the broadcasting rights for AFCON 2023 and CAF Events underscores the company’s dedication to supporting and promoting African sports. By securing these rights, StarTimes aims to bring the thrill and excitement of AFCON to an even broader audience, fostering a sense of unity and pride across the continent.
“We are delighted to announce that StarTimes has secured the broadcasting rights for AFCON 2023,” said Mrs. Akofa Banson, General Manager at StarTimes Ghana.
“This represents a significant milestone for us as we continue to bring the best in sports entertainment to our viewers. AFCON is a celebration of African talent and passion, and we are proud to play a key role in delivering this experience to homes across the continent.”
Nigerian entrepreneur and founder of Tingo Group, a global agri-fintech conglomerate, is facing charges from U.S. authorities over an alleged “massive fraud” scheme deceiving investors and regulators.
If convicted of conspiracy, securities fraud, and making false filings with the SEC, he could face up to 45 years in prison.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office asserts that Mmobuosi inflated the financial performance and assets of his companies, including Tingo Mobile and Tingo Foods, selling them to U.S.-listed entities like Tingo Group and Agri-Fintech Holdings, which then issued misleading financial statements.
He allegedly syphoned off cash from these companies and profited from selling their shares at inflated prices.
The SEC filed a civil complaint in December 2023, revealing that Mmobuosi engaged in fictitious transactions worth billions of dollars since 2019, describing the fraud as “staggering.”
Trading in Tingo Group and Agri-Fintech Holdings was suspended in November 2023 due to concerns about the accuracy of publicly available information.
Hindenburg Research, a short-selling activist group, exposed Mmobuosi’s fraud in June 2023, branding Tingo Group an “exceptionally obvious scam.”
Their report challenged Mmobuosi’s claims of developing “Nigeria’s first mobile payment app” and accused him of falsifying financials, causing Tingo Group’s shares to plummet by over 60 percent.
Mmobuosi, planning a $500 million capital round and IPO in 2022, vehemently denies the allegations, declaring his intent to fight them in court. He insists that he is a victim of conspiracy and maintains the legitimacy and profitability of his companies.
Prominent officials from the Ghana Football Association (GFA) paid their respects at the funeral of the late former Minister of Youth and Sports, Hon. Enoch Teye Mensah, on Friday, January 5.
The State House hosted a state burial service to honour the Ghanaian statesman.
The former Member of Parliament for Ningo-Prampram and Council of State member was laid to rest following the state burial service.
Notable figures from the Ghana FA, including Executive Council member Nana Oduro Sarfo, joined the mourning alongside Executive Council members Eugene Nobel Noel and Samuel Aboabire, as well as GFA General Secretary Prosper Harrison Addo.
E.T Mensah, instrumental in establishing the Ghana Football Association Technical Centre at Prampram, passed away in South Africa in October 2023 after a period of ill health.
He served as a Member of Parliament forNingo Prampram from January 1997 to January 2017 and held the position of Minister of Education at one point.
Chef Failatu Abdul-Razak, in his quest to set a new Guinness World Record for the longest individual cooking hours, has encountered an extension in the cook-a-thon duration, now spanning seven days.
Initially slated from January 1 to January 05, totaling 120 hours over five days, the event’s organisers, as revealed days into the cook-a-thon, found it necessary to extend the cooking hours to exceed 144 hours.
The updated goal for Failatu is now set at an ambitious 240 hours, as reported by Joy News.
Mr Damba Naa, Manager of Failatu Abdul-Razak, said in an interview with the Ghana News Agency in Tamale, “The idea is no longer five days. We are doing six to seven days.”
He stated that the team had to come up with such a decision to enable the chef to make a mark because a Ugandan lady had already cooked for 144 hours in the quest to break the existing record.
He said, “For us to be able to break the record and set any, we have to go beyond the 144 hours.”
Chef Dorcus Mirembe, popularly known as Mama D, undertook an official attempt to break the existing cook-a-thon record, successfully cooking for an impressive 144 hours.
Her culinary marathon began on December 23 and concluded on December 28, surpassing the 120-hour record held by Alan Fisher, the current record holder.
The absence of any photos or videos from Berla Mundi’s wedding on January 5, 2024, became a significant topic of discussion.
The reason behind this was attributed to the private nature of the event, where attendees were restricted from using their phones.
Despite the privacy measures, a brief six-second video surfaced online later in the night, offering a glimpse into the ceremony.
The footage featured Berla and her husband, David Tabi, both elegantly dressed in white, joyfully dancing while surrounded by cheering onlookers.
Following the confirmation of their union, social media witnessed an outpouring of congratulations and goodwill messages to the newlyweds.
The revelation of the wedding details came through a post on X (formerly Twitter),courtesy of fellow presenter Giovanni Caleb, who shared the development with the public.
Ghanaian football sensationMohammed Kudus has secured the 50th position in the list of the world’s most valuable football players, as reported by the CIES Football Observatory.
The 23-year-old midfielder made a high-profile move to West Ham United during the summer transfer window, attracting significant interest from various clubs.
Kudus has quickly become a pivotal figure for the Hammers and is gaining recognition as one of the standout performers in the ongoing English Premier League season.
At the halfway point of the 2023–24 football season, Kudus has impressively netted 10 goals across all competitions for West Ham United.
As a testament to his stellar contributions, the CIES Football Observatory now values Mohammed Kudus at an impressive €93.8 million.
This remarkable valuation has propelled him to the 50th spot on the esteemed list of the world’s most valuable football players.
Topping the list is Real Madrid and England star Jude Bellingham, with a staggering current value of 267.5 million euros.
Offinso Traditional Area recently witnessed the formal induction of a new paramount chief, 68-year-old Nana Amoako Poku, whose stool name was unveiled as Nana Dwamena Akenten II.
In adherence to tradition, the new Offinsohene took the oath before chiefs and the community, followed by a ceremonial drive through the town’s main streets, as captured in a video sighted online.
A robust security presence, comprising police personnel and armed soldiers, accompanied the chief as he waved to the enthusiastic crowd.
Amid cheers from the people, there was a resounding acknowledgment that Nana Dwamena Akenten II was the long-awaited leader they had yearned for. He takes the mantle from Nana Wiafe Akenten, who served as paramount chief from 1946 to 2021.
The formal announcement of the new paramount chief took place during the final Asanteman Council meeting of 2023, presided over by Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II.
This declaration marked the resolution of a protracted dispute, during which Otumfuo rejected the Queen’s preferred candidate on three occasions.
The Queen Mother, unable to nominate a qualified royal for the vacant stool, was absent during the announcement. Instead, the responsibility fell on Kwakwaboa Abusuapanyin, Opanyin Yaw Nkrumah Adusah, who introduced Nana Amoako Poku as the new Offinsohene.
Despite three opportunities given to the Queen Mother to nominate a candidate, her choice of Dr. Kofi Kodua Sarpong, a former Chief Executive of theGhana National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC), was contested due to his not hailing from the royal family.
In accordance with Asante tradition, the Abusuapanyin stepped in to nominate a candidate, leading to the introduction of Nana Amoako Poku.
Here are five key facts about the Offinsohene-elect
1.Royal heritage
Nana Amoako Poku, according to GhanaWeb checks hails from the Offinso Ahyirem Royal Family, cementing his connection to the historical lineage of the Offinso Traditional Area.
2.Agricultural excellence
He boasts the title of a one-time best farmer in the Offinso district. Nana was declared Municipal Best Farmer at the 36th National Farmer’s Day celebration in Offinso in the Ashanti region in 2020 by the Offinso District Assembly.
3.Curator of Asante heritage
Nana Amoako Poku is renowned for his role as a curator of Asante heritage according to a Graphic online report.
4.Timber merchant
Beyond his royal and cultural roles, Nana Amoako Poku is engaged in timber trading as cited in a report by Opemsuo radio.
5. Otumfuo Kekabuosohene
Nana Poku till his elevation was also a servant at Manhyia Palace where he was Otumfuo’s Kekabuosohene as cited in a report by ofma.gov.gh
Chief of Kwahu Tafo, Nana Okogyeedom Oheneba Ntim-Barimah, recently explained the absence of the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, from the National House of Chiefs. According to Nana Oheneba Ntim-Barimah, the Asantehene’s decision stems from a desire to preserve the distinct identity of the Ashanti Kingdom.
In an interview with One Ghana TV, Nana Oheneba Ntim-Barimah pointed out that participating in the National House of Chiefs would imply acceptance of the ‘paramount chief’ title imposed by the British during the colonial era.
He emphasized that this term was introduced by the British to diminish the stature of traditional rulers, reserving the title of ‘king’ exclusively for the British monarch.
Nana Oheneba Ntim-Barimah advocated for a renaming of the National House of Chiefs to the National House of Kings, aligning with the practice in other African countries like South Africa.
This, he believes, would accurately reflect the esteemed status of traditional rulers across the nation.
“We have accepted having a National House of Chief, which should be a National House of Kings. That is why the Otumfuo says he is not a member (of the National House of Chief). People would say, he is being proud but they are protecting the empire.
“We can’t call our monarchs, chief; those of us who served them can be called chiefs… read the Bible, which of the 42 kings were called chiefs. Read your bible, we have King Jehosaphat, King Hazia, King, King Jotham, King David… have you ever seen the word chief in the bible? The Bible recognises every monarch as a King,” he said in Twi.
He added, “Ashantis say Otumfuo, which means a glorious monarch; if you want to translate it to English, it means King of Kings. The ruler of Juaben is a King, the ruler of Kumawu is a King, the ruler of Agogo is a King, the ruler of Offinso is a King. And Otumfuo is the head of all of them so he is a King of Kings”.
Ghana has maintained the top position for the highest interest rates in Africa over the last two years.
Despite a decline in rates after receiving the first tranche of the IMF loan and completing the debt exchange program, recent reports indicate that rates for the 91-day and 182-day Treasury bills remain relatively high at about 29.24% and 31.88%, respectively.
Even with decreases of 6.12% and 4.10% in yields for the 91-day and 182-day bills in 2023, current interest rates hover around 32%, placing Ghana at the forefront of African countries with the highest rates.
Egypt closely follows as the second-highest, with rates of 25.68% for the 91-day bill and 25.95% for the 182-day bill.
Ghanaian national football team, the Black Stars, is intensifying its preparations for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, slated for January 13 to February 11, 2023, at the Dr Kwame Kyei Sports Complex.
With a strong determination to end the country’s 41-year trophy drought, the Black Stars face the challenge of navigating through their opening three Group B matches.
Kicking off their campaign against Cape Verde on January 14, 2024, at 8:00 p.m. Ghana time (20:00 GMT) at the Felix Houphet Boigny Stadium, the team aims to make a significant impact.
The subsequent Group B clash on January 18, 2024, at 8:00 p.m. (20:00 GMT) promises an exciting battle between Egypt and Ghana, featuring football stars Mohamed Salah and Mohammed Kudus.
In the Round 16 match at the Stadio Toumbas, Rahman played a crucial role for PAOK FC.
The Black Stars full-back not only assisted Kiril Despodov in scoring the first goal in the 39th minute but also netted himself just two minutes later, doubling the lead for the hosts.
Rahman continued to be influential, contributing to PAOK’s comprehensive win.
The victory propelled PAOK FC to the top of the Greek Super League standings.
The veteran photographer, who held a significant place in Ghana’s photography history, died at the age of 87 on Thursday, January 4, 2023.
Felicia Ewuraesi Abban was the first woman in Ghana to establish herself as a professional photographer.
She was part of a notable family, with siblings including JKE Ansah, Tumi Ansah, filmmaker Kwaw Ansah, and the late fashion designer Kofi Ansah.
The funeral arrangements for the late Felicia Ewuraesi Abban will be announced at a later date. Her contributions to the field of photography have left a lasting legacy, marking her as a trailblazer and a pioneer in her industry.
About Felicia Ewuraesi Abban:
Born in 1935 to parents residing in the Western Region, Felicia Abban was introduced to the burgeoning field of photography as her father was a practitioner in the trade.
Opting to apprentice under her father, little did Felicia know that this decision would lead her to become the official photographer for Ghana’s first Prime Minister and later President, Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah.
A glimpse into Felicia’s remarkable achievements was shared on Twitter by the SUNU journal, a Journal of African Affairs, Critical Thought, and Aesthetics.
SUNU Notes, known for preserving archival and contemporary material, serves as a testament to Felicia Abban’s significant contributions to the field of photography.
As a young child, Felicia Ansah Abban frequented her father’s photography studio in Sekondi-Takoradi, Western Region, where she was born in 1935.
The eldest of six siblings, Abban began her apprenticeship under her father at the age of 14, spending the next four years refining her skills under his meticulous guidance. At 18, newly married, she left her hometown for Accra to establish her own photo studio.
Felicia was married to Robert Abban (late), the designer of the fabric that featuredKwame Nkrumah’s portrait amid flowers with the Ghana map, created for Ghana’s Independence Day celebrations in 1957.
According to Ghanaianmuseum.com, her first public exhibition was held at ANO’s gallery in March 2017, and there are plans to transform her studio into a museum in her honor. Abban’s personal photo collection includes self-portraits taken before attending various events.
Renowned Ghanaian fashion icon Richard Brown, affectionately knownas Osebo, is gearing up to launch his exclusive collections, featuring slippers, sandals, shoes, clothes, and more under his own brand.
The much-anticipated unveiling is scheduled for 5 p.m. on January 12, 2024, at the Sunlodge Hotel in Accra, marking a significant milestone in Osebo’s fashion journey.
During a brief interaction with the media, Osebo expressed his excitement about entering the next phase of his fashion career.
He emphasised his desire to showcase his fashion expertise to the world, creating job opportunities and other prospects for the youth. Osebo acknowledged that building his brand to this level required time and patience.
Attributing his name “Osebo” (Tiger) to his Spiritual Father, Apostle Kwadwo Sarfo, whom he considers the King of the jungle, Osebo revealed how the name has been instrumental in propelling him to the heights he has reached in life.
In light of his experiences, Osebo encouraged the youth not to give up on their life journeys.
He emphasised that, despite the challenges, with determination, hard work, and a commitment to success, every dream is achievable.
Honorable Evangelist Dr. Enoch Teye Mensah, commonly known as E.T. Mensah, was born on May 17, 1946, in Koforidua, located in the Eastern Region of Ghana.
His parents, Mr. Emmanuel Teye Mensah (also known as E.T. Mensah Snr or Niitse Goldsmith), a highly esteemed goldsmith, and Madam Elizabeth Nartehkuor Nartey, a draper, both hailed from Afutu Wem and Adjoka Wem of the Kley Abordo Clan in Prampram, part of the Greater Accra Region.
EARLY YEARS OF LIFE & EDUCATION
Honorable E.T. Mensah commenced his early education at Koforidua Methodist Primary School and later transferred to Akorabo Methodist Primary and Middle School near Suhum in the Eastern Region, following his parents’ relocation.
In 1958, his family moved to Ashaiman, near Tema, where he continued his middle school education at the Akodzo Middle School in Tema Community One. He completed his middle school education in 1962, achieving a distinction in the Middle School Leaving Certificate Exams.
Subsequently, he relocated to Mamprobi-Dansoman, Accra, to live with his elder brother, the late S.N. Mensah, who worked at Accra City Council (now Accra Metropolitan Assembly, AMA).
In 1964, E.T. Mensah attended the SNAPS College of Accountancy and Secretaryship at Asylum Down, Accra. Excelling in his studies, he was recognised as the best student when he took the Royal Society of Arts Examination. Consequently, he was employed as a tutor at the college.
Later, he established the Institute of Business Education (IBE) in Mamprobi, focusing on Business and Management Studies, where he served as the head.
E.T. Mensah’s educational journey continued with notable achievements, earning a Master of Arts (MA) certificate in Theological Studies and a Doctor of Ministry (PhD) certificate from Vision International University, Ramona, California. He graduated as the valedictorian at the ceremony.
Additionally, he held the title of Fellow of Good Standing in the Institute of Financial Accountants (IAA) and was a member of the National Association of Public Accountants (USA) and the Institute of Public Accountants (FIBA), Australia.
SPORTING ACTIVITIES
While at Akodzo Middle School, E.T. Mensah played a pivotal role in the school’s football team, showcasing excellence that earned him a recruitment to the now-defunct Tema Hurricanes Football Club. Playing alongside notable teammates like goalkeeper Peter Shallowa, Ofori Mambo, and the late King Pele, he contributed to making the Tema Hurricanes a formidable force in the Ghana Football League. The team posed a significant challenge to renowned clubs such as Asante Kotoko and Accra Hearts of Oak during their tenure in the league.
Subsequently, E.T. Mensah was enlisted to play for Auroras and Hearts of Oak between 1967 and 1976. He shared the field with football icons like Sam Amarteifio, Addo Odametey, Tommy Vanderpuije, Mohammed Polo, and Anas Seidu, among others.
During the early days of Tommy Thompson’s chairmanship at Accra Hearts of Oak, E.T. Mensah became a member of the Welfare Committee, contributing to the team’s successes in Africa Club competitions.
E.T. Mensah’s football prowess during his school years caught the attention of Lever Brothers (Gh) Ltd. (now Unilever Gh. Ltd.), leading to his employment to play for the company’s team in the Tema Inter Departmental Football League during the early 1960s. He also traveled with the team to participate in matches in Nigeria and other neighbouring countries.
WORK EXPERIENCE
Hon. Dr. Evangelist E.T. Mensah’s illustrious career as a public servant and esteemed politician has earned him admiration from individuals within and beyond the borders of Ghana. His journey encompassed diverse roles, showcasing his dedication and competence.
Beginning his professional journey as a college tutor, E.T. Mensah went on to serve as a headmaster, auditor, senior accounts clerk, and accountant. His multifaceted experience reflects his commitment to public service and administrative excellence.
E.T. Mensah garnered international recognition as a Fellow of the American Biographical Institute and participated as a Member of the World Conference of Mayors. Additionally, he held membership in the Ghana Institute of Management, further highlighting his involvement in professional and global networks.
POLITICAL LIFE AND ACTIVISM
Whilest working at theUniversity of Ghana, Legon continued with his activism, where he joined a Left-wing political study group comprising notable political stalwarts such as the Late Prof. Kwesi Botchway, Comrades Tsatsu Tsikata, Fui Tsikata, Prof. Kwame Karikari, Prof. Takyiwaa Manu, Akoto Ampaw and others. This group later culminated in the now-defunct New Democratic Movement (NDM). The group set up study cells across the country to educate working people on the tenets and principles of the class struggle for emancipation.
E.T. and two other colleagues, namely Professor Botchway and the late Abraham Dodoo, a senior civil servant, signed the first policy document of the group, the New Democratic Movement (NDM). This group worked assiduously to raise the political consciousness of mainly workers across the country.
It was no wonder, many of the members joined the revolutionary waggon of December 31; he was instrumental in the 1981 coup detat led by the late President Rawlings.
Hon. Evangelist Dr. E. T. Mensah, as a politician, was the PNDC Metropolitan Secretary for Accra (Mayor of Accra), the capital city of Ghana, for ten (10) years (1982–1992). During his tenure of office as Mayor, Accra witnessed many developmental projects that were unprecedented in history of Ghana. He was the architect of how the city of Accra looks like today.
In 1992, when the country was ushered into democratic governance, Hon. ET Mensah became the Deputy PNDC Secretary for Youth and Sports. By dint of hard work, dedication and valour, he was promoted to substantive minister of Youth and Sports from April 1993 to January 2001.
He was the sports minister who turned sports around in Ghana. He introduced Professional Football and Premiere League. Clubs were directed to register as corporate entities. He also introduced Sports Policy, Player Transfer and Sponsorship Programmes. The National Youth Policy was also rolled out in 1999.
He was a Founding Member, National Youth Organizer and Vice Chairman of theNational Democratic Congress (NDC) for many years. He was a Member of Parliament for Ningo Prampram Constituency for an unprecedented five (5) consecutive terms as Minister for Employment and Social Welfare, Minister of Water Resources, Works and Housing (He also acted as Minister of Education and Agriculture).
He served as a Member of Government Taskforce to oversee the implementation of the President’s Priority Projects at the Office of the President.
E.T. MENSAH AND PRAMPRAM
As a native and royal of the Kley Abordo Clan of Prampram, Hon. Dr. Evangelist E.T. Mensah dedicated himself to elevating the status of Prampram, a region that historically served as a trading route to the coast before independence.
During his tenure as Mayor of Accra (AMA), he exerted considerable effort to secure advancements for Prampram and Ningo communities. In 1987, his diligent work led to the extension of electricity to these areas.
Additionally, he played a pivotal role in the reconstruction and paving of the road from Dawhuenya (Prampram junction) to the main town, addressing its deplorable condition. E.T. Mensah also spearheaded the construction of a bridge over the Djange Lagoon, significantly reducing travel time from Old Ningo to ten miles from the previous twenty miles.
Furthermore, the late E.T. Mensah played a crucial role in the establishment of the Ningo-Prampram District Assembly, showcasing his commitment to local governance and community development.
E.T. MENSAH, A MEMBER OF THE COUNCIL OF STATE.
ET was unanimously elected as a member of the Council of State with a one hundred percent majority vote to represent the Greater Accra Region in 2021, where he remained an active seating member until his untimely death.
As a native and royal of the Kley Abordo Clan of Prampram, Hon. Dr. Evangelist E.T. Mensah dedicated himself to elevating the status of Prampram, a region that historically served as a trading route to the coast before independence.
During his tenure as Mayor of Accra (AMA), he exerted considerable effort to secure advancements for Prampram and Ningo communities. In 1987, his diligent work led to the extension of electricity to these areas. Additionally, he played a pivotal role in the reconstruction and paving of the road from Dawhuenya (Prampram junction) to the main town, addressing its deplorable condition. E.T. Mensah also spearheaded the construction of a bridge over the Djange Lagoon, significantly reducing travel time from Old Ningo to ten miles from the previous twenty miles.
Furthermore, the late E.T. Mensah played a crucial role in the establishment of the Ningo-Prampram District Assembly, showcasing his commitment to local governance and community development.
A state burial service is currently taking place at the forecourt of the State House on January 5, 2024, in honour of the late Enoch Teye Mensah, former Member of Parliament (MP) for Ningo Prampram and ex-Minister of Sports, who passed away in October 2023.
During the commemorative anniversary of the 2023 edition of the 31st December Revolution in Accra, Fifi Fiavi Kwetey, the General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has urged the party to undertake a thorough house cleaning.
He alleges that there is significant decadence within the main opposition party.
Kwetey, speaking at the event, emphasised that the NDC’s challenges surpass those of the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP).
“There is real decay and that decay continues to be in the NDC today. So, I don’t want us, the NDC, to pretend that December 31 is simply a day to bash the NPP; (the) NPP is not the issue; the issue is bigger than the NPP.
“The decay even within the NDC must stop with that blazing fire and that is what this business is about,” a charged Kwetey submitted.
He stressed that unless the NDC rids itself of internal decay, the 2024 victory will be meaningless.
Let the Chairman and the Leader of the NDC dare come out and sack the General Secretary if they have the “balls” to do so. pic.twitter.com/afOXJrIKtb
“It is in vain if we win power only to continue what we see, only to do some of the things that we are seeing and only to claim we are doing less; that is not enough,” he cautioned.
On the commemoration of the second coming into office of former President Jerry John Rawlings as a military leader on December 31, 1981, Fifi Fiavi Kwetey’s comments have stirred excitement from former Deputy General Secretary Samuel Koku Anyidoho.
In response to Kwetey’s assertion that the NDC needed to address internal issues, Anyidoho suggested that his previous expulsion from the party was a result of making similar calls.
He challenged the current chairman, Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, and the party’s leader, John Dramani Mahama, to take comparable action against Kwetey.
Anyidoho pointed out that Asiedu Nketiah, as the former party scribe, supervised the process that led to his expulsion for alleged anti-party conduct.
“Let the Chairman and the Leader of the NDC dare come out and sack the General Secretary if they have the “balls” to do so,” he posted on X (formerly Twitter).
A state burial service is currently underway at the forecourt of the State House on January 5, 2024, to honour the late Enoch Teye Mensah, former Member of Parliament (MP) for Ningo Prampram and ex-Minister of Sports.
Enoch Teye Mensah, affectionately known as ET Mensah, passed away in October 2023, and he is expected to be buried immediately following the state funeral.
Prominent figures from the government, including President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, Chief of Staff Akosua Frema Osei-Opare, and senior advisor Yaw Osafo Maafo, as well as ministers of state and other government appointees, have gathered at the State House to pay their last respects.
The funeral also sees the presence of key members of ET Mensah’s political party, the National Democratic Congress (NDC), including the party’s flagbearer, John Dramani Mahama, National Chairman Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, General Secretary Fifi Kwetey, and former Speaker of Parliament Edward Doe Adjaho.
Members of the Ghanaian Parliament, where ET Mensah served for about a decade, including the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, and legislators from both the minority and majority caucuses, have also joined the service.
On January 4, 2024, the late ET Mensah’s body was laid in state at his Prampram residence.
A Thanksgiving service is scheduled to take place in his honour at the Methodist Church in Prampram on Sunday, January 7, 2024.
ET Mensah passed away in South Africa at the age of 77 after battling ill health for some time.
His illustrious career included serving as a Minister for Youth, Sports and Education, and he held the position of Member of Parliament from January 1997 to January 2017. ET Mensah is survived by a wife and seven children.
Roma coach José Mourinho has clarified that there has been no contact from the Brazil Football Confederation (CBF) regarding the national team job in July 2024. The CBF is actively searching for a full-time manager to succeed interim coach Fernando Diniz, whose contract concludes in the summer.
With Carlo Ancelotti extending his contract with Real Madrid until June 2026, reports suggest that the CBF has approached Mourinho’s agent, Jorge Mendes, to inquire about the Portuguese coach’s availability.
Despite these reports, Mourinho has explicitly stated that he has not been directly contacted by the CBF at this point in time.
“I don’t know if it’s true that Brazil wants me,” Mourinho said. “They haven’t spoken to me. I asked my agent not to tell me anything about any contacts.”
Ednaldo Rodrigues, upon his reinstatement as CBF president, has identified selecting a full-time national team manager as his initial priority. Reports indicate that São Paulo coach Dorival Júnior is his favoured candidate for the position.
Mourinho, currently under contract with Roma until June 30, has stated that he has not yet made a decision about his future.
Amid reports that Roma are looking for a new manager, the former Chelsea and Manchester United coach said: “I have no reason to think that the [Roma owners] Friedkin family is not honest; I trust the ownership 100%. It doesn’t mean I’ll stay here 100% but it means they’re not looking for someone else behind my back.”
Having joined Roma in the summer of 2021, the 60-year-old Mourinho has rejected coaching offers from both Portugal and Saudi Arabia.
Ghanaian ratafarian student Tyron Marghuy, who became famous for his legal battle with Achimota School over his dreadlocks, made headlines after he posted the results of his West Africa Senior Secondary Certificate Examination (WASSCE), where he made 8As studying General Science.
A video capturing the moment he checked his results online with friends went viral on social media, garnering congratulations from many for his academic achievement.
During an interview sighted on (formerly Twitter), on his journey to attaining such a milestone, he revealed that he didn’t use a calculator while writing his favourite subject, Core Maths paper, a statement that has set tongues waging on the internet as some users believe it is a struggle to make a C6 even while they work with a calculator.
“My favourite is math, so, at some point, I didn’t want to mention it. For the core math, I didn’t use a calculator. My thing is that with the way I love math, I want it to be memorable so that one day, if I sit down, I will say, you know, Tyron, you did try your best,” he said.
I chose not to use a calculator for the WASSCE Core Mathematics paper – Tyrone Marhguy
Tyron Marghuy, a Ghanaian student, gained widespread recognition due to his legal battle with Achimota School over his dreadlocks. In 2021, he faced an initial denial of admission to the school, citing his hairstyle as a violation of the institution’s rules.
Marghuy, along with another Rastafarian student, Oheneba Kwaku Nkrabea, took legal action against the school, alleging discrimination and violation of their human rights.
The High Court ruled in their favour, mandating the school admit them.
However, Oheneba Kwaku Nkrabea eventually secured a scholarship to enrol at Ghana International School, while Tyron Marghuy joined Achimota School.
Remarkably, Marghuy sat for his end-of-term examination mere hours after being admitted, marking a significant chapter in his journey.
Jude Bellingham has ascended to the pinnacle of football’s transfer value chart after an impressive start at Real Madrid, now commanding a valuation of €268 million (£231 million/$292 million).
The England international made the move to Spain in the summer of 2023, with Real Madrid agreeing to a substantial €103 million (£89 million/$112 million) transfer fee.
Since his departure from Borussia Dortmund, the 20-year-old midfielder has elevated his game to new heights, notching 17 goals in 22 appearances.
Bellingham’s stellar performances have earned him prestigious accolades such as the Kopa Trophy and Golden Boy Award, solidifying his status as a potential future Ballon d’Or winner.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ed4ZIqFPHTY
CIES Football Observatory now deems the Three Lions star as the most valuable player globally, with his complete potential unlocked on the field.
Following closely is prolific Manchester City striker Erling Haaland, occupying the second spot on the list with a value of €251 million (£216 million/$274 million), boosted by his role in inspiring a treble triumph last season.
Vinicius Junior, Bellingham’s teammate at Santiago Bernabeu, secures the third position with a valuation of €250 million (£215 million/$273 million).
Other notable names in the top five include Real Madrid’s Rodrygo and Arsenal winger Bukayo Saka, valued at €248 million (£214 million/$271 million) and €223 million (£193 million/$243 million), respectively.
Kylian Mbappe has acknowledged the existence of a transfer “agreement” at Paris Saint-Germain, yet clubs such as Real Madrid and Liverpool are eagerly awaiting his decision. The World Cup-winning French international is now in the final six months of his contract with Parc des Princes.
This grants him the freedom to engage in discussions with clubs beyond Ligue 1, with no extension clause activated thus far.
Real Madrid and Liverpool have both been linked to the 25-year-old prolific forward, PSG’s all-time leading goalscorer. Despite being in the final months of his contract, Mbappe, who previously waited until the last moment to sign his latest deal in 2022, has yet to provide clarity on his future plans. This leaves fans and the football community in suspense, with speculation surrounding his potential move intensifying.
Mbappe said after helping PSG to Trophee des Champions glory in a 2-0 victory over Toulouse: “I haven’t made my decision. I didn’t make a choice. But in any case, with the agreement I made with the president this summer, whatever my decision, we managed to protect all the parties.
“And to preserve the serenity of the club for the challenges to come. Which is the most important? When will I decide? I do not know. In 2022, I waited because I didn’t know until May.
“If I know what I’m going to do, I’m not going to hang around. That does not make any sense. But, like I said, the most important thing is to win trophies. The team and the group are looking towards that. My situation, no one talks about it within the club. I just want to help win trophies, like I did today.”
Pressed further on whether being used as a roaming central striker rather than a wide forward will influence his decision to stay at PSG, Mbappe added, “My position? When I speak with Luis Enrique, he tells me that a good player can play in several positions. I think
I’m a good player. Today, I play in the centre. But no matter what position we play, it adapts according to the qualities of the player. Which means that we are not disoriented. I would have no problem performing. Does this freedom on the pitch encourage me to stay at PSG? What is the relationship between the two things? I have always been important. It is a continuation of the evolution that I have had since my arrival in Paris.”
Getafe have officially submitted an appeal in a bid to overturn Mason Greenwood’s red card, seeking to prevent his absence from the team due to suspension.
Greenwood received a red card for dissent just 50 minutes into Getafe’s La Liga match against Rayo Vallecano on Tuesday. The alleged incident involved the attacker uttering “f*ck you” to the referee.
However, Greenwood’s account of the incident contrasts with the official report submitted to the Spanish League.
Getafe has lodged an appeal, as reported by Marca, seeking a swift response to determine the extent of punishment for one of their key players.
The club is currently awaiting clarification on the matter. This player is not the sole Getafe member facing disciplinary issues; teammates Juanmi Latasa and Damian Suarez received red cards in the same match, while Jaime Mata is suspended after accumulating his fifth yellow card of the season.
Mason Greenwood, a standout performer for Getafe this season on loan from Manchester United, has contributed significantly with three goals and four assists in 15 La Liga matches.
https://www.youtube.com/shorts/6u-b4JgnREQ
Getafe is keen on securing his services permanently, having reportedly submitted a £40 million ($51 million) offer.
Despite interest fromAtletico Madrid and Barcelona, the latter is reportedly hesitant due to past charges of sexual assault and domestic violence against Greenwood, which were later dropped.
The appeal from Getafe, coupled with hopes for a positive outcome, is aimed at swiftly resolving the disciplinary situation, allowing Greenwood to rejoin the squad for upcoming matches.
The club, along with the Englishman, anticipates favourable news regarding the appeal to move forward positively.
In 2023, Abdul Samad Rabiu, the Nigerian billionaire business magnate and second-wealthiest individual, faced a substantial setback as his net worth plunged by US$1.8 billion, resulting in a year-end total of US$5.7 billion.
Forbes reports that Rabiu, who began 2023 with a net worth of US$7.5 billion, experienced this decline due to the impact of the Central Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN) free float policy.
Despite maintaining his position as Nigeria’s second-richest person, trailing only Aliko Dangote, Rabiu lost his standing on the Bloomberg Billionaires Index.
This downturn marked a challenging year for Rabiu, highlighting the complexities and uncertainties in the economic landscape.
In 2023, the Nigerian naira experienced a significant decline against the U.S. dollar, marking one of the most substantial depreciations since the country’s return to democracy in 1999.
The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) consolidated all segments of the foreign exchange market into the Investors and Exporters window, adopting the willing buyer, willing seller model. Bloomberg forecasts a continued devaluation of the naira in 2024.
Bloomberg’s data revealed a 55-percent depreciation of the naira in 2023, hitting its lowest point on the official NAFEM market at N1,099.05/$ on December 8, 2023.
The currency concluded the year at N907.11/$, earning the title of the worst-performing currency in Africa.
Amidst the naira devaluation policyinitiated by the CBN in June 2023, Rabiu faced a loss amounting to one-third of his wealth within three months.
However, leveraging the surge in the share price of his integrated food business, BUA Foods, he managed to mitigate his wealth loss during the year to $1.8 billion.
This financial strategy showcased Rabiu’s resilience in navigating the challenging economic landscape and adapting to the dynamic market conditions.
Ghana’s official creditors are scheduled to convene on Monday, January 8, to deliberate on the restructuring of approximately $5.4 billion in loans to the country, according to Reuters.
This meeting holds significant importance for Ghana’s ability to secure its next tranche of funding from the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
The Official Creditor Committee (OCC), co-chaired by the governments of the People’s Republic of China and France, will be central to these discussions. Collectively, these two countries, among other bilateral lenders, account for about 25% of Ghana’s $20 billion external debt slated for restructuring.
The Reuters report suggests that the meeting will primarily focus on reaching a consensus regarding a ‘cut-off date.’ This date is pivotal in determining when new loans from bilateral creditors will no longer be subject to restructuring.
The definition of this date has become a key challenge in Ghana’s debt restructuring efforts.
The report indicates that the external creditors are divided on the exact cut-off date. One group advocates for December 31, 2022, as the cut-off date, citing Ghana’s default earlier in that month.
Conversely, another group pushes for March 24, 2020, the date when the Group of 20 introduced the debt service suspension initiative (DSSI) to assist the world’s poorest countries during the COVID-19 crisis.
The divergence of opinions on the cut-off date underscores the complexities involved in Ghana’s debt rework and highlights the challenges in reaching a unified approach among the country’s official creditors.
The outcome of this meeting will not only impact Ghana’s debt restructuring process but will also have broader implications for its financial standing and international support from institutions like the IMF.
“Ghana is still about cut-off date, but creditors haven’t agreed yet,” a source from Reuters said. “If the cut-off date is agreed upon, that means an agreement on debt restructuring is close.”
In preparation for the OCC meeting on January 8, the Paris Club, consisting ofmajor creditor nations (excluding China), will convene on Friday, according to two sources.
As Sierra Leone’s national team, the Leone Stars, readies itself for a friendly match against the hosts of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), concerns have emerged regarding the training facilities following pictures of the team practicing on a dust-laden, grassless pitch.
Although the Leone Stars did not qualify for the AFCON tournament in Ivory Coast, they perceive this friendly encounter as a vital test ahead of their World Cup qualifiers resuming in March.
The less-than-ideal training conditions have sparked conversations among fans and observers, with images of the team honing their skills on a subpar pitch raising eyebrows.
Despite this setback, the Leone Stars remain focused on their opening game against Guinea-Bissau at the Olympic Stadium in Ebimpe on January 13.
For 2015 AFCON Champions Ivory Coast, this friendly match serves as a strategic opportunity to assess their readiness for the upcoming tournament, where they find themselves grouped with Nigeria, Equatorial Guinea, and Guinea-Bissau in Group A.
Eager to make a significant impact as hosts and surpass the quarter-final exit from the last edition, the Elephants are determined to showcase their prowess.
The upcoming friendly clash holds added significance as the last encounter between Sierra Leone and Ivory Coast during the 2021 AFCON inCameroon resulted in a 2-2 draw.
Both teams, utilizing this match to fine-tune their strategies, set the stage for an intriguing prelude to the much-anticipated AFCON tournament in Ivory Coast.
Amidst discussions about the pitch conditions, the friendly match offers a glimpse into the teams’ preparations and aspirations for success on the continental stage.
Award-winning artist Charles Nii Armah Mensah, better known by hisstage name Shatta Wale, has revealed that he plans to travel to Tamale to assist chef Failatu Abdul-Razak in her attempt to set a record for the longest cooking marathon ever undertaken by a single person.
In a Facebook post, Shatta Wale stated, “Now I can go to Tamale to eat Faila’s food some, Who wanna go with me ? Tamale my home”.
Chef Failatu Abdul-Razak is currently undertaking a remarkable challenge to secure a Guinness World Record for the longest cooking marathon by an individual.
Her culinary marathon, taking place at the Modern City Hotel in Tamale, Northern Region, spans from January 1, 2024, to January 5, 2024.
However, it’s worth noting that Ugandan chef Dorcus Mirembe, also known as Mama D, has recently achieved a significant feat.
She successfully surpassed the existing Guinness World Record for the longest cooking marathon, previously held by Irish chef Alan Fisher. Fisher’s record stood at 119 hours and 57 minutes.
Mama D, with an impressive cooking time of 144 hours and 20 minutes, has now set a new benchmark for this culinary endurance challenge.
Her achievement adds a new chapter to the captivating world of culinary records and sets a high bar for those following in her footsteps, including Chef Failatu Abdul-Razak’s ongoing attempt.
In a heartfelt display of support and well-wishing, West Ham United has extended its warm regards to star midfielder Mohammed Kudus as he prepares for the highly anticipated 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
As the tournament promises to showcase the pinnacle of African football talent, West Ham firmly stands behind Kudus, acknowledging not only his on-field prowess but also the immense pride he brings to the club.
Recognised as a pivotal figure in West Ham’s dynamic play, the talented midfielder has shone brightly in the Premier League, and the club eagerly anticipates his center-stage performance on the continental platform.
In a statement released today, West Ham conveyed their best wishes to Kudus, expressing confidence in his ability to make a significant impact on this prestigious tournament. The message reinforces the club’s unwavering support for their player and their pride in his representation on the international stage.
“Good luck to Mo and Nayef as they represent their countries at #AFCON2023 ⚒️,” West Ham posted on X.
Mohammed Kudus has made 16 appearances, scored six goals, and assisted one in the Premier League this season.
