An elderly woman’s routine visit to church on Good Friday took a tragic turn when she was fatally attacked by a swarm of angry bees.
The incident occurred at a local Catholic Church in Owuoso, situated in the Sekyere South District of the Ashanti Region, as congregants gathered for service.
Witnesses reported that the bees launched their assault as worshippers exited the church onto the main road to conclude the day’s events.
The sudden attack prompted chaos as congregants scrambled for safety, enduring multiple stings from the enraged insects.
Assemblyman Akwasi Tawia, representing the Owuoso Electoral Area, recounted the harrowing ordeal to Asaase News, highlighting that even non-members were not spared from the attack.
“What happened is a sad one. We haven’t seen such a thing before. We still can’t ascertain the source of the swarm of bees. We were told they were praying in church when they were attacked by the swarm of bees. Even a teacher and her Canadian guest were also attacked. Most of them, including the Reverend Father had to take cover”.
“The elderly woman suffered severe injury and so she was rescued and rushed to the Agona Government Hospital, but died moments later. Those who survived with minor injuries were being treated at the same hospital, even most of them have been discharged”.
The cause of the bee attack remains unclear, prompting traditional authorities to initiate rituals aimed at averting potential calamities that could afflict the town.
A bee sting occurs when the stinger of a female bee pierces the skin, resulting in pain and a wound. Unlike insect bites, bee stings can vary in severity due to the chemical composition of the venom.
Individual reactions to bee stings may differ depending on the species of bee involved. While most people experience mild pain from bee venom, the severity of the reaction can vary.
One common home remedy for alleviating bee sting discomfort is to apply wet aspirin or aspirin paste to the affected area.
Over 20 Malian political groups and civil society organizations convened on Sunday (March 31) to issue a collective declaration advocating for the organization of a presidential election and the establishment of a set date, marking the end of the transition period.
According to former minister Amadou Koïta of the Malian socialist party, Yelen Kura, the transition period commenced on March 26, 2022, initially scheduled for 18 months and subsequently extended, with the expectation of concluding last Tuesday (March 26).
The coalition of groups urges the transitional authorities to institute the necessary legal and institutional mechanisms to facilitate Mali’s return to its regular constitutional order, ensuring political stability and sustainable development.
Since 2020, Mali has experienced successive executive coups led by Colonel Assimi Goïta, who currently serves as the interim president of Mali.
During his interim tenure, Goïta has implemented several shifts in foreign policy. Notably, on September 16, 2023, he, along with the leaders of Burkina Faso and Niger, Captain Ibrahim Traoré and Abdourahamane Tchiani, established the Alliance of Sahel States (AES). Additionally, on January 28, 2024, the troika announced their withdrawal from ECOWAS.
Under his leadership, Mali has strengthened its ties with Russia while scaling back connections with its former colonial ruler, France.
Since November 2023, Mali has entered into two significant economic agreements with Russia: the construction of a gold refinery in Bamako, Mali’s capital, and a collaboration with Russian company Rosatom to explore minerals and develop nuclear energy.
Personal data belonging to 73 million current or former AT&T customers has been exposed online.
The leaked information includes addresses, social security numbers, and passcodes, and was discovered on the dark web, according to the US telecoms giant.
AT&T stated that while they have not found evidence indicating the data was stolen, they have enlisted cybersecurity experts to conduct an investigation.
As a precautionary measure, the company has reset customers’ passcodes and advised them to monitor their account activity and credit reports.
The compromised data appears to be from 2019 or earlier and affects 7.6 million current customers and 65.4 million former account holders. It includes details such as full names, email addresses, and dates of birth, although AT&T assured that financial information was not part of the leak.
In a statement, AT&T mentioned uncertainty regarding the source of the data, whether from their own systems or a third-party supplier.
Covering approximately 290 million people across the US with its wireless 5G network, AT&T is one of the largest mobile and internet service providers in the country.
Earlier this year, the company faced scrutiny after a significant outage left tens of thousands of phone users unable to use their devices for approximately 12 hours. Prosecutors in New York launched an investigation into the incident, prompting AT&T to issue apologies and offer affected users a $5 credit.
A British student nurse tragically died in Ghana after going for a midnight swim with friends while on a placement.
Millie Ann Gentry, 19, from Cleckheaton, West Yorkshire, was two weeks into a one month volunteer programme in the west African country when she drowned.
The tragedy happened on March 17 last year but the details have now been made public with the teen’s inquest opening this week.
Gentry was staying with Erin Byrnes, from Halifax, in Busua – a beach resort town in southern Ghana.
The coroners’ court heard that the two friends had decided to go for a late night dip with their friend Lewis Mallinson after drinking at the beach bar.
They defied a 10.30pm curfew to nip out for a swim at half past midnight but encountered strong waves.
“I laid on my back, screaming for help. I was so close to giving up,” she said.
After returning to the beach, both she and Mr. Mallinson managed to summon assistance in the search for Ms. Gentry. Despite their efforts, her body was discovered four hours later.
Mallinson recounted that numerous nearby villages rallied together to aid in the rescue mission. A subsequent post-mortem examination revealed that she had sustained a head injury.
According to The Mirror, Ms. Gentry had a boyfriend named Elvis, and her placement in Ghana was described as the “trip of a lifetime” for her.
Busia Beach resort in Ghana
A Crowdfunding page has now been set up to support the Gentry family.
A statement on the site reads: “Mims was a beloved member of the Gomersal Primary School community as well as daughter to one of our much loved colleagues and friends.
“As a past pupil Millie will be remembered as a bright, smiley and caring individual.
“She was studying to be a children’s nurse at Bradford University and participating in a volunteer program in Ghana.
“She will be sorely missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew her.”
The page, at the time of writing, had raised more than £4,000.
In parts of central Mozambique, devastating droughts have decimated crops, leaving residents to rely on wild fruits and tubers for sustenance.
The severe food shortages have led to dozens of families being displaced from their homes in Sofala province, seeking refuge in neighboring areas of Manica province, according to local authorities.
Mozambique, with its geographical position and coastal vulnerability, is highly susceptible to the destructive impacts of the El Niño weather phenomenon, which have been exacerbated by the ongoing climate crisis.
Candido Zeca, a district official overseeing economic affairs in the hard-hit area of Chemba, acknowledges that insufficient assistance has been provided to those in need.
However, he assures that food aid and agricultural resources are en route to alleviate the situation.
Monday night witnessed a horrific road accident at Salama along the Mombasa-Nairobi highway, claiming the lives of ten individuals on the spot.
According to Mukaa Sub-County Police Commander Barnabas Ng’eno, the accident involved five vehicles: an 18-seater matatu registered to Spannish Sacco, a 14-seater matatu registered to NAEKANA Sacco, two trucks, and a saloon car.
The tragic incident occurred around 8:30 pm as the vehicles were traveling through the notorious black spot area of Mlima Kiu.
“It happened that motor vehicle registration number KBC 564M Isuzu FSR was being driven from Nairobi general direction towards Mombasa general direction and on reaching the accident site, the driver failed to keep to his proper lane and also made a sudden right turn without due care and attention resulting in a head-on collision with motor vehicle registration number KDK 259U Toyota Hiace matatu of Spanish Sacco,” Mr Ng’eno said in a statement.
The impact of the collision triggered a new wave of collisions involving the other vehicles.
“Due to the impact of the accident, 10 passengers in different motor vehicles are feared dead while others are seriously injured and have been rushed to Sultan Hamud Hospital,” Mr Ng’eno added.
Ivory Coast’s President, Alassane Ouattara, has announced an increase in the official cocoa farmgate price to 1,500 CFA francs per kilogram, equivalent to $2.47, effective from Tuesday, April 2, 2024.
Sources familiar with the matter, reported by Accra-based media outlet Asaase Radio, indicate that the decision was reached during a significant government meeting held on Saturday, March 30, 2024.
Initial reports suggested that President Ouattara had initially agreed to a proposal for a price increment ranging between 1,100 and 1,200 CFA per kilogram. However, he later reversed this decision, opting for an even higher price.
Efforts to obtain comments from the government and the cocoa regulator, the Coffee and Cocoa Council (CCC), were unsuccessful on Sunday.
Despite cocoa prices soaring more than threefold over the past year due to disease outbreaks and adverse weather conditions, resulting in the global market experiencing a third consecutive deficit, the official farmgate price in Ivory Coast, a leading cocoa producer, has yet to reflect this surge.
“There were several proposals on the table and as a last resort, the president wanted the highest possible price for the producers so he decided 1,500 CFA per kg instead of 1,200 CFA, which had been validated previously,” the director of a European export company told Reuters.
“Ultimately in the current context, this is the best possible price that the CCC can pay because the sales system in Ivory Coast is such that it is difficult to change prices during the season,” the person told Asaase Radio.
The director of another international export company told Asaase Radio that: “The president judged the world market situation to be exceptional and wanted an exceptional reaction too.”
President of the Ghana Medical Association (GMA), Dr. Frank Serebour, has advised hospital administrators to take proactive measures in securing alternative power sources due to the inconsistent electricity supply from the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG).
Emphasizing the vital role hospitals play in saving lives and caring for patients, Dr. Serebour stressed the importance of ensuring uninterrupted power supply to maintain essential medical services.
“We are in an emergency situation, so we have to plan whether there is continuous power supply or not. Even if your generator is not in use, you still have to ensure that it is maintained. You do not have the luxury to give excuses that you did not have power because your standby generator was not working,” he contended.
Dr. Serebour issued this appeal amidst the country’s power challenges, which have adversely affected critical services such as hospitals, and amidst calls for the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) to furnish a schedule to enable institutions and individuals to plan accordingly.
Speaking with Millicent Safo-Adu on Bresosem at Abusua FM, Dr. Serebour emphasized that hospital administrators cannot solely rely on the Electricity Company of Ghana or a predetermined timetable.
As the Medical Superintendent for the Bekwai Government Hospital, Dr. Serebour recounted his efforts to maintain consistent power supply at his facility despite the highly irregular electricity from the national grid.
“If you come to Bekwai Hospital, for instance, almost every hour the power will go off and come back. It’s not because ECG is not providing power, but we do have panels that ensure that every time power fluctuates to either high or too low voltage, it cuts off due to the machines we use.
“Immediately after that, the generator set will kick in. When the power becomes stable, the panel will switch off the generator set and revert to ECG,” he explained.
Discussing the necessity for a schedule to aid contingency planning, Dr. Serebour asserted that a hospital, being an emergency facility, cannot function akin to a household with a fixed timetable.
“A Hospital is an emergency centre. A hospital is not a home. Whether there’s electricity or not, you must plan. Therefore, you can’t tell us there’s a power outage and you were not given a timetable, so you don’t have light. It’s not acceptable,” he stated
Tema General Hospital case
Dr. Serebour was of the view that the Tema General Hospital’s 2 hour power outage debacle which culminated in the suspected case of a baby dying as a result of the incident, was avoidable.
He disclosed that when Tema Government Hospital experienced a power outage, Bekwai Government Hospital faced a similar issue due to a faulty panel.
“At the time Tema Government Hospital did not have power, Bekwai Government Hospital also did not have electricity because their ACB Panel that ensures ECG power was faulty.
We ran on a generator for three days continuously, but nobody heard anything about the power outage issue. We were able to restore power yesterday, and that was when we agreed to replace and buy the new ACB 25A panel at a cost of Ghc122, 548. 87. I could have said we couldn’t pay, so the power should have been turned off”, he pointed out.
He advised managers to focus on local system management and have contingency plans in place.
“It’s time for managers to narrow down how they manage our systems locally. What were the management doing? Tema General Hospital is a big facility; you can have a generator and a backup as well. Assuming the generator is not functioning, what was their alternate plan that resulted in a two-hour outage?”
Dr. Serebour urged managers of health facilities to understand the critical nature of healthcare services.
“We must know where we are, how sensitive the work we’re doing is, and put in measures to ensure that when there are emergencies, we are able to deal with them, especially with power issues and water.”
In the aftermath of a steady ascent spanning two years, the price of cocoa beans has surged dramatically this year, with futures contracts more than doubling in just three months, reaching a level in March twice as high as the previous record.
This escalation has its origins in the fields of small West African farms but is also influenced by climate change and the intricacies of the futures market.
The recent spike has been fueled in part by financial instability, a common occurrence when commodity prices rise rapidly, overwhelming strategies designed to mitigate such volatility.
The inevitable outcome is likely to be pricier chocolate, possibly in smaller portions. Even if prices retreat from their current peaks, they are expected to remain elevated for the foreseeable future. Economists often assert that the solution to high prices is high prices themselves, as they can diminish demand, stimulate increases in supply, or both.
However, the cocoa situation illustrates the complexity of this concept in practice, given market intricacies and stubborn realities such as the lengthy gestation period of cocoa trees.
Current Status
Cocoa futures in both New York and London have reached unprecedented nominal dollar highs, surpassing the peaks observed in 1977 during another cocoa scarcity.
New York futures hit an intraday peak of $10,080 per metric ton on March 26 and have since remained above $9,500, while London beans traded above £8,000 per ton (approximately $10,000).
Prior to this surge, New York futures had predominantly stayed below $3,500 since the 1980s.
The surge in prices is driven by an all-time supply crunch, with the world projected to experience a third consecutive year of deficits.
According to the International Cocoa Organization, production is anticipated to fall short of demand in 2024 by 374,000 tons, while manufacturer Barry Callebaut predicts a gap of approximately 500,000 tons, equivalent to about a tenth of the global market.
How we got here
Unlike most crops grown for global commodity markets, cocoa is produced not by large scale plantations but by small farmers, many in West Africa, which has dominated the trade for decades. Ivory Coast and Ghana are still forecast to supply 53% of the world’s cocoa in the current season — a share that was even higher before current crop issues. Here are some of the factors that have been driving down production:
Both rain and drought have been more severe than usual in West Africa Swamped fields have worsened the spread of diseases like black pod disease and swollen-shoot virus, which are rotting pods and killing trees, and the tree stock is also aging
The small farmers in Ivory Coast and Ghana have long been underpaid; since governments set prices in each country before each new growing season, producers have yet to profit from the current rally
Low pay has hampered farmers’ ability to invest in improvements and fend off disease, limiting how much cocoa their trees can yield
What else is driving the price spike
The record cocoa shortage produced by those factors can account for the generally higher trend in prices, and Citi Research analysts had pointed last month to a trading range between $7,000 to $10,000 a ton. But the magnitude of the latest surge — which saw New York cocoa futures rise more than $1,000 during two sessions — has led market watchers to believe financial drivers are also at play.
This occurs because traders typically utilize the futures market to hedge risks associated with the physical market.
Sellers, holding cocoa inventory, anticipate price increases but safeguard themselves by placing bets on declining prices. If prices rise, their gains from the stockpiles outweigh the expenses incurred from these short positions.
Conversely, if prices decline and their inventory loses value, these short bets mitigate some of the losses.
Such hedging strategies prove effective when commodities fluctuate within a moderate range. However, sharp and unilateral market movements complicate matters due to the necessity for traders to provide collateral to cover their futures contracts.
If prices consistently rise and escalate significantly, the additional collateral requirements may become prohibitively expensive. Consequently, some traders opt to close their positions, which entails purchasing more cocoa contracts, further driving up prices.
To maintain market stability, the Intercontinental Exchange has implemented measures such as reducing the volume of cocoa that traders can purchase through the London exchange.
This entails a reduction in the delivery limit, decreasing from 75,000 tons in May to 50,000 tons in July, with further reductions to 25,000 tons for contracts starting from December onward.
What this means for consumers
Chocolatiers are doing all they can to offset higher costs — hiking retail prices, shrinking pack sizes, maximizing efficiency and pushing products with less cocoa. But those shifts are just the beginning: Companies hedge prices and secure supplies well in advance, so the impact of the new, record-high futures hasn’t fully trickled down to retail shelves yet. Chocolate makers are likely to see that inflation over six to 12 months, and then consumers will face it too, according to Bloomberg Intelligence.
The pinch will also be felt by chocolate processors and their workers. Plants in Ghana have been closed intermittently because of supply shortages. Major cocoa processors Barry Callebaut AG and Blommer Chocolate Co. have also said they would be shutting down facilities and laying off employees
Who’s winning, who’s losing
Higher prices are good in the long run for farmers, who have long been underpaid. But so far, growers in the world’s biggest-producing countries are also the ones missing out on the rally’s full profits. That’s because Ivory Coast and Ghana’s governments set cocoa prices based on sales made a year earlier.
Farmers in Ivory Coast are receiving 1,000 CFA francs per kilogram, while those in Ghana are getting 20,928 cedis a ton – both equating to about $1,600 per ton. Producers in Ivory Coast are pushing for more pay for the mid-crop harvest starting in April, but the country’s industry regulator has proposed keeping prices the same, Bloomberg reported.
Meanwhile, farmers in liberalized markets like in Brazil, Ecuador, Cameroon and Nigeria are ramping up production to take advantage of higher prices. Brazil and Cameroon are trying to double output by the end of the decade, while Ecuador is targeting 800,000 tons of output
by 2030 — an amount that could allow the nation to overtake Ghana to become the world’s second-largest producer, behind only Ivory Coast. But trees take time to grow, so it will be at least three years before new pods provide supply relief. European Union rules preventing the trade of products linked to deforestation could also limit acreage expansion for cocoa and crunch supplies in the world’s biggest chocolate-consuming region.
The longer term prospects
Supply isn’t likely to make a rapid recovery. The smaller mid-crop harvest in Ivory Coast that is just kicking off is expected to be weaker than last year, and some are already bracing for another deficit next season.
On the other side of the equation, expensive chocolate is already weighing on demand, prompting consumers to pick up less of it. Favorable weather could facilitate a quicker recovery in production. Governments in Ivory Coast and Ghana could also increase the amount paid to farmers. That would fund reinvestments in pesticides, fertilizer and labor to boost 2025 crop yields. New producers in Latin America and elsewhere, lured by high prices, will also start contributing to global supply in the years to come.
Today, April 2, 2024, the Bank of Ghana‘s Interbank forex rates indicate that the Ghana Cedi is being traded against the US Dollar at a buying price of 12.8706 and a selling price of 12.8834.
Meanwhile, at a Forex bureau in Accra, the Dollar is being bought at 13.20 and sold at 13.60.
Against the Pound Sterling, the Cedi’s exchange rate stands at a buying price of 16.2529 and a selling price of 16.2705. Conversely, at a Forex Bureau in Accra, the Pound Sterling is bought at 16.40 and sold at 17.00.
The Euro is valued at a buying price of 13.8962 and a selling price of 13.9100. Similarly, at a Forex Bureau in Accra, the Euro can be purchased at 14.00 and sold at 14.60.
Regarding the South African Rand, it is being bought at 0.6786 and sold at 0.6789. However, at a forex bureau in Accra, the Rand is bought at 0.40 and sold at 1.10.
The Nigerian Naira’s exchange rate shows a buying price of 109.9301 and a selling price of 110.3961. In Accra’s forex bureaus, the Naira is bought at 8.50 Naira for every 1 Cedi and sold at 13.50.
Lastly, the CFA Franc is being traded at a buying price of 47.1572 and a selling price of 47.2041. At Accra’s forex bureaus, the CFA Franc is purchased at 21.00 CFA for every 1 Cedi and sold at 23.00 CFA for every 1 Cedi.
Note that these rates may differ at a forex bureau near you. Our forex bureau rates are provided by Afriswap Bureau De Change in Osu, Accra.
Our forex bureau rates are provided by Afriswap Bureau De Change in Osu, Accra.
It’s widely acknowledged that for any sophisticated scam to succeed, it must be meticulously orchestrated, believable, and achieve its intended goals, often leaving victims with feelings of loss, pain, anger, and denial.
John Ackah Blay-Miezah’s illegal endeavors were so intricate that they attracted international attention as he duped high-profile individuals, including presidents, businessmen, politicians, and ordinary citizens.
According to excerpts from Yepoka Yeebo’s book, “ANANSI’S GOLD: The Man Who Looted the West, Outfoxed Washington, and Swindled the World,” Blay-Miezah’s exploits unfolded in the 1970s, amidst Ghana’s severe economic crisis characterized by staggering inflation rates reaching 117 percent and a drastic decline in cocoa production, the nation’s primary export.
Against this backdrop, Blay-Miezah emerged as a deceptive figure, portraying ostentatious wealth, influential connections, and deep pockets—a common theme among scammers. He masqueraded as a prosperous businessman promising immense riches to those who bought into his deceptive narratives.
Among his schemes, the most notorious, as recounted by freelance journalist Anakwa Dwamena in a review published in the New York Times, involved Blay-Miezah’s claim in 1972 that Ghana’s first president, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, divulged a secret on his deathbed. Blay alleged that Nkrumah had concealed vast quantities of gold bars and substantial sums of cash in Swiss bank vaults.
He asserted that access to these funds could only be facilitated by him as Nkrumah’s confidant, with the condition that certain Trust requirements were met. Blay-Miezah persuaded investors (victims) that upon compliance, the funds would be released by Swiss authorities, with a portion allocated for Ghana’s development, and the remainder shared among himself and his eager investors.
Despite the implausibility of his narrative, suspicions lingered regarding the veracity of Blay-Miezah’s claims, even years later.
Blay-Miezah’s knack for reading people and weaving elaborate lies was honed during his upbringing in a coastal village, where he learned the art of deception and petty thievery. Following imprisonment for petty theft, he found himself alongside influential figures who had fallen out of favor with the authorities, propelling him further up the ladder of deception.
These elites, according to the book review by Anakwa Dwamena, provided the stage for Blay-Miezah to learn “how a powerful man should sit, how he should nod his head, how he should take up space in a room.”
In the same confined space, he met a radical chaplain, from whom Blay-Miezah stole his language by learning how to speak boldly, with affluence.
Yepoka Yeebo’s book, however, details that years on, Blay-Miezah and his partners “were selling liberation: a chance to repair the wounds of colonialism. To everyone else, they were selling the chance to loot an African country’s ancestral wealth.”
After serving his time in prison, he intended to remain on good terms with the political regime in power. He then embarked on the quest to acquire a diplomatic passport to convince his investors that he had exclusive access to the funds [Nkrumah’s supposed Trust in the Swiss vault].
His schemes became so grand that he was wanted for fraud in Liberia as well as being trailed by U.S security operatives.
“He’s full of lies,” a former Ghanaian diplomat said to U.S. prosecutors.
Not only were his investment schemes fake, but they were elaborate to the extent that his American victims considered them as speculative investments, while others came to terms that their returns would rather take years to yield any results.
Blay-Miezah, who was fond of wearing tailored suits and smoked cigars, drove a white Rolls-Royce and was often accompanied by a team of security personnel who were said to be former special forces soldiers.
Over a 15-year period, Blay-Miezah conducted these fake schemes, scamming many people amounting to millions. His American partner, for instance, is said to have scammed at least 300 people for a total of $15 million.
He became wanted so much that one of his investors embarked on a mission to Accra where he tried to personally choke Blay-Miezah in hopes of securing his investment back.
When reality finally caught up with him, Blay-Miezah was indicted on several counts of wire fraud. The government of Ghana at the time, seemed willing to extradite him but he escaped again from a prison in Pennsylvania.
John Ackah Blay-Miezah died in 1992 while under house arrest for deceiving and embarrassing the government and even in death, he caused one final confusion among his family members by convincing them that he had a non-existent $15 billion sitting in a bank abroad.
Ackah Blay-Miezah and his associates [Image credit: Yepoka Yeebo’s book]
Recent analysis by Black Star Brokerage suggests that with the implementation of the new Cash Reserve Requirement (CRR) policy, an estimated GH¢16.2 billion – equivalent to $1.2 billion – could migrate from banks to the Bank of Ghana (BoG). This shift is anticipated to tighten cedi liquidity, potentially leading to a short-term appreciation of the currency.
The CRR mandates commercial banks to reserve a portion of their deposits, both in local and foreign currencies, with the central bank. This measure aims to encourage banks to prioritize regular lending, thereby influencing economic activities.
In the press briefing of the 117th Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meetings, Dr. Ernest Addison, the central bank Governor, highlighted a significant decline in credit extended to businesses and individuals. The percentage dropped from 29.5 to 5.1 between February 2023 and February 2024, indicating a considerable reduction in funds available for business investments, expansion, and job creation.
Dr. Addison attributed this trend to banks’ preference for investing in government securities, as evidenced by a surge in bank investments in short-term Treasury and BoG instruments. Year-on-year growth in these investments reached 67.6 percent in February 2024, amounting to GH¢53.6 billion, compared to a 36.9 percent increase the previous year.
Regarding the new CRR directive, GCB Capital characterized it as the conclusion of an era of ‘free money’, anticipating a reduced reliance on Treasury bills by banks and a shift towards increased credit creation.
“It appears the era of ‘free cash’ from passive investments driving profits is over as banks will now have to ‘earn’ their profits. As a result, we expect a drastic decline in banks’ appetite for T-bills in favour of credit creation to avoid the higher brackets of the new CRR directive,” GCB Capital said.
Recent insights from Black Star Brokerage forecast a potential migration of approximately GH¢16.2 billion (equivalent to $1.2 billion) from commercial banks to the Bank of Ghana (BoG) following the implementation of the new Cash Reserve Requirement (CRR) policy. This shift is expected to tighten cedi liquidity, potentially triggering a short-term appreciation of the currency.
The CRR directive mandates commercial banks to reserve a portion of their deposits, both in local and foreign currencies, with the central bank. The primary objective is to incentivize banks to prioritize regular lending, thereby influencing economic activities.
During the press briefing of the 117th Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meetings, Dr. Ernest Addison, Governor of the central bank, highlighted a notable decline in credit extended to businesses and individuals. The percentage plummeted from 29.5 to 5.1 between February 2023 and February 2024, indicating a substantial reduction in funds available for business investments, expansion, and job creation.
Dr. Addison attributed this trend to banks’ inclination towards investing in government securities, as evidenced by a surge in bank investments in short-term Treasury and BoG instruments. Year-on-year growth in these investments soared to 67.6 percent in February 2024, totaling GH¢53.6 billion, compared to a 36.9 percent increase the previous year.
In response to the new CRR directive, GCB Capital characterized it as marking the end of an era of ‘free money’. They anticipate a diminished reliance on Treasury bills by banks and a shift towards increased credit creation in the foreseeable future.
“With the BoG also facing high-interest costs – around the policy rate – for its OMO operations amid the need to mop up excess liquidity to douse inflation, the directive will sweep substantial liquidity from the system – without the bank’s response – at no cost to the regulator,” GCB Capital said.
The Bank of Ghana’s recent decision stems from challenges encountered by banks due to the domestic debt exchange program (DDEP), triggered by their overexposure to government debt. Effective April 1, 2024, the new policy requires banks with loan-to-deposit ratios (LDR) exceeding 55 percent to maintain 15 percent of their deposits as reserves (CRR), while those with ratios below 40 percent must reserve at least 25 percent of their deposits.
In essence, the BoG is urging banks to bolster their loan portfolios to avoid holding idle cash without yielding returns. The directive is clear: either increase lending risks or face limitations in investing in treasury bills.
Black Star Brokerage’s analysis encompassed 21 out of 23 banks, excluding UBA and CBG due to data unavailability.
Among the scrutinized banks, Société Générale exhibited the highest Loan-to-Deposit Ratio (LDR) at 74.6 percent, surpassing the 55 percent threshold. Six banks maintained LDRs between 40 percent and 55 percent. They were ADB (52.37 percent), Bank of Africa (47.83 percent), First National Bank (47 percent), CAL Bank (42.81 percent), Republic Bank (41.59 percent), and Prudential Bank (40.28 percent). Consequently, their CRR will increase to 20 percent.
The 13 banks with LDRs below 40 percent were Ecobank (37 percent), ABSA (36.60 percent), UMB (35.56 percent), FBN Bank (33.65 percent), GCB (32.48 percent), and Stanbic Bank (31.29 percent).
Others include Fidelity Bank (24.95 percent), First Atlantic Bank (23.67 percent), ACCESS (23.51 percent), and Zenith (20.00 percent). Standard Chartered (19.44 percent), GT Bank (17.52 percent), and OmniBSIC (14.84 percent) complete the roster of banks poised to witness their CRR rise to 25 percent upon the directive’s enforcement.
Apakan Securities, in its analysis of the announcement, noted that although the adjustment in the CRR was not expected, “it reflects a tighter stance by the bank to rein in liquidity and control inflation”.
“Additionally, the CRR adjustment aims to stir banks to boost lending to support growth instead of investing excess liquidity in GoG and BoG bills. Conclusively, this is expected to drain liquidity from the market, soften demand and slow the pace of decline in GoG yields,” Apakan stated.
Some analysts believe the safety provided by government securities is still too appealing for banks to resist, especially in a very high-risk environment.
The National Youth Organizer for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), George Opare Addo has underscored that genuine courage doesn’t involve loudly proclaiming one’s bravery.
Instead, he asserts that true courage lies in quietly working diligently towards success without the need for self-promotion.
He seems to imply that the NDC is tirelessly working behind the scenes to secure victory in the 2024 election, without boasting about their efforts.
“Courage is not the one who shouts the loudest. Courage is not the one who portrays himself I am courageous. But courage is getting the job done at every cost and making sure there are no complains but you get it done. We are getting the job done and I trust you also get yours done. Thank you very much and may God be with you all,” he said boldy in a video shared on “X” which ended with sounds of applauds]”
@georgeoaddo’s will to ensure victory 2024 is unquestionable.
The writer is emphasizing that true courage is not about boasting loudly or portraying oneself as courageous. Instead, it’s about quietly and diligently completing tasks regardless of the obstacles, without complaint. They encourage everyone to persevere and accomplish their tasks with dedication. The phrase “getting the job done” implies overcoming challenges and fulfilling responsibilities efficiently. The writer concludes by thanking the audience and expressing a wish for divine support. The sounds of applause indicate appreciation and agreement with the message.
Founder of the Kama Group of Companies, Dr Agyekum Addo, has opened up about the financial struggles he has encountered since the banking sector clean-up.
Speaking at a book launch event held at Academic City College in Accra on March 28, he disclosed that his retirement savings, amassed over three decades, were adversely impacted by the clean-up.
As a result, he found himself unable to provide support for endeavors he holds dear, including the book launch itself.
I am a pensioner, and all my money, I must confess, I know I am on air. The money that I saved to take care of my pension time has been taken over by the banking cleanup. So I don’t have my money to support such a wonderful book. And if I tell you how much that I saved for over 30years to take care of my position now, you will weep for me.”
“I have one of the best pharmaceutical manufacturing companies. WHO standard in Tema. But because my money has been locked up and they cannot give it to me, I’m having problems with my overheads. I’m telling you. Either GRA is on my neck or electricity company has come to put off your light…We are suffering o!”
His narrative highlights the wider repercussions of the banking sector clean-up on both individuals and businesses nationwide.
CEO of one of the biggest Pharmaceutical Companies in Ghana 🇬🇭 laments over his locked up pension funds, says he is struggling with his overheads… yet Bawumia has failed to speak on the locked up funds and hair cuts … People are suffering yet the economist can't be found pic.twitter.com/wj2qI5VZYJ
Ghanaian songstress Sista Afia has voiced her dismay at the organizers of the Telecel Ghana Music Awards (TGMA), labeling their treatment of her as unjust.
The musician expressed feeling disrespected by the scheme for several years, despite her consistent efforts and dedication to her craft.
Taking to Facebook, she questioned if she had wronged anyone to warrant such unfair treatment. Sista Afia recounted how her popular 2021 hit ‘Asuoden’ was overlooked, despite its significant impact on the music scene at the time.
She also expressed confusion over why some artists who failed to submit their work for consideration were nominated in categories, while others who submitted received no recognition.
She wrote: “Have I offended someone at the high table Ghana Music Awards? The fact that Asuoden was a big song in 2021 had Zero nominations which I still don’t get. I learned people don’t even file for nominations but get nominations. The downplay on my efforts ever since I started doing music in Ghana hasn’t been fair to my craft and yes, it hurts because I work so hard. I’ve been quiet for so long because I have respect for the scheme and I don’t want to step on anyone’s toes!”
The increasing trend of Ghanaians seeking better opportunities abroad has raised significant concerns.
These individuals often attribute their departure to factors such as unemployment, low income, and perceived failures in the government system.
Joining the chorus of voices expressing worry about the exodus of Ghanaian youth, media personality and brand influencer, Serwaa Amihere, voiced her concerns on March 31.
Her tweet, which garnered reactions from X users, urged Ghanaians, particularly those aged between twenty and thirty earning at least GH¢5,000, to carefully consider before deciding to leave the country.
“I think if you are in your 20s and 30s and earning, at least, GHC5,000 and above you shouldn’t rush to leave Ghana. It’s not all that rosy out there,” she tweeted.
Numerous users on X who engaged with the post pointed out the difficulty of finding a young person within the specified age range earning such a substantial income, given the prevailing economic circumstances in the country.
Some argued that, given the economic hardships, the stated amount is inadequate to sustain oneself and any dependents. Additionally, some individuals emphasized that the decision to leave Ghana is not solely motivated by financial gain but also by factors such as improved healthcare and overall quality of life in other countries.
Check out Serwaa Amihere’s post and reactions below:
Female singer and television presenter, Mzbel, has recounted a harrowing rape incident that occurred several years ago.
In a conversation with Barima Kaakyire Agyemang, the presenter endeavoring to set a Guinness World Record for the longest interview, she detailed the events of that traumatic day.
According to her recollection, she was in bed when she felt a hand on her back. Upon waking up, she discovered a man wearing a handkerchief as a disguise.
Mzbel revealed that the assailants not only robbed her but also subjected her to sexual assault, dissatisfied with their initial plunder.
She disclosed that the first assault took place in her bedroom, while the second occurred in her kitchen.
“I have been raped before. I was raped by armed robbers. It was actually two people who raped me. I was sleeping in my bed and I felt somebody hit my back so hard. I woke up and I saw a face with a handkerchief wrapped around the person’s face. They asked for money and I gave them the money. I told them where the money was and showed them a few things. The person asked me to lie down on the bed, and I did. It was at gunpoint. There were about seven to eight ladies in the house. After he was done, another person also dragged me to the kitchen; he asked me to lie down, and he also raped me”, she explained to the host.
The acclaimed artist mentioned that following the incident, she sought medical attention, including consultations with a therapist.
Additionally, she revealed that the perpetrators were apprehended, although she later learned that one or both of them passed away while incarcerated.
“I visited the hospital after that and had a therapist who was speaking to me. They [armed robbers] were arrested, and a few years later, I heard they died or somebody died.
“I didn’t curse them. What they did to me was enough for them to be cursed. In my heart, I was hurt, and I wished that something terrible would happen to them or that terrible things would happen to them,” she said.
Ghanaian media personality, MC Yaa Yeboah, criticized comedian Derrick Kobina Bonney, better known as DKB, describing his actions as childish after he announced his decision to stop fundraising for Funny Face.
DKB’s tweet on X, where he declared his withdrawal from raising funds for Funny Face, prompted MC Yaa Yeboah’s critique.
In his tweet, DKB expressed his intention to avoid potential backlash similar to what occurred with Akuapem Poloo in the past.
“I categorically withdraw myself from Funny Face fundraising for the victims. Some manager will come tomorrow and call me a thief like what happened with Akuapem Poloo. I have valuable things to do with my time,” DKB said in a video on the back of numerous backlash from a section of the public.
In a recent post by DKB on March 29, he revealed that Funny Face had contacted him seeking assistance in raising funds to support the medical expenses of the accident victims.
Additionally, DKB mentioned that Funny Face pledged to adopt the two children affected by the accident.
“Breaking News!!! Funny Face reached out to officially give out his Momo details to me for public support to help him treat the victims. To prove his remorse and repentance, Funny Face promises to adopt the 1-year-old and 5-year-old kids involved in the accident,” he tweeted.
Following this development, MC Yaa Yeboah voiced her disapproval of DKB’s actions on UTV’s United Showbiz. She deemed it inappropriate for DKB to consult Funny Face when it was advised by Funny Face’s manager to wait for the right moment before appealing to the public for assistance.
“No one asked DKB to reach out to the general public and solicit funds. DKB went to Funny Face’s manager, and his manager told him that he should wait awhile because it wasn’t the right time, so why would you go to Kasoa, where Funny Face is, to tell him you’ve asked for permission? Do you think Funny Face is in the right mind to say the right things?” she quizzed.
“Even if Funny Face gave you the clearance to go ahead, why didn’t you go back to the manager to let him know what Funny Face told you, but you went ahead to do it? You’ve been in this situation before, so what is stopping you from using the right channels to do the right thing?
“People are now criticizing you, and you are saying you are washing your hands off the issue? No one has asked you to solicit funds. DKB should stop doing that. He should stop making this about him. No one is attacking him. I’ll tell you to your face; stop being childish,” she added.
During the show hosted by MzGee, she conveyed that DKB should have followed the appropriate procedures to raise funds for Funny Face rather than handling the situation based on his own judgment.
Ghanaian media personality, MC Yaa Yeboah, criticized comedian Derrick Kobina Bonney, better known as DKB, describing his actions as childish after he announced his decision to stop fundraising for Funny Face.
DKB’s tweet on X, where he declared his withdrawal from raising funds for Funny Face, prompted MC Yaa Yeboah’s critique.
In his tweet, DKB expressed his intention to avoid potential backlash similar to what occurred with Akuapem Poloo in the past.
“I categorically withdraw myself from Funny Face fundraising for the victims. Some manager will come tomorrow and call me a thief like what happened with Akuapem Poloo. I have valuable things to do with my time,” DKB said in a video on the back of numerous backlash from a section of the public.
In a recent post by DKB on March 29, he revealed that Funny Face had contacted him seeking assistance in raising funds to support the medical expenses of the accident victims.
Additionally, DKB mentioned that Funny Face pledged to adopt the two children affected by the accident.
“Breaking News!!! Funny Face reached out to officially give out his Momo details to me for public support to help him treat the victims. To prove his remorse and repentance, Funny Face promises to adopt the 1-year-old and 5-year-old kids involved in the accident,” he tweeted.
Following this development, MC Yaa Yeboah voiced her disapproval of DKB’s actions on UTV’s United Showbiz. She deemed it inappropriate for DKB to consult Funny Face when it was advised by Funny Face’s manager to wait for the right moment before appealing to the public for assistance.
“No one asked DKB to reach out to the general public and solicit funds. DKB went to Funny Face’s manager, and his manager told him that he should wait awhile because it wasn’t the right time, so why would you go to Kasoa, where Funny Face is, to tell him you’ve asked for permission? Do you think Funny Face is in the right mind to say the right things?” she quizzed.
“Even if Funny Face gave you the clearance to go ahead, why didn’t you go back to the manager to let him know what Funny Face told you, but you went ahead to do it? You’ve been in this situation before, so what is stopping you from using the right channels to do the right thing?
“People are now criticizing you, and you are saying you are washing your hands off the issue? No one has asked you to solicit funds. DKB should stop doing that. He should stop making this about him. No one is attacking him. I’ll tell you to your face; stop being childish,” she added.
During the show hosted by MzGee, she conveyed that DKB should have followed the appropriate procedures to raise funds for Funny Face rather than handling the situation based on his own judgment.
Preparations are in full swing for MTN’s eagerly awaited Stands In Worship Concert, scheduled for March 31, 2024, at the prestigious Golden Bean Hotel in Kumasi, commencing at 5 pm.
Excitement is palpable as attendees eagerly anticipate the soul-stirring performances by renowned gospel artists such as Obaapa Christie, Kwaku Gyasi, ASP Kofi Sarpong, and Brother Sammy.
This event holds significant importance as it marks Kumasi’s inaugural gathering of this caliber, heralding a new era in entertainment and promising an unforgettable experience for all.
The concert’s timing, coinciding with Easter celebrations, adds an extra layer of excitement, blending spiritual and cultural observances and fostering unity and reflection among the audience.
At its core, the Stands In Worship Concert revolves around the theme of “Victory in the Blood: Celebrating Our Victory as a Nation,” resonating deeply with themes of faith, resilience, and national pride.
Attendees can look forward to an evening filled with uplifting music, heartfelt worship, and a reaffirmation of the nation’s collective spirit.
President of Beyond Kontrol, Samuel Adu, also known as Medikal, has made a public declaration about his split from his wife, Fella Makafui.
This revelation emerged following a plea for encouragement from one of his supporters, who encouraged fellow fans and music enthusiasts to stay updated on Medikal’s activities.
On the microblogging platform formerly known as Twitter, the supporter urged all Chelsea fans to back Medikal’s career while mentioning Fella Makafui in the post.
The rapper swiftly disavowed his marriage to Fella Makafui in his response. Medikal clarified that he is currently separated from Fella, and their relationship now revolves around co-parenting their daughter, Island Frimpong.
“Fella is no more my wife, she is my baby’s mother, we are co-parenting now and it’s all good,” Medikal tweeted on X on Saturday, March 30.
The pair tied the knot in 2020. Speculations about their separation began circulating in 2023, but neither had openly acknowledged them.
Observations indicate that both individuals have unfollowed each other on Instagram. Additionally, Fella Makafui has modified her Instagram username, removing “Mrs. Frimpong.”
A recent post on the microblogging platform X, dated Saturday, March 30, indicates that Fella Makafui has blocked Medikal. Medikal has stated his intention to address all matters concerning his marriage on his Snapchat story at 6 pm Greenwich Mean Time on Sunday.
However, some skeptics have voiced doubts, suggesting that this might be a tactic to spark discussions ahead of Medikal’s concert at Indigo O2.
Actor and politician, John Dumelo, showcased his dedication to aiding University of Ghana students in their academic pursuits by hosting a free tutorial session on Thursday, March 28, 2024.
Through a post on social media, he emphasized the importance of the tutorial, focusing on Academic Writing and Critical Thinking, to assist students in gearing up for their forthcoming semester exams.
Mr. Dumelo urged students to prioritize their studies and shared images from the fruitful session across his online platforms.
Dumelo’s caption read: “Yesterday, in preparation for their exams next week, we conducted tutorials on Academic Writing and Critical Thinking for select University of Ghana first-year students.”
“We wish them all the best in their exams. #idey4u #AyawasoWest”
South Africa’s ex-President Jacob Zuma was involved in a car accident but fortunately escaped unharmed.
According to police reports, a drunk driver collided with his “official armoured state vehicle” on Thursday evening.
However, a prominent member of his uMkhonto we Sizwe (MK) party alleged that the crash was a deliberate targeting of Zuma.
Currently suspended by the ruling African National Congress (ANC), Zuma is actively campaigning for the MK ahead of the upcoming general election in May.
The incident occurred while Mr. Zuma was traveling with his official protection team on a road in his native province of KwaZulu-Natal around 18:40 local time (16:40 GMT) on Thursday.
“No-one was injured, including members of the Presidential Protection Services. The former president was evacuated and taken to his residence,” a brief police statement said.
“No injuries were reported, including among members of the Presidential Protection Services. The former president was safely evacuated and transported to his residence,” stated a concise police release.
Authorities have apprehended a 51-year-old individual for charges related to “drunken driving, as well as reckless and negligent driving.”
Authorities report that in South Africa, a devastating incident has claimed the lives of forty-five individuals as a bus they were traveling in careened approximately 50 meters (165 feet) off a bridge into a ravine.
Among the tragic outcome, there is a glimmer of hope as an eight-year-old girl emerged as the sole survivor. Despite sustaining severe injuries, she is now in stable condition.
The bus’s descent was catastrophic, as it smashed through a barrier upon impact with the ground in the northeastern province of Limpopo, igniting into flames.
While thirty-four body bags have been retrieved from the crash site, only nine of the deceased can be positively identified, according to authorities.
The passengers aboard the ill-fated journey were pilgrims en route from Botswana’s capital, Gaborone, to attend an Easter service in the town of Moria.
The catastrophic turn of events unfolded when the vehicle lost control and veered off a bridge along the Mmamatlakala mountain pass between Mokopane and Marken, approximately 300 kilometers (190 miles) north of Johannesburg, as reported by South African public broadcaster SABC.
Colin Msibi, spokesperson for the Department of Transport, conveyed to the BBC’s Newsday program that the surviving eight-year-old girl is presently hospitalized and reportedly in stable condition.
“What we suspect is that when the bus hit the barrier of the bridge, the child was ejected out of the bus, and that is how the child was able to survive,” Mr Msibi said.
Rescue efforts persisted well into Thursday night and resumed the following morning.
According to Limpopo health official Phophi Ramathuba, the intensity of the fire may have caused body parts from different victims to merge, leading to the identification of only nine bodies thus far.
Transport Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga, who visited the site of the accident, offered her sincere condolences to the families impacted by the devastating bus crash.
Assuring support, she stated that the South African government would facilitate the repatriation of the deceased and initiate a comprehensive investigation into the crash’s cause.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time,” she added. “We continue to urge responsible driving at all times with heightened alertness as more people are on our roads this Easter weekend.”
Ms. Chikunga informed eNCA that the road from which the bus plummeted is characterized by “winding with sharp bends, hairpin bends, a road that I’d never advise any person who is driving a heavy vehicle such as a bus, such as a truck, to use.”
In response to the tragic incident, Botswana’s President Mokgweetsi Masisi conveyed his “deepest condolences” to the relatives of the pilgrims and the church they were affiliated with, describing the crash as “heartbreaking,” as stated in a release from his party.
The office of South African President Cyril Ramaphosa also issued a statement on Thursday evening, expressing sympathy for Botswana and the families of the victims.
In an Easter message released prior to the accident, Mr. Ramaphosa had encouraged citizens to “do our best to make this a safe Easter.”
It should “not be a time where we sit back and wait to see statistics on tragedy or injuries on our roads,” he added.
Highlife artist Bisa Kdei recently took a stand against Ghanaian promoters, criticizing their tendency to underestimate the potential of Ghanaian music on the global stage.
During an interview on Accra FM on March 28, 2024, Bisa Kdei voiced his frustration with promoters who disregard the possibility of Ghanaian artists selling out international venues like the O2 Arena without even giving it a shot.
“Some promoters are to blame; they talk down on Ghanaian music a lot, and they say things like, ‘a Ghanaian can’t sell out an international stage like the O2 Arena,’. Have we even tried? Even if a Ghanaian organises a show and only 2 people come, at least they tried.
“But we don’t even try, yet we downplay Ghanaian music. If people are listening, and they hear a promoter saying that a Ghanaian can’t sell out international arenas, they won’t even bother to come to the event,” he said.
Bisa Kdei, real name Ronald Kweku Dei Appiah, called for positivity among Ghanaians and said “Some people say Ghanaian songs are not good enough, that is very stupid. Nobody should say that. There is a reason why many people from other countries come to take inspiration from Ghana. There is power here. So let’s say positive things; let’s bring blessings to our industry,” he said.
He called upon promoters to have faith in Ghanaian music, stressing that attempting and falling short is preferable to not attempting at all.
Bisa Kdei pointed out the detrimental effects of promoters’ pessimism, observing that it dissuades both artists and audiences from supporting Ghanaian music events.
The artist, known offstage as Ronald Kweku Dei Appiah, advocated for a shift towards optimism within the Ghanaian music industry.
He urged individuals to refrain from disparaging Ghanaian songs, highlighting their cultural significance and the inspiration they offer to artists worldwide.
Bisa Kdei underscored the importance of unified support and encouragement to propel Ghanaian music to international recognition.
CEO of the entity behind the yearly Ghana Music Awards, Charterhouse Productions, Madam Theresa Ayoade, has unveiled intentions to establish a Hall of Fame Museum commemorating the Organization’s 25th anniversary.
The journey towards the revamped Telecel Ghana Music Awards (TGMA) commenced yesterday with the unveiling of nominees in anticipation of the awards ceremony scheduled for June 1, 2024.
Addressing attendees at the launch of the 25th-anniversary celebration, Madam Ayoade outlined the Organization’s plans for the festivities, emphasizing a particular emphasis on the Ghana Music Hall of Fame initiative.
“This year being our anniversary year is special, and one initiative we consider special is the Ghana Music Hall of Fame project.
“The Ghana Music Hall of Fame will be a museum to celebrate our musical history, with special emphasis on the Ghana Music Awards journey over the past 25 years.
“It is a major project, and we are currently seeking funds to enable us to execute it before the final event on June 1, 2024.
“We are hopeful for it to run like one month before the man event day to give people an experience of Ghanaian music and to also form part of Ghana’s tourism offerings,” she said.
The 25th Telecel Ghana Music Awards (TGMA) nominations were unveiled yesterday, with the celebrated artist Stonebwoy leading the pack with an impressive eleven nominations.
Among Stonebwoy’s nominations, the most prestigious ones include Artiste of the Year, Songwriter of the Year, Best Reggae/Dancehall Artiste, Record of the Year for “Manodzi,” and Album/EP of the Year for “5th Dimension.” Additionally, he secured nominations for Most Popular Song (“Into the Future”), International Collaboration of the Year (“Manodzi” featuring Angelique Kidjo), Best Reggae Song (“Non-Stop”), Best Music Video (“Manodzi”), Best Afropop Song (“Into the Future”), and Best Highlife Song (“Manodzi”).
Renowned rapper Sarkodie also clinched his ninth nomination for Artiste of the Year, a title he’s claimed twice before in 2010 and 2012, aiming to set a record with a third win. His nominations also include International Collaboration of the Year (“Till We Die” featuring Ruger), Best Rap Performance (“Otan”), and Most Popular Song (“Otan”).
King Promise, after an exceptional 2023, earned five nominations, including Artiste of the Year, Most Popular Song, Best Afrobeat/Afropop Artiste, Best Afropop Song, and International Collaboration of the Year.
The race for the Artiste of the Year title appears intense, with Stonebwoy, Sarkodie, King Promise, Kuami Eugene, Black Sherif, Nacee, and Kuami Eugene vying for the honor.
Another closely watched category is New Artiste of the Year, featuring talents like King Paluta, Maya Blu, DSL, Banzy Banero, Olivetheboy, and Oseikrom Sikanii. King Paluta stands out as a strong contender in this category, particularly given the impact of emerging artists in 2023.
In the gospel genre, notable names like Nacee, Diana Hamilton, Joyce Blessing, Mabel Okyere, Perez Musik, Piesie Esther, Joe Mettle, and Scott Evans are competing for Best Gospel Artiste of the Year.
The nomination announcement and 25th-anniversary launch were accompanied by captivating musical performances from Nat Brew, Piesie Esther, Celestine Donkor, Olivetheboy, Banzy Banero, Boasiako, and Fra.
The much-anticipated TGMA awards ceremony is scheduled for Saturday, June 1, 2024, at the Grand Arena of the Accra International Conference Centre.
Ghanaian actor Chris Attoh has voiced concerns regarding Ghana’s film industry, highlighting its struggle to achieve the same level of success as Nigeria and South Africa on prominent streaming platforms like Netflix.
He attributes this disparity to a lack of high-quality content.
Attoh emphasizes that Ghana’s film sector lags behind due to its failure to prioritize the production of compelling content that can capture both local and global audiences’ attention.
Speaking in a recent interview with Graphic Showbiz, the Tinsel Star, who is preparing to unveil his latest movie, “Nine,” stresses the critical need for premium content, noting the stringent standards set by streaming platforms. He underscores the consistent failure of industry stakeholders to meet these standards and deliver content of such caliber.
“It’s not merely about having the right content; it’s about the quality of that content. Ghana struggles to generate enough high-quality content to meet the standards of these platforms. Audiences worldwide are discerning, and subpar productions stand out,” Attoh remarked.
He expressed disappointment over the prevalence of South African and Nigerian content on Netflix, highlighting the urgency for Ghana to embrace stringent production standards.
This, he believes, is crucial for Ghanaian offerings like “Nine” to compete effectively with those from Nigeria and South Africa, ultimately elevating their visibility on a global scale.
Attoh encouraged stakeholders in Ghana’s film industry to reassess their approaches to content creation, stressing the significance of aligning with the standards and preferences set by streaming platforms. By doing so, he believes Ghana can strengthen its position in the global entertainment landscape.
“Change is inevitable, and we cannot afford to be left behind. Without a clear direction, we risk stagnation. We must aim for excellence in our endeavors. This concerted effort towards quality production is vital for industry growth,” Attoh added.
In a live event at the late John Kumah’s one-week observation, an Oyerepa TV reporter found himself in a tense situation when he was approached by police personnel.
The officers questioned his accreditation to cover the event, which led to a standoff as the reporter asserted his right to report.
Despite the pressure, the reporter remained steadfast, refusing to back down and continuing his coverage without official accreditation, highlighting the challenges faced by journalists in their pursuit of news.
Watch the full video below:
Oyerepa TV Reporter snubs Police personnel who approached him during live event at the late John Kumah's one-week observation over his lack of accreditation to cover the event. pic.twitter.com/0KFbPO1vcj
National Chairman of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, has stated that he now carries his own water to drink wherever he goes.
His comment comes on the back of poisoning claims that surfaced after the sad demise of Deputy Finance Minister Dr John Kumah.
Asiedu Nketia says he has become more careful with the food and water he eats and drinks when he is outside his home.
During an interview on Asempa FM, the NDC chairman declined the water they offered and instead chose to drink his own water.
“That’s why I have my own water now. Normally, I’d drink the water offered, but today I brought my own. Everyone’s carrying their own bottle now… [laughs]. I saw a video of Nana B turning down the water offered to him [laughter],” Asiedu Nketia indicated with laughter.
On March 7, the death of Deputy Finance Minister Dr John Kumah was announced after a short illness.
Onua TV presenter Captain Smart, made claims that his death was as a result of food poisoning.
However, his wife came out to refute the poisoning claims indicating that a condition called Myeloma was rather the cause of his husband’s death.
Nii Kpappo Addo, Legal representative for Member of Parliament Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor of South Dayi, denied allegations that he instructed his office staff to reject documents from the Supreme Court regarding President Akufo-Addo’s new ministerial nominees.
During Wednesday’s court proceedings, it emerged that certain court documents, including the notice of hearing and the Attorney General’s opposition to a temporary court order, were not received by the attorney representing the South Dayi MP.
Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo, presiding over the bench, mentioned that Nii Kpappo Addo, the attorney for the plaintiff, purportedly instructed a staff member to refuse any documents from the Supreme Court.
However, in an interview with Umaru Sanda Amadu on Eyewitness News on Citi FM, Mr. Addo refuted the bailiff’s claim, stating he did not issue such directives.
He mentioned the availability of audio and video evidence to support his assertion.
“We didn’t flee from our own case. We are supposed to be served with a hearing notice on the date that has been called by the court. So, I received a call from the bailiff of the court that he had a process for me. Unfortunately, on Tuesday, I wasn’t in Accra. He called me at exactly 10:50 am. So, I informed him that I wasn’t around, but I was going to give him the number of the plaintiff so that he could serve the plaintiff with the hearing notice or whatever document that he had. So, I sent him the number at 10:57. He acknowledged receipt.”
The court bailiff didn't know we had CCTV in our office. He lied to the court – Nii Kpakpo Samoa Addo, Lawyer for Nelson Dafeamekpor#GhanaTonightpic.twitter.com/ZzwRpZ7UQk
A group of young boys set out on a risky mission to steal coconuts from a man’s property under the cover of darkness.
The owner’s angry voice interrupted their whispers as they scaled the fence.
He swiftly got hold of the youngest member of the group, a ten-year-old boy, left behind by his cunning friends.
Terrified and alone, the boy faced the consequences while his friends escaped. He was beaten with a cane several times. One of the whips landed on his head.
Second Deputy National Organizer for the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), Elikem Kwame Kotoko, has slammed formal Deputy General-Secretary of the party, Koku Anyidoho for ‘attacking’ flagbearer John Dramani Mahama and his running mate Jane Mensah.
Responding to this, Mr Kotoko said the attack is unwarranted and childish of Anyidoho.
He argued that the two politicians have the right to travel anytime and wherever they want, especially when they are not in charge of the running of the country.
“So shameful and petty of you, are they running the country. Now your sickness is becoming stupidity. If you care to know however they are both in the country now. Such an embarrassment, filled with hatred. No wonder, we are still waiting for the autopsy of your child who passed,” he said on X.
So shameful and petty of you, are they running the country. Now your sickness is becoming stupidity. If you care to know however they are both in the country now. Such an embarrassment, filled with hatred. No wonder, we are still waiting for the autopsy of your child who passed
In a post on X, Mr Anyidoho, who is now a heavy critic of the NDC, noted that Mahama and Naana Jane are no longer in the country due to the recent comments made by the Ahwoi family.
At an event in Accra for Prof. Opoku-Agyemang, Mr. Kwesi Ahwoi suggested that she should be prepared for any scenario that could lead to her presidency as Mahama became a President owing to the death of former President Atta Mills.
In a statement on Sunday, March 24, Kwesi Ahwoi clarified that he had no intention of wishing harm upon the former President. He acknowledged his mistake and expressed regret over the misunderstanding caused by his comments.
Lady Gaga, in a chat with YouTuber NikkieTutorials on Tuesday, assured her devoted fans, affectionately known as Little Monsters, that she is diligently working to complete her highly anticipated seventh studio album.
“I will say that I am feeling deeply inspired right now and I’m so excited for everything that I have to show all the fans,” Gaga said in a clip from the interview posted to social media. “I’m deeply grateful for everybody’s excitement in my creativity.”
With details about the sound of her upcoming music remaining scarce, the Oscar and Grammy winner revealed on her Instagram page in February that her new album wouldn’t be a rock album.
In recent months, she has teased fans with glimpses into her creative process, sharing photos of herself in the recording studio, playing the piano, and even divulging that she’s “writing lyrics in bed.”
It’s been four years since Gaga’s last studio album, “Chromatica,” a dance-centric record released in 2020.
In the interim – and to give credit where it’s due – the multi-talented star has kept herself occupied.
Gaga has been diligently filming the highly anticipated “Joker” sequel titled “Joker: Folie à Deux,” which concluded production in April last year and is set for release in October.
In this musical sequel, Gaga takes on the role of Harley Quinn alongside Joaquin Phoenix, reprising his iconic portrayal of the Joker. Phoenix’s portrayal earned him a Best Actor Oscar for his portrayal of the complex DC villain in 2020.
In addition to her responsibilities with her beauty label Haus Labs, Gaga will also be returning to Las Vegas for her acclaimed “Jazz & Piano” residency at Park MGM’s Dolby Live. The residency will run for eight days in June and July, delighting fans with her captivating performances.
Freda, the wife of renowned Ghanaian actor Big Akwes, has reaffirmed her dedication to their marriage amidst swirling divorce rumors.
In a candid disclosure, Freda addressed the speculation surrounding her relationship with Big Akwes, emphasizing their enduring bond despite external rumors.
Dismissing the rumors as unfounded fabrications circulated on social media, Freda clarified that their marriage is not on the verge of dissolution, contrary to sensationalized reports.
During a live session on TikTok, Freda openly expressed her commitment to stand by her husband, regardless of any efforts by unnamed individuals to sow discord.
“I want those who have been negatively influencing my husband to understand that I am firmly by his side. Despite the false rumours swirling around us, our marriage is stronger than ever,” Freda asserted.
Her steadfast declaration stands as a strong rebuttal to recent speculations hinting at unrest in their relationship. Freda’s unwavering dedication highlights her resolve to withstand any challenges and uphold the sanctity of her marriage with Big Akwes.
Get ready! Beyoncé’s highly anticipated new album is on its way.
The singer unveiled the tracklist for “Act 2: Cowboy Carter” on Instagram on Wednesday.
Alongside the already released singles “Texas Hold ‘Em” and “16 Carriages,” fans can expect several other tracks, including the speculated cover of Dolly Parton’s “Jolene,” as well as “Smoke Hour Willie Nelson,” “Dolly P,” and “The Linda Martell Show.”
Linda Martell, celebrated as the first commercially successful Black female country music artist, is the focus of the documentary “Bad Case of the Country Blues,” chronicling her mainstream country music career from 1969 to 1975.
Whether Martell, now 82, makes an appearance on Beyoncé’s new project remains uncertain.
Similarly, members of Beyoncé’s devoted fanbase, known as the Beyhive, are eagerly awaiting to see if either Dolly Parton or fellow Texas native Willie Nelson will feature on the album.
In a recent interview with Knox News, Parton was asked about whether Beyoncé had covered her hit “Jolene.”
“Well, I think she has! I think she’s recorded ‘Jolene’ and I think it’s probably gonna be on her country album, which I’m very excited about that,” Parton said.
The queen of country music has great admiration for Queen Bey.
“I love her!” Parton said about Beyoncé. “She’s a beautiful girl and a great singer.”
“Act II: Cowboy Carter” is set to arrive March 29.
Ghanaian rap sensation Medikal is poised to make music history with his highly anticipated O2 concert scheduled for May 3, 2024.
He recently announced the addition of fellow hitmaker Shatta Wale to the lineup of performers for the event.
In a recent statement, Medikal expressed his excitement for the upcoming concert, emphasizing his determination to etch his name in the annals of music history with this landmark event.
The inclusion of Shatta Wale, known for his collaborative hits with Medikal, further heightens anticipation for the concert.
As fans eagerly await further updates, Medikal has hinted at the possibility of unveiling more top-tier artists in the days to come.
With a repertoire of chart-topping tracks and a dedicated fanbase, the rapper is poised to deliver an unforgettable experience for attendees.
Signed to Beyond Kontrol, Medikal is eager to showcase his talent to fans in the United Kingdom.
Professional music producer and sound engineer Manasseh T. Nartey, widely known as Forqzy Beatz, has halted his bid to break the Guinness World Record for the Longest Recording Marathon with multiple artists.
Commencing on March 21, 2024, at Tema Community 1, Forqzy Beatz embarked on the ‘Rec-A-Thon’ with the goal of recording over 200 artists within 100 hours.
Despite falling short of the 100-hour target, Forqzy Beatz persevered for 75 hours before deciding to pause due to exhaustion.
The attempt faced initial hurdles, including disruptions caused by rain. However, after swift reorganization, the endeavor resumed on the evening of March 22, 2024.
Forqzy Beatz’s determination, coupled with support from his team and artists like Keche Global, resulted in recording 108 artists, surpassing the previous record of 40 hours and 19 minutes held by Nigerian actor and entrepreneur Hawwal Ogungbadero.
Regrettably, the attempt was called off on March 26 after 75 hours, attributed to exhaustion by Forqzy Beatz’s team.
“The physical and mental toll of the marathon had taken its toll, leading to the unanimous agreement to conclude the attempt at the 75th-hour mark,”
Kumawood actor Kwaku Manuhas criticized Funny Face for publicly sharing details of his private conversation with Vanessa, the mother of his children, during her visit to Accra.
In a recent series of social media outbursts, Funny Face claimed that Vanessa had expressed a desire to stay overnight at his house as part of her efforts to reconcile with him.
This revelation comes after Funny Face’s earlier public accusations against Vanessa for allegedly preventing him from seeing their children in the aftermath of his accident.
Amidst his online tirades, Funny Face accused Vanessa of attempting to re-enter his life through deceptive means.
“You came begging me, asking me to co-parent with you, telling me that you love me, and so on. So, is this it? You recently came to Accra and asked to come to my house to sleep over. You said you wanted to come and I insisted that I wasn’t around, I said I was at Winneba. Do you remember?
“Should I have allowed you into my home once again, so you catch me in the middle of the night and sleep with me? So you would have brought up your favourite doggy styles again? No way!” he stated in an Instagram video.
However, Kwaku Manu believes that it was inappropriate to disclose this aspect of their conversation to the public.
In a video on his YouTube channel, he criticized Funny Face’s actions, labeling them as immature.
“Coming to social media to announce that Vanessa wanted you back, and wanted to sleep over at your house was unnecessary. Giving too many details about the doggy was also unnecessary. If Vanessa was in Accra and wanted someone to sleep with and called you, how is that our business? You are the only person who knows why you don’t ever want to have anything sexually to do with her, it’s not our business, so don’t tell us.”
Kwaku Manu’s comments come in the wake of Funny Face’s tragic accident, where his vehicle rammed into five people, including a mother and two kids.
The comedian has since been remanded for two weeks, following his appearance at the Ofaakor Circuit court.
Background
On Sunday, March 24, a vehicle belonging to Funny Face was involved in a near-fatal accident at Kasoa, Kakraba junction in the Central Region, nearly claiming the lives of five individuals, including a mother and two children.
According to a comprehensive report by UTV’s Central Regional correspondent, as observed by GhanaWeb, eyewitnesses cited drunk driving and excessive speeding as contributing factors to the tragic incident.
Funny Face’s recent fight with Vanessa
Just days before his accident on the Kasoa highway on March 24, 2024, Funny Face was seen venting his frustration online about the mother of his three daughters regarding custody matters.
Through a series of Instagram posts, he accused his ex-partner of taking advantage of his improving mental state to reconnect with him. According to him, Vanessa, who had kept their children away from him for the past four years, began allowing him access to them through video calls.
However, in a sudden twist, Funny Face claimed that Vanessa had revoked these privileges and adopted a distant attitude towards him once again.
Perplexed by Vanessa’s abrupt change, Funny Face expressed his disappointment at having his hopes raised and subsequently dashed regarding his relationship with his children.
General overseer of Alabaster International Ministries, Prophet Kofi Oduro, has shared his heartfelt prayers for the complete healing of Kuami Eugene.
In his view, Kuami Eugene holds a special place in God’s eyes, and he is not merely a secular artist as commonly perceived.
Prophet Oduro emphasized that the singers in his congregation pale in comparison to the anointing and talent possessed by the ‘Rockstar’.
“God is not interested in the death of a sinner. If you’re looking for one person who has been fervently praying for Kuami Eugene’s speedy recovery, then it’s me. I am praying for Kuami Eugene because his soul is very important to God.
“Some people would not like or understand this, because they think that Kuami Eugene isn’t really involved in Christian stuff. So what? He is the reason God called me.
“If Kuami Eugene stands here to sing right now, he will sing better than all our singers. He is a great worshipper,” he stated while addressing his congregation.
Meanwhile, Kuami Eugene has updated his fans and followers on social media, reassuring them of his steady recovery after a recent road accident.
Photos posted online depict Eugene resting on a hospital bed at the University of Ghana Medical Center (UGMC), where he is undergoing treatment. Despite the circumstances, he appeared in good spirits, surrounded by supportive loved ones and hospital staff.
In one of the images, Eugene is pictured with a recording kit, hinting at his determination to continue working on new music projects even while recuperating.
British rapper and singer Stefflon Don has recently shared her struggles following her split from Burna Boy.
Expressing the challenge of moving on, Stefflon Don revealed that no other man has treated her as Burna Boy did during their relationship.
The breakup between Burna Boy and Stefflon Don was announced in 2021 after a two-year romance.
During their separation, Stefflon Don disclosed how Burna Boy’s demeanor changed due to fame and wealth, while she remained committed to him.
She also referred to Burna Boy as a ‘mummy’s boy.’
Despite the hardships of their breakup, Stefflon Don fondly reminisced about some of her intimate moments with Burna Boy, praising his sexual prowess.
She said: “Many still don’t understand why my break up with Burna Boy hurt me so much. I’m rich, pretty, sexy and every man wants these curves you know what I mean? But no man has ever been able to handle me the way Burna Boy did when we were dating. He always prioritized me in bed and made sure I came at least twice before he came once.
She continued, “He’s the reason I respect Nigerian men. They practice what they preach. No man I’ve dated all my life has ever cared for my sexual life the way Burna did. A couple of things didn’t work out but I must give him that.”
Wife of Ghanaian rapper Ko-Jo Cue, has revealed the unconventional way she met her husband—through Twitter.
She recounted how the rapper shared his Blackberry PIN on the platform, prompting her to add him to her friend list by entering the PIN.
Initially, she confessed that her motive for adding the rapper was to boost her social media presence rather than genuine interest in getting to know him.
However, as their conversations progressed, they developed a strong friendship that eventually blossomed into love, culminating in their marriage.
Prof. Priscilla Kolibea Mante, a self-professed Hip-hop enthusiast, emphasized that her connection with her husband grew stronger because of his enjoyable company and shared passion for music.
Fella Makafui seems to be thriving after her alleged separation from husband Medikal, with her career taking off to new heights.
Following their decision to unfollow each other on social media, Fella has been securing lucrative deals abroad, enjoying luxurious first-class travels.
In a recent Instagram video, Fella, on yet another business trip, flaunts her stunning figure as she heads towards a waiting car.
This development follows Medikal’s candid tweets from last year, where he expressed the challenges he faced in making their marriage work. With statements like “Marriage is not for creatives, maybe not for me. I tried,” Medikal hinted at the possibility of a split, conveying a sense of frustration.
While the exact reasons for their marital struggles remain undisclosed, Medikal’s tweets suggest he’s exhausted his efforts in salvaging the relationship.
Fans and followers have expressed disappointment and concern over the potential end of their once-envied union.
As Fella continues to thrive post-separation, it seems their marriage may be irreparable. Watch Fella’s video below for a glimpse into her current ventures.
In what marks his first public appearance since the passing of his partner, the late Dr. Grace Boadu, Pastor Kingsley Gyamfi was spotted attending the one-week observation of the late finance minister, John Kumah.
Residing in Ejisu, Pastor Kingsley took the opportunity to offer condolences to the family of his late MP.
Upon arrival in his luxurious Ford Fiso vehicle, Pastor Kingsley was greeted with cheers and accolades from the crowd gathered at the funeral grounds.
He proceeded to the stage where dignitaries were seated and greeted them individually.
In a circulating video, he was seen exchanging pleasantries with notable figures such as Chief of Staff Nana Frema Opare, President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia, and others.
However, some social media users have questioned his connection with these high-profile individuals, while others have criticized the perceived ease of access to the president.
Meanwhile, the late Deputy Finance Minister and Member of Parliament for Ejisu in the Ashanti Region, Dr. John Ampontuah Kumah, will be laid to rest on Saturday, May 18, with final funeral rites scheduled for Sunday, May 19.
At 45 years old, the lawmaker passed away in March after a brief illness, leaving behind a wife and six children.
Pastor Kingsley Boadu ‘missing’ at Dr. Grace Boadu’s funeral
It can be recalled that Pastor Kingsley lamented how Dr. Grace Boadu’s family prevented him from attending the funeral of his late partner.
In that regard, Grace Boadu’s ex-husband was made to play the role of the deceased’s partner at the burial ceremony.
Prior to the main funeral ceremony, Pastor Kingsley and his entourage were sent back home when they made an appearance at Grace Boadu’s one-week observation.
In an earlier interview with Kessben FM, he said Grace Boadu’s mother instructed that he shouldn’t be allowed into any of the funeral gatherings.
He also disclosed how his life had been threatened several times during his relationship with the late herbal doctor.
Emeka Rollas, the President of the Actors Guild of Nigeria, has provided an update on the health condition of veteran actor Zack Orji following a false report of his death.
Orji was admitted to the Intensive Care Unit of the National Hospital in Abuja on New Year’s Eve.
During an interview on Afia TV on YouTube, Rollas disclosed that the veteran actor underwent two brain surgeries after collapsing and has shown significant improvement.
“Zack is currently not in a critical condition; if not for privacy concerns, I would have connected him on the phone right now, and you would hear from him. He has successfully undergone two brain surgeries, is in good health, and is able to communicate. Spreading rumors of Zack’s passing is utterly inhumane,” stated the AGN President.
Rollas mentioned that arrangements are being made to send Zack Orji abroad for post-surgery evaluation.
He criticized those who spread false rumors about the actor, emphasizing the distress it caused his family, especially his wife.
“Because of the internet age, people just want to grow their page and they can spill nonsense, that was why somebody woke up yesterday morning and said Zack has passed on and I quickly reacted,” Mr Rollas said.
Zack Orji was admitted to the Intensive Care Unit of the National Hospital in Abuja after collapsing in his home’s restroom.
Several days later, reports surfaced indicating a notable improvement in his condition. However, there have been no further public updates on his health since then.
On Monday, rumors of his alleged death began circulating on social media but were promptly refuted by the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN).
These developments come shortly after the passing of veteran Nollywood actor Amaechi Muonagor.
Muonagor, a talented actor, succumbed to stroke and kidney-related ailments on Sunday, March 24, at the age of 62.
Sources close to him revealed that he was undergoing weekly dialysis and physiotherapy to address the paralysis resulting from a stroke.
Before his passing, veteran actor John Okafor, fondly known as Mr Ibu, also passed away on March 2nd.
After enduring months of treatment, including multiple surgeries that resulted in the amputation of his leg, he eventually lost his battle with illness.
Wanlov the Kubolor, a musician and advocate for gay rights, attributes the surge in hostility towards LGBT+ individuals in Ghana to colonialism, religion, and poverty.
During a recent interview with Graphic Online TV, Wanlov asserted that before the era of colonialism, LGBT+ individuals lived harmoniously within societies.
He elaborated that the escalation of animosity towards the LGBT+ community in Ghana coincided with a lack of access to fundamental resources and societal necessities among citizens.
According to Wanlov, this deprivation, combined with religious doctrines, fostered an environment conducive to homophobia.
“When I look at the fact that there were no stringent laws, harsh punishments, or anything out there, that is the pre-colonial era, against homosexuality or queer life, I feel like people just coexisted.
“What has happened now to us as Ghanaians is that we have been taken to this level of poverty right now. And each of us feels very neglected by the state.
“Each of us feels very neglected by the places we work. We feel like everybody is trying to take advantage, underpay us, and so on. So the average Ghanaian is not getting all the rights guaranteed by the constitution. We don’t live with the kind of dignity we are supposed to.
“Then this average Ghanaian is being taught by Christianity, by Islam, and by colonial traditional religion that homosexuality is a sin.
“So when the queer community that is extra oppressed because of this homophobia steps up to say, ‘Okay, can you at least treat us like the average Ghanaian?’ The homophobic community of Ghana is like, ‘How dare you? You are a sinner. You are less of a person than me because I am a better person. How dare you ask for rights when this state I live in doesn’t guarantee me or doesn’t give me the rights that I deserve, even if I am being a good person.’ So I feel that that indignation is at play,” he said.
Wanlov the Kubolor’s remarks contribute to the ongoing discourse concerning the Anti-LGBT+ Bill and its implications for human rights in Ghana.
About the bill
According to the Anti-LGBT+ Bill, individuals engaged in LGBT+ activities could face imprisonment ranging from six months to three years, while those promoting or sponsoring such activities could be sentenced to three to five years in jail.
President Akufo-Addo has postponed his determination on signing the Bill into law, citing a constitutional challenge in the Supreme Court.
However, even if he opts against it, Members of Parliament hold the authority to override the president’s decision with a two-thirds majority vote, thereby making the Bill’s provisions legally binding.
At the 25th Ghana Music Awards (GMAs), eminent artists such as Black Sherif, King Promise, Kuami Eugene, Nacee, Sarkodie, and Stonebwoy are poised to vie for the prestigious Artiste of the Year accolade.
Meanwhile, Banky Banero, DSL, King Paluta, Maya Blu, Olivetheboy, and Oseikrom Sikani will compete for the coveted New Artiste of the Year title.
In the category of Best Rap Performance, the field is packed with stiff competition, featuring tracks like Amerado’s ‘The Hardest’, Eno Barony’s ‘Warning’, Fimfim’s ‘Boasiako’, Lyrical Joe’s ‘5th August 7’, Medikal’s ‘We Made It’, Sarkodie’s ‘Otan’, and Strongman’s ‘Dear God’.
These nominees, alongside others in various categories, were revealed on March 28, 2024, at the Grand Arena (Accra International Conference Centre) during the event’s launch.
Notably, Telecel has secured the esteemed title sponsorship for the Ghana Music Awards, marking a notable evolution in the event’s branding.
During the unveiling of this year’s GMAs, it was officially announced that the event would now be recognized as the Telecel Ghana Music Awards (TGMAs), succeeding its former identity as the Vodafone Ghana Music Awards (VGMAs).
Organized by Charterhouse Productions, the Ghana Music Awards remains the premier accolade in the Ghanaian music scene, commemorating its 25th anniversary this year.
Kelvynboy has emphasized that the success of a song is unpredictable during its creation process.
According to the singer-songwriter, determining whether a song will become a hit is more about feeling and imagination rather than certainty. He explained that envisioning someone singing the lyrics and picturing the song’s potential impact are key factors in the creative process.
Kelvynboy emphasized that ultimately, the success of a song is in the hands of a higher power and not solely reliant on human effort. He stressed that success is predetermined and not solely determined by one’s talent, willpower, or expertise.
However, he acknowledged that talent and the grace of God play crucial roles in an artist’s journey. Kelvynboy admitted that not all of his songs have achieved the success he envisioned initially.
Despite facing opposition and criticism for his unique sound, Kelvynboy expressed gratitude for carving his own path in the music industry. He highlighted songs like “Vero,” “Mea,” and “Yawa No Dey” as examples of instant hits, mainly due to the issues they addressed.
Kelvynboy noted that his songs often take time to resonate with his audience due to their distinctive nature. He cited the example of “Pilolo,” which took five months to gain widespread popularity.
Additionally, Kelvynboy revealed his involvement in the production process of his songs, as he has a clear vision of the sound he wants to achieve.
The latest release from the independent Highlife/Afrobeats artist is “On My Way.”
Embarking on ‘The Commitment Talk’ with your significant other can send shivers down your spine. Despite enjoying memorable moments together, a lingering uncertainty clouds the nature of your bond.
You’ve savored outings, grown intimately close, yet questions persist about the trajectory of your relationship. The fear looms large: what if your perception of the relationship diverges from your partner’s?
The mere thought of broaching the topic, of mentioning the ominous “C” word, sends shivers down your spine. The fear of driving your partner away with a simple request for commitment haunts many, regardless of gender.
Avoiding the conversation becomes an all too common coping mechanism. Worries about exerting pressure, misinterpretation, or unwelcome revelations deter individuals from initiating discussions on commitment. Instead, they pore over casual remarks, scrutinize non-verbal cues, hoping to decipher unspoken desires. Yet, this reluctance often leads to misunderstandings and emotional turmoil.
Assumptions about exclusivity and monogamy may prevail, yet without explicit agreements, ambiguity lingers. The absence of defined commitments raises the specter of inadvertently transgressing undefined boundaries.
Commitment transcends conventional milestones like cohabitation or marriage. It encompasses a mutual pledge, adaptable to the evolving stages of a relationship. Even within non-traditional arrangements, commitments can thrive, rooted in principles like honesty and fidelity.
Revisiting commitments is pivotal as relationships evolve. Authentic introspection is key: What are your relationship aspirations? How do you envision the pace of progress? Identifying non-negotiables sets the stage for candid dialogue—areas where compromise is non-negotiable.
Initiating ‘The Commitment Talk’ necessitates courage and tact. Avoid phrases laden with pressure or ultimatums, opting instead for a tone of understanding and openness. Timing and setting are critical considerations, minimizing apprehension and fostering genuine dialogue.
Navigating the conversation requires finesse, employing phrases that invite collaboration rather than coercion:
“Are you willing to…?” encourages open discussion, fostering mutual understanding and alignment.
“Here’s how I’d like this to be…” communicates personal desires and expectations, paving the way for constructive dialogue.
“Do you agree to…?” addresses specific concerns, promoting clarity and mutual respect.
“What are you willing to commit to?” prompts reflection, facilitating mutual exploration of shared values and goals.
Approaching ‘The Commitment Talk’ with empathy and sincerity lays the groundwork for a stronger, more fulfilling relationship, built on shared understanding and mutual respect.
Use these 4 phrases to ask for the kind of commitment you want (but won’t scare him away):
“Are you willing to…?”
Make sure that your tone matches the intent of this question. Find out what he is (and isn’t) willing to commit to with you. If you feel yourself getting defensive or shutting down because of what he says, take a deep breath and really hear his words. You two might not be as far apart about commitment as you initially think. You won’t know unless you stay open and listen.
“Here’s how I’d like this to be…”
Let him know that you’re clear about your intentions. Talk specifically about your expectations of him and your behaviors, how you’d like to be as a couple, and what your possible next steps are with a phrase like this. Speak these words as a statement of what you want and not as a demand.
“Do you agree to…?”
This is a helpful question to ask for specific issues you want to address. For example, if you’re in a long-distance relationship and you are concerned that he is romantically chatting with others online or dating others, ask him to agree to date and be romantic or intimate only with you.
“What are you willing to commit to?”
This question can be useful if the two of you seem to be in different places when it comes to commitment.
If you know where you disagree, ask him this question to find out where what you each want might overlap. Remember, you don’t have to give up on what’s most important to you or just go along with whatever he says. His answers to this question will let you know whether or not what you both want is a match. Use this to decide whether you’ll be flexible about commitment or whether it’s time to move on.
There’s a lot of work, compromise and sacrifice that goes into fostering a healthy, loving bond, and if you aren’t willing to give it all you have, you probably won’t make it through the trials
The story we’re sold about love usually doesn’t go past the exposition. The part people write about and talk about and make films about is the seeking, finding, losing and finding again.
We talk about heartbreak and loss, and how we grapple with ourselves and our partners, but we don’t talk about the mundane, the ordinary, the everyday lives we ultimately settle back into once the firework show has ended.
Because we’re conditioned to think that the chase and the thrill and the acquisition of love is love itself, we’re hooked on ideas more than we are open to connection.
We aren’t willing to do the work. Work isn’t romantic. Work isn’t fun.
Here are all the signs that you’re already in the right relationship. It’s just a matter of seeing it through.
1. You feel at peace.
In any other situation, this would put you at ease. But lately, it’s left you questioning whether or not that romantic spark still exists.
The truth is that the kind of love that lasts, the kind on which you build a respectful, intimate, real relationship, makes you feel at peace.
It’s more comfort than it is panic and thrill. There’s a difference between settling into comfort and settling for less than a love that makes you feel like your best, most grounded self.
2. You know how to resolve your old relationship patterns.
When you arrive at the point that you’re able to recognize a pattern emerging, you’re also at the point where you’re ready to let it go.
Often in the best relationships, these issues stand front-and-center. It’s never a matter of whether or not you experience them, but whether or not you resolve them.
3. You realize that nobody is responsible for your happiness but you.
When most people give up on love, it’s because they’ve reached the point at which the other person doesn’t make them happy.
The harsh reality is that nobody else can make you happy — not consistently, anyway. Regardless, that’s never something you should rely on.
Unhappy periods will come and go, but your bond has to be stronger.
The key to that is fueling your own gas tank; as anyone in a long-term relationship can tell you, it’s unrealistic attachment and expectation that sinks the ship faster than anything else.
4. You have an unprecedented level of acceptance for one another.
This is often an overlooked quality for a relationship, but it’s an important one.
The right relationship is the one in which you have a mutual acceptance and respect for one another.
In other words, you’re not trying to change each other. You don’t tease each other for the little things.
You see who the person is in their entirety, not just the parts you’d prefer.
5. You want the same things in the long-term.
There are so many crucial practicalities when it comes to choosing a life partner who’s suited for you, though none of them seem very romantic on the surface.
One of the most important is whether or not you want the same things in the big picture: kids or dogs or both? Suburbs or city?
If any one person has to compromise a fundamental part of the life they want to live for the sake of the relationship, it likely won’t work out.
6. You both want to make it work.
All relationships have issues. Making it through them is usually only a matter of whether or not both parties have a deep, innate desire to do so.
There’s a lot of work, compromise and sacrifice that goes into fostering a healthy, loving bond, and if you aren’t willing to give it all you have, you probably won’t make it through the trials that you will inevitably face.
