Gina Idan, a Ghanaian gospel artist based in the United States, has shared her advice for fellow musicians, emphasizing the importance of not solely focusing on songs in their local dialects but also giving due attention to English compositions for global acceptance.
Her perspective aligns with a recent suggestion made by renowned Nigerian gospel artist Nathaniel Bassey to the Ghanaian music community.
During a concert in Ghana, Bassey urged local gospel musicians to consider writing songs in English, emphasizing that the world needs to hear their music beyond their local dialects.
In an interview with the DAILY GUIDE, Gina Idan, who recently released her single, explained, “I think those who have issues with our brother’s advice have failed to situate the advice in its proper context. Nathaniel is a big artiste whose music continues to gain global attention partly due to the use of English or a blend of English and his local dialect.”
Quoting statistics from Statista, Idan pointed out that English is the most-spoken language globally, with over 1.4 billion speakers. She argued that English songs inherently have a broader market and audience compared to those produced in local dialects.
While acknowledging the international success of songs in local languages, she emphasized the transcultural and geographical reach of the English language.
Observing the trend of musicians translating their songs from local dialects to English in music videos, Idan highlighted the far-reaching consequences of such adaptations. She noted that this not only attracts and impacts more people but also influences audiences beyond the local setting.
However, she underscored that singing in English alone does not guarantee global success; it must be coupled with elements of quality music and effective promotion.
Idan, currently promoting her single ‘Wo So’ (You’re Great), emphasized the need for a comprehensive approach to succeed on the global music stage.
As the host of Thanksgiving Worship, an annual gospel concert in the US state of Georgia, Gina Idan continues to promote her reggae-infused single, ‘Wo So,’ produced by the talented Ghanaian sound engineer Morris Babyface. The song glorifies God’s supremacy and sovereignty.”
Prophetic Hill Chapel’s founder and leader, Nigel Giasie, joined forces with Ghanaian actress Akuapem Polo at Afua Asantewaa Aduonum’s sing-a-thon grounds to express their support for the singer.
On the evening of December 25, 2023, the Akwaaba Village, the venue for the event, was abuzz with the presence of Ghanaian celebrities such as Kwami Eugene, Shatta Wale, Fella Makafui, and Nana Ama McBrown, all gathering to endorse the female journalist and entrepreneur.
In a video shared on Facebook by Caleb Nii Boye, the prophet and the actress were seen warmly exchanging pleasantries.
Akuapem Polo’s surprised reaction upon seeing the man of God hinted at her unexpected delight at Nigel Gaisie’s presence at the occasion.
Afua Asantewaa Aduonum, the focal point of the event, has set her sights on breaking the Guinness World Record for the longest singing marathon.
Commencing on December 24, 2023, the event is scheduled to conclude on December 27, 2023. The current record holder for the longest singing marathon is Sunil Waghmare, who achieved the feat in 2012 by singing for an impressive 105 hours.
A pharmaceutical company, Maiden Pharmaceuticals, whose cough syrups have been associated with the deaths of children in Gambia, has refuted allegations of tampering with test samples or bribing officials to do so.
The denial from India’s Maiden Pharmaceuticals comes in response to an accusation made against it in a complaint currently under investigation by local health officials in India.
Authorities in the state of Haryana’s Food and Drug Administration announced on Friday that they were close to completing a probe into whether a state drug regulator was bribed to switch samples tested by the Indian government.
These samples contradicted the World Health Organization (WHO)’s findings of toxic substances in the cough syrups.
Maiden founder Naresh Kumar Goyal has vehemently denied the allegation. Goyal, as reported by Reuters, stated that a competitor was behind the complaint but did not disclose their identity.
The WHO has linked syrups made by Maiden to the deaths of 70 children in Gambia.
These deaths in the Gambia, attributed to kidney-related problems between July and October last year after consuming the cough syrup, were not isolated incidents. Dozens of other children also died in Cameroon and Uzbekistan.
In Kupiansk, Christmas is a name-only event. Just a small portion of the 26,000 people still live there after the majority of the children were evacuated.
Living near the front line brings with it a visceral tension. We heard two sirens and incoming artillery fire within the first hour of our arrival.
After being under occupation for half a year, this city was freed last year.
But the Russians started to retaliate as Western assistance began to decline.
Svitlana says, “We all live on the edge, afraid of dying.” She works at the neighborhood market in a kiosk.
The tension is strongest here. People eye us suspiciously and start recording us on their phones. All this while, loud explosions can be heard in the distance.
“When we go to work, we don’t know what will happen,” she says. “Whether Russia will hit us with rockets, or if we’ll make it home alive.”
As we moved away from the market, a decrease in pressure was met with the realization of how deserted the streets were. Mostly, elderly individuals are strolling on the sidewalks.
Through a wooden hatch, we encounter an exception, Sofia, a 17-year-old who has grown up with Russian aggression. Her father is fighting on the front, and you quickly understand how this war has toughened her.
“When the full-scale invasion began, we realised there were deaths everywhere,” she says. “Understanding this makes you stronger and more resilient in stressful situations, even during shelling.”
Sofia’s family home in the nearby city of Izium was destroyed so they moved here. All of her friends were forced to leave Kupiansk long ago.
She outwardly fears very little, but is clearly unimpressed with her country’s fate being determined by sceptical western politicians.
“I would invite them to see with their own eyes what it’s like here,” she says. “Then they would no longer question whether aid is needed or not.”
Image caption,Russian forces are around 8km in the distance, but are pushing hard
Similar to Avdiivka, another city in the east, Kupiansk is perched on a hill, and Ukrainian forces have been defending it from above. They are fighting to contain Russian advances, and you can see plumes of smoke across the Oskil River that splits it.
Although they are only about 8 km (5 miles) away, there are worries that they may retreat to the Oskil’s eastern bank.
Here, Ukraine’s goal of total territorial liberation seems incredibly far-fetched. Rather, its forces are fending off Russian attacks one after another.
With Russian drones constantly loitering above, large gatherings are dangerous. In a barn near Kupiansk, around 15 soldiers find the briefest of pauses for a Christmas prayer.
The candlelight illuminates the condensation from their breath. There’s a thin layer of snow on the frozen soil outside.
After some coercion from an officer to speak freely to us, Oleksiy, a soldier from the 14th separate mechanised brigade, explains the constant defending they’re having to sustain.
“It’s day and night, there are no breaks, it’s 24/7,” he says.
While Oleksiy fights, senior US politicians are on their Christmas breaks after failing to agree a military support package for Kyiv worth almost £50bn.
“The Russians have more targets, so we need more shells,” explains Oleksiy. “They throw a lot of men and machinery into battle, they don’t pity anything.”
Image caption,Oleksiy has been fighting near Kupiansk for nearly two years
Kyiv argues that Moscow won’t stop at Kupiansk, should it fall once more. It still wants the whole of Ukraine.
What it really wants to do is sell the idea of a Ukrainian victory. Although with the winds of battle blowing the way they are in Kupiansk, that’s become increasingly difficult.
The rivalry between mental health advocate Abena Korkor and Ghanaian actress Victoria Lebene has taken a different turn at the Efya Nocturnal concert.
Both attended the event, with Victoria on the red carpet conducting interviews. Despite their past issues, Abena approached Victoria, inquiring about “their husband.”
Victoria responded with maturity, stating he is doing well, and they shared a hug.
Recall, Abena Korkor previously accused Victoria’s husband of attempting to engage in intimate relations, but it seems they have now reconciled.
After an impressive debut in showbiz, Sally M, also known as Sally Mugabe Hayfron, has been honored as the New Artist of the Year at the 2023 Western Music Awards.
This recognition highlights Sally M’s outstanding performance in her inaugural year in the entertainment industry.
Sally M’s notable achievements include her collaboration with Ahkan, formerly part of the dynamic Ruff and Smooth duo, on the popular track “Feeling.”
The song ranks among the top five most streamed songs by artists from the Western Region, alongside Lasmid, Kofi Kinaata, Fameye, and Dope Nation.
Competing against talents like Fiffi Latex, Phynex, Debby Sway, and others in the New Artist of the Year category, Sally M emerged victorious.
Additionally, her single “Makoma” earned her a nomination in the Highlife Song of the Year category.
In a remarkable year where all three of her songs – “Attention Love,” “Makoma,” and “Feeling” – gained significant traction on digital streaming platforms, Sally M’s recognition is well-deserved.
In the year 2023, the entertainment industry witnessed a surge in controversies, with several media personalities actively contributing to the discourse through various means.
These individuals grabbed headlines for engaging in feuds, pulling off stunts, critiquing politicians, and other actions that ignited controversies across social media platforms.
While some media figures focused on holding politicians accountable and criticizing them for their actions, others directed accusations at their colleagues and fellow showbiz personalities.
The result was a plethora of online conversations and discussions sparked by these media personalities’ actions.
1. Blakk Rasta
When it came to political matters that tended to make Ghanaians’ problems in the midst of the economic crisis worse, Blakk Rasta was outspoken.
He was an outspoken opponent of Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia and President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo for failing to address the predicament of Ghanaians in the face of the dire economic circumstances facing their nation.
He wasn’t limited to criticizing politicians; he also included other celebrities who made headlines for the wrong reasons.
2. Afia Pokua (Vim Lady)
The outspoken media personality expressed disapproval of the Akufo-Addo-led government as well as other matters concerning the country’s citizens’ quality of life.
Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen, according to Vim Lady, is a laid-back and lethargic individual who should take responsibility for his defeat in the NPP primaries.
In addition, Afia Pokua attacked Deborah Seyram, the side chick, after the court denied her request. She claimed that Seyram’s reliance on verbal assurance was insufficient to persuade the court to grant her request in the lawsuit against Ernest Kwasi Nimako, the former First Atlantic Bank Chief Financial Officer.
Other topics Vim Lady discussed that caused controversy throughout the nation included her opinion on the “kingship rift” between the Asantehene and Dormaahene.
3. Bridget Otoo
Prominent media figure Bridget Otoo made headlines for controversial actions and remarks about certain individuals.
Her active participation in the #OccupyJulorbiHouse protest drew attention, particularly when she clashed with the police amid a misunderstanding.
In another notable incident, the CEO of Menzgold, Nana Appiah Mensah (NAM 1), sued Bridget Otoo for consistently labeling him a ‘fraudster.’ Undeterred by the legal action, she pledged to confront NAM1 in court.
Beyond legal matters, Bridget Otoo openly criticized Vice PresidentDr. Mahamudu Bawumia, accusing him of spreading falsehoods to the Ghanaian public about pre-election promises.
4. Sally Mann
In 2023, Sally Mann became a notable figure in the entertainment industry due to her involvement in various controversies. She notably criticized Dancehall artist Shatta Wale on several occasions, including a controversial statement where she suggested that the artist might be prone to suicidal tendencies due to envy.
Shatta Wale, responding to Sally Mann’s remarks, urged the Ghana Police Service to investigate and take action against her for her comments about suicide.
Beyond her interactions with Shatta Wale, Sally Mann frequently expressed her opinions on other celebrities and their issues.
This included a contentious exchange with the followers of actress Nana Ama McBrown.
After some of McBrown’s fans suggested that Sally Mann should concentrate on having children instead of criticizing McBrown, Sally retorted by questioning whether McBrown had given birth naturally, further fueling the controversy.
5. MC Yaa Yeboah
MC Yaa Yeboah took the spotlight among controversial media personalities, stirring discussions and reactions with her outspoken criticisms.
She notably labeled Prophet Nigel Gaisie as ‘childish’ for a prophecy concerning Sheriff Black, creating a buzz on social media.
Her critique focused on Gaisie’s lack of clarity and purpose in delivering the message, leading to confusion and speculation that it involved the musician Black Sherif.
Additionally, MC Yaa Yeboah didn’t hold back in criticizing Mzbel’s son for expressing disbelief in the existence of God as perceived by Christians.
These public outbursts by MC Yaa Yeboah sparked significant controversies and discussions across social media platforms.
6. Ohemaa Woyeje
Ohemaa Woyeje’s attacks on Deloris Frimpong Manso popularly known as Delay about an interview was one of the most much-talked-about issues in the year.
She stated that Delay’s questions about her husband during an interview were intentional and had malicious intent to dent her image however, he played along.
Ohemaa Woyeje also disclosed that Delay is an arrogant person who didn’t want her background to be known after she gained popularity in the country.
Although Delay did not respond to her claims, there were mixed reactions on social media while others were bashing her for denigrating her colleague’s image.
7. Kwasi Aboagye
The controversy involving Kwasi Aboagye, the host of Peace FM’s Entertainment Review Show, erupted when he disputed Shatta Wale’s public claim of being paid 80,000 pounds for a performance at the 2023 Ghana Music Awards UK.
In response, Shatta Wale expressed his dissatisfaction by insulting Kwasi Aboagye and the owners of Despite Media, accusing them of tarnishing his image.
The incident generated a significant buzz on social media, with diverse opinions emerging. While some criticized Shatta Wale for his outburst, others applauded him for what they perceived as speaking the truth.
8. Abeiku Santana
In 2023, Despite Media’s employee Abeiku Santana gained notoriety for various controversies, including his commentary on the sentencing of Pizzaman’s employees caught stealing chicken and cooking oil.
Expressing bewilderment over why a youth leader pursued the case in court, he deemed the punishment excessively harsh.
Later regretting his remarks, Abeiku Santana publicly apologized to Pizzaman’s CEO. However, his initial comments sparked backlash on social media, as they appeared to endorse the wrongdoing.
These media personalities, including Abeiku Santana, dominated the year’s controversies.
Irish police have increased uniformed patrols in Dublin following a shooting incident at Browne’s Steakhouse on Christmas Eve.
A man in his 20s died from injuries sustained during the incident, while a second man in his 40s is in serious condition with gunshot wounds.
Both were taken to James Connolly Memorial Hospital, where the younger man was pronounced dead. Gardaí are exploring whether the deceased was involved in the initial attack and tackled afterward.
The incident is believed to be gang-related and linked to an ongoing drugs and gun-related feud. No arrests have been made.
Taoiseach (Irish prime minister) Leo Varadkar said he was “shocked” to hear about the shooting at “a well known family restaurant I’ve visited many times”.
“Full Garda investigation under way. My thanks to them and solidarity to staff and customers,” he wrote on X, formerly Twitter.
Justice minister Helen McEntee said that the attack taking place where families had gathered was “disgusting”.
“That anyone could perpetrate such violence as families gathered together is especially disgusting,” Helen McEntee wrote on social media.
“I deplore the violence in Blanchardstown tonight.
“This viciousness has resulted in unimaginable human suffering this Christmas,” she wrote on Instagram.
“I’m thinking of the bereaved, those who were at the scene and indeed all the emergency service personnel working tonight and over Christmas who have to deal with this senseless violence.”
Image caption,Forensic investigators remained at the scene on Monday
The scene remains preserved for a technical examination.
Gardaí have appealed to the public not to share videos from the scene in the aftermath of the shooting, and to be aware of “a significant level of speculation, misinformation and disinformation” that is being circulated.
At least 70 individuals were reported killed in an Israeli air strike on the Al-Maghazi refugee camp in central Gaza, as confirmed by Gaza’s Hamas-run health ministry.
The death toll is expected to rise due to the significant number of families residing in the area. The Israeli military is investigating the reports of the strike.
Simultaneously, there are indications from Israeli and Arab media that Egypt, sharing a border with the Gaza Strip, has proposed a new ceasefire between Israel and Hamas.
Numerous injured individuals, including children, were swiftly transported from Maghazi to Al-Aqsa Hospital, with distressing scenes of bloodied faces and body bags outside.
The health ministry stated that three houses were struck in the late Sunday attack, resulting in the destruction of a densely populated residential block.
A father said he had lost his daughter and grandchildren, adding that his family had fled from the north for safety in central Gaza.
“They lived on the third floor of one of the buildings,” he said. “The wall collapsed on them. My grandchildren, my daughter, her husband – all gone.
“We are all targeted. Civilians are targeted. There is no safe place. They told us to leave Gaza City – now we came to central Gaza to die.”
The Palestine Red Crescent Society says “intense” Israeli air strikes have led to the closure of main roads between Maghazi and two other refugee camps, Al-Bureij and Al-Nuseirat, “hindering the work of ambulances and rescue teams”.
In a statement to the BBC, the Israeli military said it had received “reports of an incident in the Maghazi camp”.
“Despite the challenges posed by Hamas terrorists operating within civilian areas in Gaza, the IDF [Israeli Defense Forces] is committed to international law including taking feasible steps to minimize harm to civilians,” it added.
According to the health ministry, more than 20,000 people have been killed – mostly children and women – and 54,000 injured in Gaza since 7 October, when Hamas and other Palestinian groups attacked Israel, killing 1,200 people and taking about 240 hostages.
According to the Israeli military, over a dozen soldiers have lost their lives in Gaza since Friday, bringing the total number of casualties from the ground offensive that began on October 7 to 156.
Despite Saturday being one of the deadliest days, Mr. Netanyahu insisted that there was “no choice” but to continue the conflict.
The new ceasefire proposal by Egypt would be implemented in three parts:
The first phase of the ceasefire would see a humanitarian pause of seven to ten days during which Hamas would release all civilian hostages in exchange for some Palestinian prisoners from Israeli jails
In the week-long second phase, Hamas would release all Israeli female soldiers in return for more prisoners and the exchange of corpses held since 7 October
The third phase, which would last a month, would see the release of the remaining hostages and a number of Palestinian prisoners and Israel withdrawing from the Gaza Strip and suspension of all aerial activities.
Indirect negotiations would be held in Egypt with Qatari and US participation.
An Israeli source told Maariv newspaper that the Egyptian initiative could lead to negotiations. Hamas says it is studying the proposal.
Meanwhile, the Danish shipping giant, Maersk, says it is preparing to resume shipping operations through the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden.
The announcement came after an international military operation, led by the US, was deployed to prevent the targeting of commercial ships by drones from areas of Yemen controlled by Houthi rebels. The Houthis have declared their support for Hamas and have said they would target any ship travelling to Israel.
Maersk and other shipping companies stopped sending ships through the Red Sea and the Suez Canal earlier this month as a result of drone attacks. US Central Command said two days ago that a US navy destroyer had shot down four drones in the Red Sea launched from Yemeni territory.
In another development, Pope Francis appealed for peace in the Middle East as he presided over a Christmas Eve Mass at Saint Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican.
Referring to the war between Israel and Hamas, the Pope said Jesus’s message of peace was being drowned out by the “futile logic of war” in the very land where he had been born.
Violent protests break out following a series of peaceful post-election demonstrations.
Serbia Against Violence coalition members attempted city hall entry, faced police resistance.
Opposition suspects instigators in the crowd led to escalated police response.
Lawyer Sofija Mandic urges President Vucic to relinquish power, accusing the government of power abuse.
Protesters allege the government orchestrated the influx of thousands to manipulate Belgrade’s city election results, demanding a re-run. Despite irregularities reported by observers, President Vucic’s party retained parliamentary power. Accusations include ballot box tampering and vote purchasing. In a Sunday address, Vucic attributed the unrest to foreign interference.
“Those who swore to fight against violence just confirmed once again that they are the real thugs,” Mr Vucic said.
The opposition aimed to thwart the ruling party’s majority and secure control of Belgrade, but official results, immediately contested as fraudulent, revealed their failure to achieve either objective.
In response, they initiated daily protests, with seven opposition figures resorting to a hunger strike. Marinika Tepic, one of the hunger strikers, accused Vucic of stealing thousands of votes during Sunday’s protest.
The electoral commission announced a re-run in about 30 polling stations out of 8,000 nationwide on Wednesday.
Germany criticized the electoral misconduct allegations, deeming them “unacceptable” for a country aspiring to join the EU.
A social media user has questioned Mr. Eazi’s decision to organize a concert in Accra during a period when there’s a growing call among some Ghanaians for limiting foreign music.
This issue surfaced after the artist shared updates on the preparations at the location for his ‘Detty Rave’ concert, set for December 27, 2023. ‘Detty Rave’ is an annual event hosted by Mr. Eazi in Accra, Ghana, since 2017.
Despite this, a skeptical netizen is questioning the rationale behind the Nigerian singer’s plan to hold a concert in Ghana, especially at a time when there are voices advocating for a reduction in foreign music.
“Accra wen want ban 9ja music na im u dey go do show,” the netizen quizzed.
Mr. Eazi furiously attacked the social media user in return, questioning if he had any evidence to support his claims.
Mr. Eazi asked if he had seen any legislation to that effect or heard the president make any pronouncement about it, characterizing the netizen as naive and uninformed.
“Olodo so you see am for presidential declaration abi the law pass for parliament?! Next time use your brain small!” Mr. Eazi responded.
Nigerians refuse to support Ghanaian musicians Black Sherif and others
There are reports that a segment of Nigerians is actively avoiding Black Sherif, who holds considerable popularity in Nigeria and boasts a substantial fan base, even surpassing some local artists.
This development follows the circulation of a video wherein certain musicians were seen advocating for the promotion of Ghanaian music during the festive season.
Black Sherif, in particular, has since been singled out and subjected to intense backlashes from Nigerians.
Background
A group of Ghanaian artistes, including Samini, Reggie Rockstone, Smallgod, DJ Mensah, and Black Sherif, have been vocal about promoting 100% Ghanaian music this December.
Their advocacy aims to highlight the richness and diversity of the local music scene during the festive season.
Notably, there has been no mention of banning foreign music, specifically Nigerian tracks as perceived.
Beijing is undergoing its coldest December since records began in 1951, experiencing temperatures frequently dropping below -10C this month.
This follows a year of extremes, with Beijing registering its hottest ever June day just six months ago at over 40C.
China has encountered multiple waves of extremely cold weather this winter, with a Beijing weather observatory recording over 300 hours of below-freezing temperatures in under two weeks.
The cold snap has affected various provinces, leading to school closures and transportation challenges.
In Henan province, persistent cold weather has strained energy supplies, causing heating boilers to break down. Additionally, Beijing has grappled with significant snowfall.
Meanwhile, northern Japan has witnessed substantial snowfall, with alerts issued for heavy snow in some areas, including around a meter (39 inches) in Gifu and Hokkaido prefectures.
South Korea has experienced extreme temperature fluctuations, ranging from 16C to below -12C in recent weeks. The Korean Meteorological Administration (KMA) reported this variance.
The cause of the cold snap is attributed to a weakening Polar Vortex, allowing cold air to move further south than usual. There is ongoing debate among scientists about the role of climate change in this phenomenon.
On Sunday (December 24), the Senegalese navy revealed the seizure of 690kg of cocaine en route to Europe.
The drugs were confiscated from an ultra-fast go-fast boat, and all five Spaniards on board were arrested, as announced by the army in a statement.
The interception occurred 220 km off the coast of Senegal, where an ocean-going patrol boat had to issue verbal warnings and fire shots to halt the boat.
The cargo had already been released by the time of the intervention, but the authorities managed to recover the 690 kg of cocaine.
This incident follows two other sea seizures announced by the Senegalese army on November 28 and December 16, involving nearly three tonnes of cocaine each time. In January of the same year, the Senegalese navy confiscated over 800 kg of cocaine from a ship off Dakar.
While West and Central Africa have historically been transit areas for drugs traveling from Latin America to Europe, the region is now facing increasing drug consumption, according to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC).
In June 2019, Senegalese customs seized 1.3 tons of cocaine from two Italian-flagged ships at the Autonomous Port of Dakar, marking the second-largest cocaine haul in Senegal since 2007.
ENACT research also reveals another significant seizure of nearly one ton from a vessel destined for Dakar on the high seas in early November.
Tunisia experienced widespread public disapproval during the local elections on December 24, particularly as citizens largely rejected the initiative to establish a second parliamentary chamber.
The opposition views these elections as another move in President Kais Saied’s authoritative governance.
With only 11.66% voter turnout, as reported by the Independent High Authority for Elections (Isie), out of 9 million eligible voters, the elections indicate a significant lack of public engagement.
Since July 25, 2021, President Saied has been consolidating powers, culminating in a constitutional amendment through a 2022 referendum, resulting in a two-chamber Parliament.
The first chamber, the Assembly of People’s Representatives (ARP), with limited powers, took office in 2023 after legislative elections were boycotted by the opposition and saw a meager 11% turnout.
The investiture of the second chamber is scheduled for June 2024, involving a complex process of local ballots and draws.
The Council will play a crucial role in deciding on the state budget and regional development projects.
On Sunday, Tunisians were called to elect over 2,000 local councillors, and while most polling stations in central Tunis were open from 08:00 to 18:00 local time, they reported low turnout, according to AFP.
What are the people saying?
“I have never seen such a low turnout for elections held in Tunisia since 2011,” the year that marked the start of the Arab Spring, the president of a polling station in Tunis told AFP on condition of anonymity.
“I understand the people who are shunning these elections”, Salah Habib, a man in his sixties who has just “voted to mark my presence”, told AFP.
“I didn’t understand anything about this election and I don’t want to understand anything,” said Nadia Majer, a 23-year-old student leaving a gym.
When will the results be announced?
The Isie will announce the preliminary results of the first round on 27 December. The second round is scheduled for February.
The opposition has called for a boycott of this “illegal” vote, which it claims was “imposed” by President Said to complete his “authoritarian” process.
Since February, the authorities have imprisoned more than twenty opponents, including the leader of Ennahdha, Rached Ghannouchi, and the co-founder of the National Salvation Front – the main coalition of opponents – Jawhar Ben Mbarek, as well as former ministers and businessmen.
More than 260 prominent Tunisians have signed a nationwide petition opposing a “pointless” election, saying that those in power “continue to implement their political project imposed on Tunisians”.
According to the signatories, the purpose of these elections is to “weaken local power, disperse it and turn it into another docile instrument in the hands of the executive”.
In the latest development of the turbulent family affair involving veteran actor Emeka Ike, his brother Victor Ike has issued a stern warning to his nephew, Michael.
This intervention follows Michael’s recent interview with Chude Jideonwo, where he expressed his deep resentment towards his father, Emeka Ike.
The situation escalated with the emergence of a leaked audio in which Emeka Ike claimed that his son was being manipulated to use as a tool for blackmail, particularly targeting his ex-wife, Susan Emma.
This revelation has reignited the long-standing issues stemming from Emeka Ike’s marriage to Susan Emma, which ended nearly a decade ago.
Victor Ike, stepping into the fray, expressed his skepticism about the allegations against his brother made by his ex-wife. He scrutinized the content revealed in the interview and questioned the accuracy of Susan Emma’s accusations against Emeka Ike.
Highlighting his concern about the selective release of information, Victor noted that the partial disclosure of the voice note was likely a tactic to manipulate public perception and paint his brother in a negative light. He lamented the societal bias in Nigeria that often disregards men’s perspectives, especially when they attempt to share their side of a story.
In a poignant conclusion to his message, Victor urged Michael to reconcile with his father, Emeka Ike. He implored him to retract the harsh words spoken and to work towards mending the strained father-son relationship.
Actor Emeka Ike’s brother Victor Ike has claimed that the actor was slapped multiple times by his estranged wife Suzanne.
The performer disclosed the information to support his brother, who is facing assault charges from Suzanne and their eldest child, Michael.
He also claimed in a string of posts on X that Suzanne had physically assaulted their mother “a couple of times.”
“I heard the lies made against my brother, Emeka Ike by his ex-wife on @Chude show & @lindaikeji blog. So: She slapped him on several occasions but now claims he is a wife-beater?” a part of Victor’s post on X reads.
Victor went on to criticize Suzanne for drawing their son into the argument and urged her to make sure he tells his father he is sorry.
This occurs subsequent to the discovery of a voicemail in which Emeka commands his son Michael to commit suicide.
I heard the lies made against my brother, Emeka Ike by his Ex-wife on @Chude show & @lindaikeji blog. So; -She slapped him on a number of occasion but now claims he is a wife beater? -She was a signatory to his bank account, and when he was alerted that huge amounts were being pic.twitter.com/nTVIikolgy
withdrawn constantly, he asks to be informed before withdrawals, then she turns it into an issue of been financially deprived? -He sponsored her from the level of JAMB exams to University & then Masters. He opened CIS movie studio and a secondary school, both of which she was put
him, label him a wife beater & manipulate his kids against him? Why only use parts of his Voice Note and not the complete VN, If not for the intent to blackmail him with false allegations? Men's voices don't matter anymore cos when they try to express themselves, people don't
As Russian forces make strides outside Kupiansk, soldiers are gearing up to mark Christmas.
For the first time this year, many Ukrainian Orthodox Christians are set to celebrate Christmas on December 25.
Traditionally following the Julian calendar, shared with Russia, where Christmas is observed on January 7, Ukraine has made a significant shift.
It now celebrates Christmas according to the Western, or Gregorian, calendar used in its everyday life, marking another departure from Russian practices.
Christmas Eve services were attended by Orthodox Christians at Kyiv’s St. Michael’s Golden-Domed Monastery.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky changed the law in July, saying it allowed Ukrainians to “abandon the Russian heritage” of celebrating Christmas in January.
In a Christmas message issued on Sunday evening, Mr Zelensky said all Ukrainians were now together.
“We all celebrate Christmas together. On the same date, as one big family, as one nation, as one united country.”
In the capital Kyiv, married couple Lesia Shestakova, a Catholic, and Oleksandr Shestakov, who is Orthodox, are celebrating Christmas together.
The pair – who until now marked Christmas twice, with their respective parents – attended the Sunday morning service at the city’s Catholic cathedral (pictured above).
“There is finally a day in Ukraine which my husband and I can spend together in the cathedral and thank God that we are together, alive and in good health,” Lesia told Reuters news agency.
The Orthodox Church of Ukraine (OCU), established in 2019 as an independent church, has shifted its Christmas celebration to December 25.
This change comes following its formal separation from the Russian Orthodox Church, a move triggered by Moscow’s annexation of Crimea in 2014 and its backing of separatists in eastern Ukraine.
On Sunday, people across the country engaged in prayer and candle-lighting ceremonies.
In Lviv, a western city relatively untouched by the war, children adorned in traditional costumes sang carols and participated in joyful processions on the streets.
Children in Lviv don traditional Ukrainian attire, singing carols as part of the Christmas festivities.
In Kyiv, Ukraine, citizens come together to decorate a Christmas tree near Independence Square.
While the Orthodox Church of Ukraine (OCU) has attracted numerous worshippers in recent years, millions still adhere to the historically Russia-linked Ukrainian Orthodox Church (UOC), choosing to celebrate Christmas on January 7.
In 2022, the UOC claims to have severed ties with Moscow due to Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, although skepticism remains among many.
Notably, there are expected to be Ukrainians who choose to celebrate Christmas twice – the more, the merrier.
In the course of Efya Nocturnal’s Concert at the Accra International Conference Center, Becca, alongside other celebrities like Fella Makafui and Medikal, attended to support Efya.
While performing her renowned song “African Woman” on stage with Efya, Becca’s energy levels disappointed some fans.
Many expressed their disappointment, suggesting that Becca may have lost confidence in her singing, leading to the lackluster performance.
In a surprising revelation on the latest season of the reality TV show GH Queens, Efia Odo, a well-known Ghanaian socialite, has acknowledged her past romantic involvement with rapper Kwesi Arthur.
She disclosed that their three-year relationship came to an abrupt end when Kwesi Arthur’s behavior towards her changed unexpectedly.
Until now, Efia Odo had consistently maintained that her connection with the rapper was strictly platonic, publicly denying any romantic ties in numerous interviews and on various platforms. Despite fans’ skepticism about her claims, she had previously affirmed her role as merely Kwesi Arthur’s biggest supporter.
However, a noticeable shift occurred recently, as observed in Efia Odo’s social media activities, where she has been openly critical of Kwesi Arthur. This change in demeanor followed her announcement of no longer being the avid fan of the ‘Grind Day’ artist.
The truth about their relationship finally surfaced when Efia Odo was questioned about her personal attacks on Kwesi Arthur in the new season of GH Queens, leading to her candid admission about their past romance.
“You guys didn’t know that I was in a secret relationship with Kwesi Arthur from December 2018 to December 2021. Now we don’t talk anymore, at all. He switched up fast and I kept asking myself who he is because I don’t know who he is anymore. Somebody you wake up to every day out of nowhere just switches up,” she told her friends.
Efia Odo said she has since been celibate as part of her healing process.
“From that moment that he and I broke up, I decided to be celibate. Not because of anything but because I just wanted to get Efia Odo back. But now praise the lord, I am very good,” she added.
Three years ago, Ghanaian blogger Zionfelix, a guest in Efia’s home for an interview, asked her if she had ever dated Kwesi and this was the response, “We just worked on the ‘Nobody’ video. We just became cool after that. Before we even met, I really liked him. I love him music, I love his vibe. He’s got this street, hood-like Tema attitude. I like rap and he’s a great lyricist.
“His words and his songs, sometimes you can relate to them as a human being, working so very hard to getting to where you are and people are trying to hate on you… It’s a lot of things… I just love the way he is as a rapper, as a person and yeah, I like him.”
Efia Odo, at that time, revealed that she had no intentions to get intimate with Kwesi Arthur.
“I can simply and innocently crush on him just because of his personality and not like anything sexual,” she stressed.
Kwesi Arthur released the hit song ‘Nobody’ featuring Mr Eazi in 2019. The music video starred Efia Odo as a lover of Arthur.
On December 20, 2023, the La Palm Royal Beach Hotel hosted the third edition of the esteemed Supreme Dynamic Talent Academy Awards (SDTA Awards) Gala under a starry night.
In its third year, SDTA Awards bestowed the title of SUPREME AFRICAN ACTOR OF THE DECADE upon Adjetey Anang, a cherished figure in Ghana’s film industry. Known as “Pusher” from the TV series “Things We Do for Love,” he succeeds Prince David Osei.
Adjetey Anang, donned in an elegant black kaftan, gracefully accepted the ‘Supreme African Actor of the Decade’ accolade from the Lebanon Ambassador to Ghana, H.E Maher Kheir, succeeding Prince David Osei.
The multiple award-winning star took the stage to deliver a brief but heartfelt speech, expressing gratitude for the prestigious honor of being named the Supreme African Actor of the Decade at the 2023 SDTA Awards Gala.
“Really feel humbled by this award. I value every single award and this is up there with all the rest. Thank you SDTA Awards for all the sacrifice while you continue to impact & inspire us to do more.” Adjetey Anang
The award recipients for the Decade Film category are chosen at the discretion of the jury and Advisory Board and not open for public voting, however public nominations are allowed.
This category is reserved only for the finest of film stars & filmmakers, who stand out for consistently portraying supremacy in their work over the decade.
If one were sitting in the audience, a neck spasm would be impending with all the turning and trying to spot the celebrities, diplomats, and other dignitaries.
While trying to catch all the fun on stage, from musical performances to Cultural dance, to poetry, etc., it was indeed a night of glittering performances, tickling humor, and humble gratifications. Some of the other dignitaries who also received Awards at SDTA Awards 2023 includes;
The recipients of the Decade Film category awards are selected by the discretion of the jury and Advisory Board, without public voting, although public nominations are permitted.
This exclusive category is dedicated to the most exceptional film stars and filmmakers who have consistently demonstrated excellence in their craft over the decade. For those seated in the audience, the constant turning and attempts to spot celebrities, diplomats, and dignitaries could induce neck spasms.
The night unfolded with glittering performances, entertaining humor, and genuine expressions of gratitude, featuring musical acts, cultural dances, poetry, and more. Noteworthy dignitaries were also honored at the SDTA Awards 2023.
H.E Maher Kheir , the Lebanon Ambassador to Ghana – Supreme Diplomat of the Year Actor Prince David Osei – Supreme African Celebrity Rolemodel Of the Year Ghanaian highlife musician, songwriter, producer, and composer -Gyedu-Blay Ambolley – Supreme Lifetime Achievement Award in Music, 2023 Recipient. Actor Ecow Smith-Asante – Supreme African Film Icon of the Decade Akumaa Mama Zimbi – Ghanaian Television and radio broadcast journalist – Supreme African TV Presenter Of the Decade Ramesh Jai – Owner Apex Advertising – Supreme African Filmmaker of the Year Enoch Atakorah – Film Producer- Supreme African Filmmaker of the Decade Actress Nikki Samonas – Supreme African Actress of the Year Actor Ian Wodi – Supreme African Actor of the Year Amongst many others.
“This huge recognition is to celebrate him for his unending commitment to his work supremacy over the past decade, in-fact he has been on this greatness for over 22 years and some of us adults were just toddlers then, so we applaud his Consistency and tenacity, what we like to call the AFRI- TENACITY.
We salute him in his boundary breaking exploits and his bold and visible presence in the spaces and places that matter. We also honor the work that he does to expand these spaces for more people, hence we are giving him his flowers. Congratulations to him on his well deserved honor.” Hon. Zino Lexili Ogazi- Chairperson SDTA Awards.
ABOUT ADJETEY ANANG – SUPREME AFRICAN ACTOR OF THE DECADE 2023 Adjetey Anang (born 7 July 1973) is a Ghanaian actor, popularly known as “Pusher”, which was his screen name in the television series Things We Do for Love. Adjetey is a multiple award winning film and stage actor with over 22 years experience in various forms of theatre and screen productions.
He has featured in many Ghanaian movies, including Deadly Voyage, A Sting in a Tale, The Perfect Picture and more recently, Sugar, The Perfect Picture – Ten Years Later and Gold Coast Lounge. He has also featured in a Dutch movie titled Slavery.
Adjetey Anang has also been a part of several stage plays in Ghana, South Africa, the Netherlands and France such as “Through a Film Darkly”, “Joe Turner’s Come and Gone”, “Run for your Wife”, “Death and the King’s Horseman”, “Marriage of Anansewa”, “La Cantatrice Chauve” “Prison Graduates”, etc.
Adjetey Anang has a First Class Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from the School of Performing Arts at the University of Ghana, Legon. He further obtained a Master of Arts Degree in Dramatic Arts (with distinction) from the University of the Witwatersrand in Johannesburg South Africa (Wits University). He has also attended several workshops and training programmes in Ghana, South Africa, Nigeria, The Netherlands, the UK and the US, etc.
He is a lecturer in Acting at the National Film and Television Institute (NAFTI) teaching at the Bachelor’s Degree and Diploma levels and also handles Acting Certificate Courses at the same Institution. Adjetey’s acting debut was on stage with Nyankunton Players (a drama group), where he was handpicked and employed by the National Drama company (Abibiogromma). This platform projected his talent and potential onto National stage productions. His screen debut was on the TV Drama 1998 with Ghana’s National TV station (GTV). His contemporary actors and film producers have described him one of the best classically trained screen & stage actors in Africa ready to take on the global stage.
ABOUT SUPREME DYNAMIC TALENT ACADEMY AWARDS (SDTA AWARDS) Supreme Dynamic Talent Academy Awards® (SDTA AWARDS, Pronounced as STAR AWARDS For the initials ) is the first Prestigious and Global Awards Organization from Africa to Celebrate & honor the Supremacy & Dynamism Of Both African & International Creatives & Talents in the Creative or Entertainment Industry, whose works have projected the Arts an Entertainment sector Supremely.
SDTA AWARDS also has a SPECIAL RECOGNITION Category which spotlights on ALL Walks of life, to celebrate and honor personalities from around the globe with short or long standing service to the development of their respective fields and also to Humanity, for creative and innovative Contributions.
SDTA AWARDS is presented in an Annual Awards show, hosted by Supreme Dynamic Talent Academy, an internationally recognised Talent Academy with the aim to equip & train Talents with Global standards to strive for Supremacy in their careers, either in Modeling, Pageantry, Acting, TV Presenting, Makeup & Dancing.
SDTA Awards is hosted by Supreme Dynamic Talent Academy In collaboration with supreme Dynamic Agency, which holds unparalleled experiences and unrivaled expertise in hosting international conferences, events, and exhibitions, including Talent Management, Pro PR, AD Content Creative Services, Digital Marketing & ushering Services.
In the intricate fabric of Ghanaian existence, music stands as an enduring thread, weaving narratives of joy, resilience, and communal spirit.
As 2023 drew to a close, a year etched with challenges and triumphs, the atmosphere reverberated with a symphony of melodies that uplifted the spirits of Ghanaians.
These were more than just songs; they served as anthems mirroring the nation’s heartbeat, offering solace, motivation, and, most importantly, a reason to dance.
From impromptu gatherings to the lively settings of organized events, clubs, pubs, churches, workplaces, and the ever-connected landscape of social media, these songs resonated where it truly mattered.
They effortlessly transcended boundaries, evident in their impressive streaming figures and chart-topping positions.
These tunes not only mesmerized listeners but also propelled the profiles of the gifted musicians responsible, expanding their appeal across diverse audiences.
A GhanaWeb poll on the top songs of 2023 by Ghanaian artists drew participation from 3,461 individuals, meticulously selecting twelve popular songs for the survey.
Embark with us on a rhythmic odyssey as we delve into the twelve Ghanaian melodies that became the pulsating heartbeat of the nation in 2023.
1. “Terminator” – King Promise ft Young Jonn:
• A lively Amapiano hit by King Promise.
• Dancegod Llyod’s choreography contributed to its popularity.
• Released on May 8, 2023, with over 25 million YouTube views.
• Topped the GhanaWeb poll with 30.77% of the votes.
2. “Aseda” – Nacee:
• A soul-stirring gospel track emphasizing thanksgiving.
• The Aseda Challenge boosted its popularity.
• Released on April 5, 2023, with over 6 million YouTube views.
• Secured the 2nd spot in the GhanaWeb poll with 25.89% of the votes.
3. “Kwaku Ananse” – Amerado:
• Amerado’s breakthrough with a singing approach.
• Reflects on criticism and human nature.
• Music video released on October 6, 2023, with over 900k views.
• 3rd in the GhanaWeb poll with 21.93% of the votes.
4. “Into the Future” – Stonebwoy:
• Love-themed song from the 5th Dimension album.
• Released on June 16, 2023, with over 3 million YouTube views.
• Ranked 4th in the GhanaWeb poll with 6.04% of the votes.
5. “Oh No” – Black Sherif:
• A song about Black Sherif’s determined and resilient attitude.
• Released on November 9, 2023, with over 5 hundred YouTube views.
• 5th in the GhanaWeb poll with 3.21% of the votes.
6. “Good Sin” – Olivetheboy:
• Olivetheboy’s breakout hit, recognized as Apple Music’s UP Next.
• Secured a position on Chartmetrics list of Top 5 Most Streamed Ghanaian artists for the first half of 2023.
• Released on August 31, 2023, with over 4 million YouTube views.
• Ranked 6th in the GhanaWeb poll with 3.12% of the votes.
7. “Try Me” – Sarkodie:
• A controversial release responding to Yvonne Nelson’s memoir.
• Gained over a million views, sparking widespread discussions.
• Occupying the 7th position in the GhanaWeb poll, it secured 3.21% of the votes.
8. “Monica” – Kuami Eugene:
• A standout track from the “Love & Chaos” album.
• Released in October, accompanied by a popular dance challenge.
• Boasts a YouTube view (audio) count exceeding 700 thousand.
• Holds the 8th position in the GhanaWeb poll, garnering 2.66% of the votes.
9. “Scar” – Gyakie:
• Collaboration with Jbee, revolving around pain and betrayal.
• Close to 2 million views on YouTube.
• Securing the 9th spot in the GhanaWeb polls, it captured 1.18% of the votes.
10. “Case” – Mr Drew ft Mophty:
• Released during heightened discussions about Mr Drew’s departure from Highly Spiritual Music.
• Addresses the importance of avoiding false narratives.
• Mophty’s smooth and velvety vocals were warmly received, significantly contributing to the song’s rising popularity.
• Over a million views on YouTube after video was released on September 1, 2023
• 10th in GhanaWeb poll with 0.95% of the votes
11. “Likor” – KiDi ft Stonebwoy:
• Delves into the theme of individuals who may never encounter genuine love.
• Triggered dance challenge on TikTok, with over 2.5 million YouTube views.
• Released in August, 11th in GhanaWeb poll with 0.78% of the votes.
12. “Vero” – Kelvyn Boy:
• Released in June 2023, “Vero” became a massive hit.
• Rapper Sarkodie contributed a verse during the Vero song challenge.
• Securing the 12th position in the GhanaWeb poll, it had 0.55% of the votes.
Hundreds of enthusiastic Ghanaians are converging at Akwaaba Village to rally behind Afua Asantewaa in her ambitious quest for a Guinness World Record.
At the stroke of midnight on Monday, December 25, 2023, Asantewaa celebrated crossing the 24-hour mark in her ongoing attempt at the longest singing marathon, aiming to surpass the current record of 105 hours.
Commencing her sing-a-thon at precisely 12:00 AM on Sunday, Asantewaa has set her sights on enduring the musical marathon until December 27, 2023.
The Akwaaba Village has become a vibrant hub of support, witnessing the presence of numerous Ghanaians cheering Asantewaa on toward her record-breaking goal.
Renowned celebrities such as Becca, Kwabena Kwabena, Eno Barony, Kobi Rana, and Nana Ama McBrown have been spotted at the venue, with expectations of more celebrities joining the show of solidarity in the coming days.
On social media platforms, an overwhelming outpouring of support for Afua Asantewaa further amplifies the nationwide backing for her impressive endeavor.
View some images from Akwaaba Village and the comments made on social media below:
Several Ghanaian celebrities, including Nana Ama McBrown, Sista Afia, Clemento Suarez, Cina Soul, OB Amponsah, and Lawyer Nti, have gathered at Akwaaba Village to support entrepreneur Afua Asantewaa in her quest to break the record for the ‘longest singing marathon by an individual.’
In viral online videos, Nana Ama McBrown and Sista Afia are seen energetically boosting Asantewaa’s morale, dancing and singing along with enthusiasm.
The crowd at Akwaaba Village, comprising both celebrities and netizens, adds to the excitement with cheers and active participation.
Afua Asantewaa has already clocked around 30 hours in her singing marathon, aiming to surpass the current Guinness World Singathon record of 105 hours.
The initiative has garnered widespread support on social media, with Vice President Dr. Mahamadu Bawumia among those endorsing and encouraging the singathon contender.
The vice president in a social media post wrote, “Wishing Afua Asantewaa Aduonum all the best as she takes on the challenge of breaking the singathon record set by Indian singer Sunil Waghmare. Your passion and talent shine brightly, and I am confident you’ll definitely make history. Keep shining your heart out. We are with you.”
If all goes according to plan, Afua Asantewaa is predicted to break and eventually reach the world record by Thursday, December 29, 2023.
As reported by myjoyonline.com on December 24, 2023, the Director of the Narcotics Control Commission, Kenneth Adu Amanfoh, allegedly inflicted a deep cut to his estranged wife’s hand in Kwadaso Estate, a suburb of Kumasi, during an attempt to forcefully take his children from her.
During the incident, a bystander intervened and rescued the woman and her children, who subsequently sought refuge in a nearby church.
Recounting the ordeal to Luv News, Mrs. Adu Amanfoh detailed the moment when a black Landcruiser intercepted her car, and armed men compelled her to exit the vehicle and forced her to the ground.
“The four men were all armed, wearing desert security camouflage uniforms, with face masks. They carried pistols and a rifle. It was when Kenneth stepped out that I identified him as my husband.
“They ordered me to get out of the car. When I got out, one of the armed men sat in my car and ordered the children to get out of my car but they said no. He ordered them to get into the Landcruiser but they declined and started crying,” she told JoyNews in the interview.
The armed individuals reportedly tried to separate the children from their mother, creating a chaotic scene that attracted a crowd.
In the midst of the turmoil, Kwame Fosu Appiah, a concerned resident, voiced his disapproval, emphasizing the emotional distress inflicted on the children.
Appiah is said to have confronted Amanfoh, challenging the morality of his actions and urging him to reconsider.
After the exchange, Amanfoh allegedly instructed his men to withdraw, taking Mrs. Amanfo’s phone in the process. Unfortunately, she sustained a cut to herpalmduring the altercation.
The Director of NACOC and his wife have been living separately for a decade, with Mrs. Amanfo asserting that she has been the sole caregiver for their children during this time.
Recent custody demands by Amanfoh culminated in an attempt on Sunday to forcibly take the children, leaving the 12 and 11-year-olds shaken.
In response to the incident, Mrs. Adu Amanfoh has officially lodged a complaint with the Central Police in Kumasi, who have confirmed an ongoing investigation into the matter.
Ghanaian songstress Sefa took center stage at Stonebwoy’s 2023 Bhim Concert, captivating over ten thousand attendees with her daring outfit that prominently showcased her cleavage.
Sefa, a signee of Black Avenue Muzik, donned a green short corset dress adorned with silver glitters, complemented by a pair of Louboutin heels.
The outfit, featuring a cutout below her cleavage, garnered attention and sparked conversations among the audience.
Engaging in lively dance routines, including jumps and wiggles, Sefa’s performance brought even more focus to her exposed chest, leaving a lasting impression on concertgoers.
The ‘E choke’ hitmaker’s outfit has generated mixed reactions on social media, with some dismissing it as a mere “fashion fall,” while others argue that the choice was intentional.
Stonebwoy’s Bhim Concert, witnessed by nearly 40,000 fans nationwide, featured a lineup of diverse artists delivering exhilarating performances, including Jamaican singers Jahmiel and 10tik deep, Fameye, Edem, Mr. Drew, FBS, Kofi Kinaata, Epixode, Larruso, among others.
A decrease in sperm count can significantly reduce the chances of fertilization, posing a growing concern for men globally.
Health professionals identify low sperm count as an underlying issue linked to hormonal imbalances, inherited chromosomal abnormalities, and dilated testicular veins. These conditions can obstruct the passage of sperm, leading to early signs of damage.
While complete absence of sperm is a situation most men want to avoid, research indicates that a sperm count is considered lower than normal when there are fewer than 15 million sperm per milliliter of semen. Despite having a low sperm count, many men can still father a child.
In addition to hormonal or inherited causes, there are common habits and practices that can unknowingly contribute to damage and lower sperm count.
GhanaWeb has compiled a list of these causes and habits based on research, shedding light on factors that individuals might not be aware of.
Tight Boxers:
Most men rather wear tight pants instead of wearing boxers. These tight pants often keep your testicles closer to the body which results in warm temperatures that kill sperm and equally lead to a low sperm count.
Infections:
The most common factor of low sperm count could be associated with infections and these could be sexually transmitted ones.
They often occur in the testicles and can block sperm production or cause an abnormal discharge. Some of these infections could be derived from Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) such as gonorrhea or HIV.
These infections if not properly treated could result in permanent damage to the testis and subsequently lead to infertility.
Varicoceles:
Varicoceles is the swelling of the testis veins which is also a major cause of low sperm count and infertility often found among men.
Varicoceles create an abnormal temperature inside the testis which might kill some sperm or reduce sperm quality. Health professionals however say this could be treated.
Prolonged use of laptops and phones
Another common cause of low sperm count is the persistent use of laptops under one’s lap. Most laptops often generate a heat temperature of up to 70°C while in use.
Owing to this, a rather prolonged use of laptops carried on the laps may cause irreparable damage to a male’s reproductive function.
Health professionals have advised that laptops placed on a table or desk during use. For mobile phones, health professionals advise that it be placed in the back pocket.
Drugs, Steroids and Alcohol
Studies have shown that the excessive use of some legal and illegal drugs, alcohol can have long-lasting effects on male reproductive function.
It’s been found that some anti-inflammatory drugs like Sulfasalazine and other anti-cancer drugs can cause sperm damage.
The use of cocaine, tobacco, marijuana and other illicit drugs also can result in low sperm count.
This story was originally published on April 2, 2021 by GhanaWeb
The discourse surrounding LGBTQ+ will only subside when individuals cease engaging in it; until then, it will remain a prevalent topic of conversation.
Arnold Asamoah-Baidoo, an entertainment journalist, recently joined the discussion on the December 23 episode of United Showbiz, a UTV entertainment program.
Expressing his views on LGBTQ+, he emphasized that while it is a personal choice, individuals should be mindful of the potential consequences associated with such practices.
In support of his stance, Arnold Asamoah-Baidoo referenced biblical teachings during the discussion.
“If LGBTQ+ is the path you have chosen to follow and would be practicing it in your closet, that is up to you. You face your repercussions alone. The point is, because I am a Bible-believing person, they should know the repercussions that come out of this practice are devastating.”
“…In Genesis, when the angels visited Lot, the Bible says all the men in the town rushed to Lot’s house to sleep with the angels. Lot begged to trade the angels with his daughters but they refused. In the end, God made the men blind. That is how critical the repercussions will be for these people”, he explained.
The entertainment analyst discussed how these groups are attempting to force their beliefs on unbelievers by incorporating gay themes into cartoons, TV shows, and motion pictures.
“The most disturbing thing going on is the level of cohesion and how they are trying to infiltrate it in our systems. If you have observed this, in the last couple of years, the movie series that has been released has a gay scene in it.
Even with the cartoons our kids watch, they are trying to inculcate the scene in it. It is very disturbing. Like I said, it’s a personal choice but the children should be considered in terms of the content. They should know the repercussions that come out of this practice is devastating”, he said.
On December 16, 2023, the United Nations Youth Association of Ghana (UNYA-GH) officially inaugurated Dr. Waheed Musah as the Special Envoy for Youth Diplomatic Affairs and Relations at Ghana’s Parliament House.
The appointment ceremony, presided over by Her Ladyship Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo, Chief Justice of the Republic of Ghana, included the swearing-in of Dr. Waheed Musah into his new role.
Dr. Waheed Musah is a highly decorated diplomat and humanitarian scientist who brings a wealth of experience to his new position.
As the Special Envoy for Youth Diplomatic Affairs and Relations for the United Nations Youth Association-Ghana, he holds various roles, including being a moderator, investment analyst, community development expert, project manager, poet, youth development advocate, and peace advocate.
Additionally, he serves as the founder and CEO of the International Humanity Chamber of Commerce (IHH) and holds positions with organizations such as the Acrossfaiths Foundation and American Applied University.
“My commitment is to promote youth development through diplomatic relations by promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion,” Dr. Waheed Musah stated. “And economically empower the youth to challenge them to excel in trade, business, investment, and industrialization in all aspects of life in order to accelerate youth sustainable economic development through partnerships and SDGs for a better world.”
Under the direction of H.E. WH. Kobina Adomadzi Longdon, the United Nations Youth Association-Ghana (UNYA-GH) is the youth branch of the United Nations Association Ghana (UNA-GH), whose mission is to promote, develop, and rally support for United Nations resolutions, programs, and initiatives.
“We believe that people, especially youth everywhere, must be actively involved at both local and global levels of decision-making towards boosting the achievement of the United Nations goals.”
The Youth Government Initiative (YGI), championed by the United Nations Youth Association-Ghana (UNYA-GH), focuses on nurturing a new cadre of patriotic young Ghanaians. Through simulations of Ghana’s governmental branches, along with mentorships, internships, and educational programs about the 1992 Constitution, YGI aims to instill values of ethical legislative leadership, good governance, judicial fairness, democracy, peacebuilding, international diplomacy, and global citizenship. This initiative is a strategic effort by UNYA-GH to foster youth engagement in national development, aligning with the objectives of the Sustainable Development Goals.
Founded in 2011, UNYA-GH has a dedicated mission to empower Ghana’s youth. It educates them on United Nations resolutions, programs, and initiatives, while advocating for their rights and responsibilities. The association also encourages youth participation in fostering universal sustainable peace and development.
As an entity, UNYA-GH maintains affiliations with several significant organizations, including the United Nations Association-Ghana (UNA-GH), the World Federation of United Nations Associations Youth (WFUNA Youth), and collaborates with various UN agencies and Ghanaian government institutions.
In its pursuit of peace and sustainable development at both local and global levels, UNYA-GH is actively expanding its network. It is forging strong partnerships with international development bodies, multinational corporations, embassies, consulates, academic institutions, traditional authorities, civil society organizations, philanthropic entities, and industry leaders. These collaborations are integral to its mission of achieving comprehensive and lasting impact.
Gold Fields Limited has announced its decision to divest its 45 percent shareholding in the Asanko Gold Mine to TSX-listed joint venture partner Galiano Gold.
The total consideration for the transaction amounts to US$170 million. Additionally, Gold Fields will receive a one percent net smelter royalty on future production from the main deposit at Nkran in the Western Region.
The Asanko Mine was a joint venture with Gold Fields and Galiano Gold each owning 45 percent shares, while the Government of Ghana held the remaining 10 percent. Galiano Gold was responsible for managing the mine.
The settlement of the transaction involves an upfront payment, deferred payments, and contingent considerations. The upfront payment of US$85 million will be settled with US$65 million in cash and US$20 million in Galiano shares upon completion of the deal.
Martin Preece, the Interim Chief Executive Officer of Gold Fields, provided the breakdown of the payments in a press release sent to the Ghana News Agency.
“US$25 million on 31 December 2025; US$30 million on 31 December 2026; and US$30 million plus a one per cent net smelter royalty to be paid, once more than 100,000 ounces of gold equivalent is produced from the Nkran deposit”.
He said, “The royalty is capped at a volume of 447, 000 ounces”.
Gold Mine, Gold Fields now holds a 9.8 percent shareholding in Galiano Gold. The share purchase agreement stipulates that Gold Fields’ shareholding in Galiano Gold cannot exceed 19.9 percent.
If the market value of Galiano shares falls short of the required US$20 million, Gold Fields will compensate the difference through an additional cash payment, as stated in the press release.
In response to the divestment, Mr. Preece commented: “We are pleased to have concluded this agreement with Galiano, and it is clear that the committed path forward for the Asanko Mine requires consolidated ownership”.
In order to maximize its chances of success, he stated that Gold Fields was happy to realize value for its holding at this time and to give Galiano flexibility in recapitalizing the Mine and starting mining again.
“Divestment of our interest in Asanko is part of our ongoing disciplined portfolio management process and releases capital for deployment by the Company in line with our other capital allocation priorities.”
The completion of the current transaction is anticipated in the first quarter of 2024, subject to a number of requirements, including regulatory approvals.
The actor Ama Tundra, 31, has stated that she wouldn’t think twice about accepting a marriage proposal from the man she has been seeing for the previous five years.
She made this revelation in an interview that GhanaWeb watched with Deloris Frimpong Manso on The Delay Show.
The attractive actress said she was ready to answer in the affirmative, which led the host to tell her boyfriend, who is still nameless, about it before the show ended.
“On this note, let’s take this opportunity to encourage the man you’ve been dating for five years to propose, given your expressed interest, as five years is a significant period,” suggested the host, affectionately called Delay. “We will come and support you. You’ll make a beautiful bride. You’re very beautiful.”
Amid laughter, Tundra sent a heartfelt message to her boyfriend, saying, “Please say you’ll marry me because I’m ready.”
On the question of why they were still not married, Tundra did not give a definite answer except to say, “We’re praying,” suggesting she was hopeful.
Ama Tundra met her child’s nine-year-old foster father during her time in secondary education. It appears that he has not taken ownership of his actions.
She stated that she doesn’t need anything from the child’s biological father because her current partner has shown her child love.
“I don’t have the contact information of my child’s father. And because of my boyfriend, my child doesn’t lack a father. He treats the child like his own,” said Ama Tundra. “He [the boyfriend] has really been helpful. He is kind and lovely.”
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu acknowledges a “very heavy price” in the Gaza war as the military reports 14 additional soldiers killed, bringing the ground assault’s total to 153.
Saturday marked one of the deadliest days, prompting Netanyahu to assert his forces had “no choice” but to continue the fight.
In Gaza, the health ministry, under Hamas control, reports 166 more deaths in the past day, bringing the total casualties to over 20,000 since October 7, with the majority being women and children, and 54,000 injuries.
Remarking on the latest Israeli troop deaths, Mr Netanyahu said: “This is a difficult morning, after a very difficult day of fighting in Gaza.”
But he said his forces would continue with “full force until the end”, reiterating his goals of eliminating Hamas and ensuring the safe return of hostages held in Gaza.
“Let it be clear: this will be a long war,” the Israeli prime minister added.
The Israeli operation began after Hamas fighters crossed from Gaza into southern Israel on 7 October, killing 1,200 people and taking about 240 hostages.
Israel insists that it takes steps to avoid civilian casualties, and blames Hamas for embedding itself in densely-populated areas.
US President Joe Biden – a key ally of Mr Netanyahu – emphasised the “critical need” to protect civilian lives during a call with the Israeli prime minister on Saturday, the White House said.
Mr Biden told reporters that he had not asked for a ceasefire in the call. Both men believe such a move would benefit Hamas.
On Friday, the UN Security Council approved a resolution demanding large-scale aid deliveries to Gaza – but this, too, stopped short of calling for a ceasefire between the two warring sides.
Talks held in Egypt earlier this week designed to secure a fresh truce between Israel and Hamas have so far failed to deliver results.
A Palestinian official familiar with the ceasefire negotiations told the BBC that Egypt presented a new three-stage plan that would begin with a two-week humanitarian truce – which could be extended – during which Hamas would release 40 hostages and Israel would release 120 Palestinian prisoners.
This stage would be followed by the formation of an independent body to deal with humanitarian relief and reconstruction, as well as a comprehensive ceasefire and an exchange of prisoners.
Image caption,Many Palestinians have been forced to flee northern Gaza to the territory’s south
The Israeli military has kept up its bombing campaign in Gaza – ordering civilians to flee. The UN said the latest evacuation order affected 150,000 people in the middle of the territory.
On Saturday, Israel said 700 Palestinian militants had been arrested during its ground offensive to date.
It also said one of its fighter jets had killed Hassah Atrash, a man it accused of smuggling weapons into Gaza to arm Hamas. There has been no confirmation from Hamas.
The Israeli military has said it has almost full operational control of the north of the Gaza Strip, and is stepping up operations elsewhere.
A spokesman has said troops are entering new Hamas strongholds in southern areas.
Briefing his cabinet on Sunday, Mr Netanyahu denied suggestions the US president had persuaded him against further expanding his military operation.
The Wall Street Journal had reported that Mr Netanyahu had been talked out of attacking Hamas’s ally in Lebanon, the Hezbollah group.
A government spokesperson told the BBC “the situation in the north… is intolerable” and that Israel was “trying to deter Hezbollah from dragging us into a war”.
“We will continue making the necessary preparations to repel this threat from the northern border,” he added.
In an extraordinary medical event, a woman in the United States with the uncommon condition of having two uteruses gave birth on two consecutive days, marking a rare “one in a million” pregnancy that involved 20 hours of labor.
Kelsey Hatcher, aged 32, experienced the unique joy of welcoming a daughter on Tuesday, followed by the birth of another daughter on Wednesday, both at the University of Alabama at Birmingham Hospital.
Celebrating this remarkable occurrence, Ms. Hatcher took to social media to announce the birth of her “miracle babies,” praising the medical team for their outstanding work.
The newborns are fraternal twins, uniquely born on different days, a rarity in itself.
Following the unexpected but joyous events, Ms. Hatcher shared that her family had returned home, ready to celebrate the holiday season. Initially, she had anticipated a Christmas delivery.
A UAB obstetrician spoke about the uniqueness of this case, noting that such events are so rare that many in the field may never encounter them in their entire careers.
Diagnosed with a double uterus, known medically as uterus didelphys, at the age of 17, Ms. Hatcher was part of a small group, as this condition affects only 0.3% of women.
Becoming pregnant in both uteruses simultaneously, known as a dicavitary pregnancy, is an even more extraordinary occurrence, with the UAB citing the odds as “one in a million.”
Instances like these are exceedingly rare worldwide. In a similar case reported in 2019, a woman in Bangladesh gave birth to twins almost a month after having a premature baby, a story shared with the BBC by a local doctor.
Prior to this remarkable pregnancy, Ms. Hatcher had three healthy pregnancies. This time, she initially believed she was pregnant in just one uterus until a routine ultrasound unexpectedly revealed a second baby in the other uterus.
“I gasped… We just could not believe it,” she recalled.
She went on to document her unusual journey on Instagram. One update at 38 weeks asked: “What the heck?! HOW have we made it this far?!”
Image caption,Kelsey, pictured here with her newborns and husband Caleb, first thought she was pregnant in only one womb
The University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) characterized Ms. Hatcher’s pregnancy as standard, despite its unique nature.
Professor Richard Davis, who supervised the birth, noted that each infant benefited from having its own uterus, providing ample room for growth and development, a contrast to normal twin pregnancies.
Ms. Hatcher’s labor, initiated at 39 weeks, necessitated heightened vigilance and documentation in the hospital, including increased staff involvement.
Dr. Shweta Patel from UAB’s obstetrics and gynecology department remarked that this aspect was the most unconventional in Ms. Hatcher’s situation.
According to Dr. Patel, the medical team had limited specific guidelines or data to reference, compelling them to rely on their general expertise in standard pregnancies.
She confirmed that the babies truly possessed a “mind of their own” and were born using distinct techniques.
On December 19, at approximately 19:45 local time, Roxi was born vaginally. Over ten hours later, Rebel, the second, arrived via C-section.
According to Prof. Davis, the girls might be referred to as fraternal twins, a term that describes babies that are created from individual eggs that are fertilized by individual sperm.
“At the end of the day, it was two babies in one belly at the same time,” he said. “They just had different apartments.”
An explosion at a nickel plant on Sulawesi island, Indonesia, claimed the lives of at least 13 workers and left dozens injured, with some in critical condition.
The plant, funded by Chinese investment, witnessed the explosion during repair work on a furnace, causing a flammable liquid to ignite and triggering blasts in nearby oxygen tanks.
Indonesia, a leading global nickel producer crucial for electric car batteries and stainless steel, faced subsequent explosions due to the proximity of multiple oxygen tanks.
The fire was eventually extinguished, and the Morowali Industrial Park (IMIP), a Chinese-owned nickel enterprise, has pledged to cover treatment costs for the victims.
The incident, which resulted in serious injuries to nearly half of the foreign workers, underscores the challenges in the nickel industry.
As China intensifies its efforts to develop an affordable electric vehicle sector, its investment in Indonesian nickel plants has surged.
This metal has become increasingly vital to Indonesia’s economy, rich in natural resources. Following the Indonesian government’s 2020 ban on exporting unprocessed ore, there has been a significant influx of foreign investment, leading to a rapid increase in mining activities in the nation’s more isolated areas.
This surge in production, however, has been marred by a series of fatal accidents. Earlier in the year, a Chinese and an Indonesian worker lost their lives at a nickel plant within the same industrial complex during a riot that erupted amidst a worker protest.
In a separate incident a few months prior, a fire at this plant resulted in the death of one worker and injuries to six others.
These repeated incidents have heightened concerns about the safety standards at facilities financed and operated by Chinese firms, raising questions about worker welfare and operational protocols in this rapidly expanding industry.
The Israeli military has committed to continuing its “protracted” and “difficult” operation in Gaza, expanding ground operations in both the southern and northern Gaza Strip.
Despite calls for a ceasefire and humanitarian truce, Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that the war will persist until all Israeli goals are achieved.
The US, while emphasizing the critical need to protect civilians, has not requested a ceasefire.
The UN Security Council approved a resolution for large-scale aid deliveries to Gaza but did not explicitly call for a ceasefire.
Talks in Egypt for a new truce have yet to yield results.
The Hamas-run health ministry says more than 20,000 people have been killed and 54,000 injured in Gaza since the war began. Most of the dead are women and children, Hamas says.
Israel says it takes steps to avoid civilian casualties, and blames Hamas for embedding itself in densely-populated areas.
Meanwhile, the IDF has announced that 14 of its soldiers have been killed in fighting in Gaza since Friday, bringing the total to more than 150.
Responding to the deaths, Mr Netanyahu said on Sunday that the war was exacting a “very heavy price” on Israel, but that there was “no choice but to keep fighting”.
Israel says 700 Palestinian militants have been arrested since it launched its military operation and invasion of Gaza with the aim of eliminating Hamas.
The Israeli operation began after Hamas fighters crossed from Gaza into southern Israel on 7 October, killing 1,200 people and taking about 240 hostages.
Image caption,Many Palestinians have been forced to flee northern Gaza to the territory’s south
Mr Netanyahu and Mr Biden discussed Israel’s operation in Gaza in a phone call on Saturday.
Mr Biden “emphasised the critical need to protect the civilian population including those supporting the humanitarian aid operation, and the importance of allowing civilians to move safely away from areas of ongoing fighting”, the White House said.
Mr Netanyahu “made it clear that Israel would continue the war until all of its goals have been achieved”, the Israeli PM’s office said.
In its update on Sunday, the Hamas-run health ministry said at least 166 people had been killed and 384 injured in the previous 24 hours.
The Israeli military has kept up its bombing campaign in Gaza – ordering civilians to flee.
On Saturday, it said one of its fighter jets had killed Hassah Atrash, a man it accused of smuggling weapons into Gaza to arm Hamas. There was no confirmation from Hamas.
The Israeli military has said it has almost full operational control of the north of the Gaza Strip, and is stepping up operations in the south.
The UN said the latest evacuation order affected 150,000 people in the middle of the territory.
His contributions extended to choreography for well-known songs and music videos, including Flowking Stone’s ‘Rapping Drums,’ M.anifest’s ‘No Shortcut to Heaven,’ and Kuami Eugene’s ‘Turn Up.’
In addition to his work in the music industry, Jerry One directed choreography for various TV commercials, including notable ones for ‘Savannah Paint’ and Malta Guinness.
Suzanne Emma, the former wife of Emeka Ike, has provided additional insights into the reasons behind their divorce.
According to her, Emeka Ike did not seek official recognition of their marriage from the registry due to his nature of marrying various women for the purpose of gaining citizenship in foreign countries.
“We were only married traditionally. WE never did a formal one of going to the registry because he always has one woman out there who wants to give him American papers or who wants to give him this paper and that paper. But I never consented to it because I will always say you go there and you marry this women for papers infront of God and the ministers, and you are not saying this is fake. This is on paper, “Madam Suzanne expressed.
She alleged that Emeka Ike and his family members did not present anything on the marriage list provided to them.
“They never blessed us. It was his older sister’s husband who stood in. And, you know, the wine changing and blessings and all that were done. All through when we had collected the list from my uncle and given it to him. And we were preparing on our side, and I was always calling him, ‘Oh, are you, you know, in tune with your family on the list to get everything?’ His family came empty-handed; they didn’t bring anything. Even my family would always laugh at me at my back and say, ‘I married myself,” she stated.
In his concluding remarks, Awni bids “peace out” to his initial 1,000 followers, a poignant farewell as he exits the frame of his video. Tragically, within just over a year, Awni’s life is cut short, making him one of the earliest Palestinian child casualties in the conflict.
His family’s home was tragically targeted in an Israeli airstrike on October 7, a harrowing event occurring shortly after a significant escalation of violence when Hamas forces crossed into Israel.
This video, once a beacon of his youthful dreams, has since accumulated millions of views. His silent gameplay videos also attract vast audiences, bringing his YouTube channel close to 1.5 million subscribers.
Remembered fondly by his aunt, Ala’a, as a cheerful and self-assured boy, and affectionately dubbed “engineer Awni” by another relative for his passion for computers, he has posthumously become an emblematic figure. His story echoes the broader narrative of lost youth in the Gaza Strip.
A comment on his video encapsulates a collective sentiment of sorrow and regret: “Please forgive us. I wish we knew you before you died,” a heartbreaking tribute to a young life ended too soon.
“So now folks, let me introduce myself: I am a Palestinian from Gaza, aged 12 years old. The aim of this channel is to reach 100,000 subscribers, or 500,000, or one million,” he says.
According to the health ministry in Gaza, which is administered by Hamas, the conflict has resulted in over 20,000 fatalities, with more than a third being children. Unicef has starkly labeled the region as the world’s most perilous environment for children.
Ala’a, recalling the day of the Hamas offensive and Israel’s subsequent response, feared the worst for her family’s residence in Gaza City. Her apprehensions turned into a grim reality that evening, around 20:20, as she received a flurry of messages informing her that Awni’s family home had been struck.
The residence, a three-storey building located in the Zeitoun area, was home to different branches of the family on each level. Awni resided there with his parents, two elder sisters, and two younger brothers.
Amnesty International, a human rights organization, also recorded the details of this strike in October.
Image caption,Awni (right) with his sisters and brothers, who were all killed
“Two bombs fell suddenly on top of the building and destroyed it. My wife and I were lucky to survive because we were staying on the top floor,” Awni’s uncle Mohammed said.
Both he and a neighbour said they had received no warning. “It was sudden, boom,” the neighbour said.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) did not comment on this specific strike but said it was striking military targets and that Hamas had a “documented practice of operating from nearby, underneath and within densely populated areas”.
It said: “The IDF’s strikes on military targets are subject to relevant provisions of international law, including the taking of feasible precautions and after an assessment that the expected incidental damage to civilians and civilian property is not excessive in relation to the expected military advantage from the attack.”
It added that the IDF “regrets any harm caused to civilians or civilian property as a result of its operations, and examines all its operations in order to learn and improve and ensure all activity was in accordance with operational procedures and the law”.
‘He wanted followers and fans’
Ala’a didn’t want to believe the messages she was receiving. But after connecting to the wi-fi, she saw that a close friend of the family had shared a photo of her brother on social media with the caption: “Rest in peace.” She ran to the hospital.
“They asked me to see the bodies but my husband refused… he wanted me to remember their beautiful faces when they were alive,” she says in a Facebook message, sent from the south of Gaza, where she is now displaced.
Ala’a says 15 members of her family were killed that night, among them Awni.
She describes him as being a calm, helpful boy. His dad was a computer engineer and Ala’a says that for as long as she can remember, Awni would copy his father, pulling laptops apart and then trying to piece them back together.
In photos Awni shared on his own Facebook page, he stands in front of a blackboard holding up a computer motherboard to fellow students, as he leads a technology lesson organised as part of a “little teachers” scheme. Pictures published on his school’s Facebook page show him winning numerous awards.
Shortly after his death, one of his teachers shared a photo with Awni, describing the boy’s “ever-lasting smile”.
Image caption,Awni and his teacher
Outside of school, Ala’a says Awni loved spending time with his family. On one “very wonderful night”, Ala’a says she watched a film with Awni and his siblings, sharing crisps and chocolates.
The last time she saw him was at a family breakfast three weeks before his death, where she looked at her nephew and said: “Awni is becoming a man.”
Mostly, Awni loved computers and gaming, and he idolised the YouTubers who made careers out of his hobby.
“He wanted to be like them – to have followers and fans,” Ala’a says.
Awni started his channel in June 2020. His videos show him playing Pro Evolution Soccer, the car racing game Blur and the first-person shooting game Counter-Strike.
Long captions give details of the games, the companies that made them and the dates of their release.
In a video of Awni with an uncle, the pair promise a “special” range of content on the channel, declaring in unison: “It will be a blast.”
They grin and gesticulate as they take it in turns to talk. They say they plan to expand the channel to include vlogs and interviews.
Image caption,Awni was an ambitious boy who asked lots of questions, family members say
Ashraf Eldous, a distant relative of Awni who works as a programmer and helps run several YouTube channels, says the teenager would frequently contact him asking for advice.
In messages from August 2022, shared with the BBC, Awni addresses “brother Ashraf” as he asks for YouTube tips. He would even take his father’s phone in secret to ask for advice, Ashraf recalls.
Ashraf says the last time he spoke to Awni’s father, he was told: “Take care of Awni. Answer his questions. He’s ambitious.”
“His ambition was to be my competitor or colleague,” Ashraf says. “He created a YouTube channel. It wasn’t that big, it didn’t have any big views. Every start-up is hard at the beginning.”
But after Awni’s death in October, the views mounted when his fledgling channel caught the attention of established YouTubers, including Kuwaiti gamer AboFlah.
In an emotional video now viewed almost nine million times, AboFlah cries and walks away from the camera.
He has just discovered messages Awni had sent him on social media.
One of those message says: “Nothing compares to Palestine’s winter in Gaza; the atmosphere is legendary. We’re drinking sahlab [a sweetened milk drink]. It’s so good. We’re also eating roasted chestnuts. I hope you come to Palestine. Much love.”
In another, Awni writes to AboFlah: “You’re a legend and a role model.”
In the video, as AboFlah weeps, he says: “It’s such a shame for this child to die… This child is one of many others who are even younger than him. If God wills it, they’ll be birds of paradise.”
“What you see is from the heart. I could not stop my tears,” AboFlah tells the BBC, reflecting on the video he uploaded in October.
“It was very touching to hear that he looked up to me as a role model.”
Asked why he thinks Awni has made such a big impact, AboFlah says: “Fans see themselves in Awni. We are all Awni.”
The teenager’s entire family – his four brothers and sisters and mother and father – were killed alongside him. But his surviving relatives say they are proud of the fame he has found after death.
“It’s a gift from God that so many people around the world love Awni,” says Ala’a.
“He used to talk about it enthusiastically, about his channel. He is more happy in heaven now.”
The United Kingdom is gearing up to dispatch a warship to Guyana as a demonstration of both diplomatic and military support for the former British colony, according to BBC sources.
This move comes in response to renewed claims by neighboring Venezuela over a disputed part of Guyanese territory, known for its abundant oil and mineral resources.
The Ministry of Defence has confirmed that HMS Trent, an offshore patrol vessel originally tasked with drug-smuggling interdiction in the Caribbean, will engage in joint exercises with Guyana after the Christmas season.
The decision to redirect HMS Trent was prompted by Venezuela’s recent threats to annex the Essequibo region of Guyana, heightening concerns of a potential invasion and the specter of South America’s first interstate war since the Falklands Conflict in 1982.
As South America’s sole English-speaking nation and a member of the Commonwealth, Guyana finds itself at the center of this territorial dispute.
Venezuela has persistently asserted ownership over Essequibo, a sprawling 61,000 square mile region that encompasses a significant portion of Guyana. Notably rich in gold, diamonds, bauxite, and with substantial offshore oil deposits, the region has become a focal point of contention between the two nations.
While Guyana’s economy is experiencing rapid growth, Venezuela faces severe economic challenges. President Nicolas Maduro of Venezuela conducted a controversial referendum on December 3 to reaffirm popular support for the country’s claim to Essequibo, a move widely contested. Despite challenges to the results, Maduro proceeded to publish new maps and legislation, officially incorporating Essequibo into Venezuela. He appointed a new governor, offered identity cards to residents, and directed the state oil company to issue extraction licenses in the disputed region.
Following a meeting with Guyana’s President Irfaan Ali, Maduro committed to avoiding the use of force. However, he maintains his territorial claim, and both nations remain in disagreement over the legal resolution of the border dispute.
This heightened tension has led the Lloyd’s insurance market in London to designate Guyana as one of the riskiest shipping zones, reflecting the uncertainty and potential hazards arising from the ongoing territorial dispute.
A Ministry of Defence spokesperson told the BBC: “HMS Trent will visit regional ally and Commonwealth partner Guyana later this month as part of a series of engagements in the region during her Atlantic Patrol Task deployment.”
HMS Trent has a crew of 65, a top speed of 24 knots and a range of 5,000 nautical miles.
It is armed with 30mm cannon and a contingent of Royal Marines. It can also deploy Merlin helicopters and unmanned aircraft.
HMS Trent left its home port of Gibraltar in early December and is currently alongside in Bridgetown, Barbados for Christmas.
The warship is expected to anchor off the capital of Guyana, Georgetown, and conduct visits, joint activities and training with the country’s navy and other allies. It cannot go alongside because the port is too shallow.
The vessel is mainly used for tackling piracy and smuggling, protecting fisheries, counterterrorism, providing humanitarian aid, and search and rescue operations, but the Royal Navy says it is also designed for border patrols and defence diplomacy.
The decision to send HMS Trent to Guyana is part of a growing UK effort to show international diplomatic support for Guyana.
Image caption,Irfaan Ali, President of Guyana (left), and Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro have agreed not to use force but tensions remain
This week the Foreign Secretary Lord Cameron said the UK would “continue to work with partners in the region to ensure the territorial integrity of Guyana is upheld and prevent escalation”.
David Rutley, the Foreign Office Minister for the Americas, visited Georgetown on 18 December, the first G7 representative to do so since Venezuela renewed its claim.
He promised Guyana the UK’s “unequivocal backing” and welcomed Venezuela’s promise to avoid using force.
Mr Rutley continued: “The border issue has been settled for over 120 years. Sovereign borders must be respected wherever they are in the world.
“The UK will continue to work with partners in the region, as well as through international bodies, to ensure the territorial integrity of Guyana is upheld.”
Venezuela’s Foreign Minister, Yvan Gil, criticised the visit, accusing the UK of destabilising the region.
In a post on X – formerly Twitter – he said: “The former invading and enslaving empire, which illegally occupied the territory of Guayana Esequiba and acted in a skilful and sneaky manner against the interests of Venezuela, insists on intervening in a territorial controversy that they themselves generated.”
Venezuela disputes the border which was established under an international agreement in 1899.
Guyana was formerly known as British Guiana before it secured its independence in 1966.
In response to recent interviews granted by Nigerian actor Emeka Ike, detailing what he deems as the unusual circumstances leading to their divorce, his ex-wife, Suzanne Emma, has stepped forward to present her side of the story.
Contrary to Emeka’s narrative, Suzanne Emma sheds light on previously unaddressed aspects of their divorce.
She discloses enduring various forms of abuse, including being prohibited from pursuing employment to support herself, coupled with instances of both physical and mental mistreatment.
“It started off us mental torture. It started off as psychological. It started off as financial abuse because I was not allowed to work. He didn’t allow me to work,” she revealed.
In 2015, Suzanne filed for divorce, alleging enduring physical and verbal abuse throughout her marriage with Nigerian actor Emeka Ike. Their 14-year union was officially dissolved in March 2017 by a Customary Court in Lagos Island, South-west Nigeria. The former couple shares four children.
Maintaining silence since the tumultuous divorce, Suzanne recently spoke out in an interview with media personality Chude Jideonwo, marking her first public statement on the matter.
This decision to address the controversies surrounding her marriage comes in response to Emeka Ike’s earlier interview with Channels, where he asserted losing everything due to allegations of domestic abuse.
On December 23, 2023, the Serwaa Amihere Foundation illuminated the lives of thousands of widows in Accra, spreading joy at a heartwarming Christmas party.
Donating various essentials, including bags of rice, assorted food items, and textiles, the foundation, led by Ms. Serwaa Amihere, an award-winning broadcast journalist and news anchor, created a festive atmosphere.
The founder and her celebrity friends engaged warmly with the widows, leaving an indelible mark.
Established in 2019, the Serwaa Amihere Foundation is a charitable NGO dedicated to alleviating the struggles of the destitute, particularly women.
Over the years, it has extended support to numerous widows, offering financial aid for business startups among other forms of assistance.
It is high time Serwaa Amihere receives recognition and commendation from the international community and the people of Ghana for the impactful projects undertaken through her foundation.
The society continues to reap the benefits of her philanthropic endeavors, warranting commendation and encouragement for further contributions.
Although Ama Tundra considers her posterior to be “normal,” she is aware that not everyone shares her opinion.
She claims that when she walks into the public eye and attracts attention, she realizes how curvaceous her figure is.
“I see my backside as normal. It’s only when I walk through a crowd that I realize it is huge. All eyes are on me,” she said.
In a December 23, 2023, broadcast of The Delay Show, Ama Tundra, a name given to her by a film director, expressed a sense of self-assurance and pride in her identity. The actress shared that the name originated from a playful acknowledgment of her notable backside, which has since become a defining aspect of her persona.
“I got the name Ama Tundra from one of the directors,” she recalled. “We were on set when he asked about my day of birth, and I replied with ‘Ama.’ He then remarked that my backside could be likened to a (Toyota) Tundra, so he gave me the name.”
Asked if she has always had that figure, Ama Tundra responded: “I’ve always had a substantial backside. Even during my time in Senior High School (SHS), they nicknamed me ‘Bottom Power’ due to the size of my behind.”
“When they call me ‘Bottom Power,’ I respond with ‘shegee.’
On Saturday, a drone launched from Iran struck a chemical tanker in the Indian Ocean, as confirmed by the U.S. military. The fire on the Chem Pluto was successfully extinguished, and fortunately, no casualties were reported.
While Iran has not provided any comments on the incident, recent actions by Houthi rebels in Yemen, backed by Iran, indicate the use of drones and rockets to target vessels in the Red Sea. This occurrence marks the first of its kind at such a distance, according to maritime security firm Ambrey.
The Chem Pluto, reportedly en route from Saudi Arabia to India, has been linked to Israel by the same security company.
The Houthis, engaged in conflict with Israel over Gaza, have claimed responsibility for targeting vessels associated with Israel.
The United States has publicly asserted that the Chem Pluto was struck by “a one-way attack drone fired from Iran.” This marks the first time the U.S. has openly accused Iran of directly targeting a ship. In the past, the U.S. has accused Iran of significant involvement in planning operations against commercial vessels in the Red Sea, a charge Tehran consistently denies.
Despite denials, Iran’s Revolutionary Guards have issued a warning, suggesting the potential closure of waterways beyond the Red Sea if they perceive ongoing “crimes” committed by America and its allies in Gaza.
The Pentagon statement said the Chem Pluto was “a Liberia-flagged, Japanese-owned, and Netherlands-operated chemical tanker”.
It was struck “200 nautical miles (370km) from the coast of India” at 10:00 local time (06:00 GMT).
The hit caused structural damage to the tanker and water was taken onboard.
The incident took place 200 nautical miles south-west of the city of Veraval in India’s Gujarat state, according to United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO).
Ambrey said the event fell within an area the firm considered a “heightened threat area” for Iranian drones.
The Indian navy sent an aircraft and warships to offer assistance.
In a separate development, the US Central Command (CENTCOM) said that on Saturday “two Houthi anti-ship ballistic missiles were fired into international shipping lanes in the Southern Red Sea from Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen. No ships reported being impacted by the ballistic missiles”.
It also said the USS Laboon warship patrolling the area “shot down four unmanned aerial drones originating from Houthi-controlled areas in Yemen that were inbound” to the American vessel.
Later that day, a crude oil tanker reported being hit by a Houthi drone in the southern Red Sea, while another tanker saw a near miss.
Many large global shipping groups have suspended operations in the Red Sea due to the increased risk of attacks.
In a devastating turn of events, Laura Lynch, a co-founder of the renowned US country music band, the Dixie Chicks, has lost her life at the age of 65 in a car crash.
The Texas Department of Public Safety reported that the collision occurred near El Paso on Friday, resulting in her untimely demise.
Expressing their profound grief, the current members of the band shared their shock and sorrow in a post on Instagram.
The tragic incident marks the end of an era for the Dixie Chicks, with Lynch’s contributions to the group remembered as a significant part of their musical legacy.
“We hold a special place in our hearts for the time we spent playing music, laughing and travelling together.
“Laura was a bright light…her infectious energy and humour gave a spark to the early days of our band.
“Laura had a gift for design, a love of all things Texas and was instrumental in the early success of the band.
“Her undeniable talents helped propel us beyond busking on street corners to stages all across Texas and the mid-West,” the band said, adding that their thoughts were with Laura’s “family and loved ones”.
Originally formed in Dallas, Texas, in 1989, the band known as the Dixie Chicks was established by co-founders Laura Lynch, who served as a bassist and later as a vocalist, Robin Lynn Macy, a vocalist and guitarist, and the talented Erwin sisters, Martie and Emily, both multi-instrumentalists.
Their music, a blend of country and bluegrass, was performed at various festivals and venues, with the band also engaging in busking. Lynch, a pivotal member, contributed to the band until 1995, during which time the Dixie Chicks released three albums: “Thank Heavens for Dale Evans,” “Little Ol’ Cowgirl,” and “Shouldn’t a Told You That.”
It wasn’t until 1998, with the release of their album “Wide Open Spaces,” that the band achieved significant commercial success.
In a move reflecting social and cultural sensitivity, the band, three years ago, changed its name to The Chicks.
This decision came in response to criticism that the term “Dixie” carried associations with the history of slavery in the United States.
In a revealing conversation with media personality Chude Jideonwo, Michael Ike, son of Emeka Ike, delved into the complexities of his parents’ tumultuous separation and divorce.
Michael recounted experiencing threatening behavior from his father, including an incident where Emeka Ike allegedly asked his son to take his own life in a voice note.
This admission comes amidst ongoing reports of a dispute between Emeka Ike and his ex-wife, where the actor has consistently denied allegations of domestic abuse.
Emeka has spoken about the personal toll of the divorce, claiming to have lost 80% of his assets. However, Michael portrayed his father in a different light, labeling him as deceitful and abusive.
Michael also shared that his father had vehemently opposed his aspirations in music, going as far as to claim that music mogul Don Jazzy would not support him.
Expressing a desire to distance himself, Michael stated that he no longer seeks anything from his father.
These revelations follow a recent interview in which Emeka Ike cautioned his estranged wife against speaking about him, hinting at potentially more hidden conflicts. This family saga continues to unfold in the public eye, highlighting the strained relationship between father and son.
Controversial marriage counsellor and pastor, Counsellor Charlotte Oduro, has asserted her stance against public prophecies, declaring her intention to address individuals who prophesy about her in public.
According to her, prophecy should be a private matter, discussed and shared directly with the person involved, rather than being made public for others to know.
Counsellor Oduro made this declaration during a discussion on the entertainment show “United Showbiz,” hosted on UTV. Her firm position emphasizes the importance of maintaining the privacy of prophetic messages, diverging from the common practice of publicizing such revelations.
“Let’s say you saw something about me in your dream, and you shared it on social media with my name tagged to the prophecy, you should be careful because laws exist. You dare not make that mistake by sharing a prophecy in public with my name attached to it. It is my private life and I would want to keep it that way. If you have anything to tell me, with all due respect, you should get to me. If you share it in public, I will deal with you”, she said.
The concept of posting details of people’s personal lives on social media was refuted by Reverend Charlotte Oduro.
She sees that as a means of profit, particularly in cases where the individual in question is well-known.
If anything has to do with prophecies, she advised everyone to speak with someone directly rather than posting it on social media.
“You know Arnold, so if you have a prophecy for him, you should get his contact and speak to him rather than saying it in public. We know that if Arnold’s name is mentioned, bloggers will pick it up. God is not in a rush to give prophecies. If you are ready to get someone’s contact, you will surely get it. God is not in a rush for anything. God has time for everything.
Nigeria, with its 36 states and one federal capital territory, each further divided into 774 local government areas, holds immense economic potential.
Evans Osabuohien, an Economics Professor at Covenant University, shares valuable perspectives on how these states can contribute to Nigeria’s economic prowess, promoting inclusive growth and sustainable development.
Nigeria’s Vast Landscape: A Closer Look at the Top 10 Largest States
With a population approaching 200 million, Nigeria stands as Africa’s most populous nation. Exploring the diversity within its vast expanse, here’s a glimpse into the ten largest states in Nigeria, accompanied by key facts that shed light on their significance in the nation’s economic landscape.
Kebbi State – 36,800 km²
Date created: 27 August 1991
Capital: Birnin Kebbi
Total area: 36,800 km²
Kebbi State is bordered by Sokoto State, Niger State, Zamfara State, Dosso Region in the Republic of Niger and the nation of Benin. It has 21 Local Government Areas.
Kebbi is the tenth largest state in the region and the 22nd most populous, with an estimated population of 4.4 million people in 2016. It is known as the “Equity Land.”
9. Kwara State – 36,825 km²
Date created: 27 May 1967
Capital: Ilorin
Total area: 36,825 km²
Kwara is located within the North Central geopolitical zone, commonly referred to as the Middle Belt. It has 16 Local Government Areas. They include Asa, Baruten, Edu, Ekiti, Ifelodun, Ilorin East, Ilorin South, Ilorin West, Irepodun, Isin, Kaiama, Moro, Offa, Oke Ero, Oyun, and Pategi.
Kwara is the sixth-least populous state, with an estimated population of 3.2 million people in 2016.
Geographically, it is divided into two ecoregions: the West Sudanian savanna to the east and the Guinean forest-savanna mosaic ecoregion to the west.
8. Adamawa State – 36,917 km²
Date created: 27 August 1991
Capital: Yola
Total area: 36,917 km²
The Borno borders Adamawa State on the northwest, Gombe on the west, and Taraba on the southwest. Its eastern border forms the national eastern border with Cameroon. It has 21 Local Government Areas.
They include: Demsa, Fufore, Ganye, Girei, Gombi, Guyuk, Hong, Jada, Lamurde, Madagali, Maiha, Mayo-Belwa, Michika, Mubi North, Mubi South, Numan, Shelleng, Song, Toungo, Yola North, and Yola South.
Adamawa is the thirteenth least populated in population, with an estimated 4.25 million residents as of 2016. It also has a diverse religious community, with roughly 55% Sunni Muslims, 30% Christians, and 15% followers of traditional ethnic religions.
7. Zamfara State – 39,762 km²
Date created: 1 October 1996
Capital: Gusau
Total area: 39,762 km²
Zamfara is a state in northwestern Nigeria with a predominantly Hausa and Fulani population. It has fourteen Local Government Areas.
They include: Anka, Bakura, Birnin Magaji/Kiyaw, Bukkuyum, Bungudu, Tsafe, Gummi, Gusau, Kaura Namoda, Maradun, Maru, Shinkafi, Talata Mafara, and Zurmi.
It has a population of 9,278,873, according to the 2006 census.
The state’s primary industries and main sources of revenue are agriculture and gold mining. More than 80% of the population works in agriculture.
6. Yobe State – 45,502 km²
Date created: 27 August 1991
Capital: Damaturu
Total area: 45,502 km² Yobe State borders four states: Bauchi, Borno, Gombe, and Jigawa State.
In addition, it borders the Diffa Region and the Zinder Region to the north of the Republic of Niger.
It has seventeen Local Government Areas. They include: Bade, Bursari, Damaturu, Geidam, Gujba, Gulani, Fika, Fune, Jakusko, Karasuwa, Machina, Nangere, Nguru, Potiskum, Tarmuwa, Yunusari, and Yusufari. Yobe is a state that is both rich in mineral reserves like gypsum and kaolin and is also an agricultural state.
Groundnuts, beans, cotton, gum arabic, and gum arabic are among the state’s agricultural products.
5. Bauchi State – 45,893 km²
Date created: 3 February 1976
Capital: Bauchi
Total area: 45,893 km²
The state is bordered by seven states: Kano and Jigawa on the north, Taraba and Plateau on the south, Gombe and Yobe on the east, and Kaduna on the west. It has twenty Local Government Areas.
According to 2016 estimates, the population of Bauchi State was over 6,530,000, making it the ninth most populous country. Livestock and crops like tomatoes, yams, cotton, groundnuts, and millet are a part of its economy.
4. Kaduna State – 46,053 km²
Date created: 27 May 1967
Capital: Kaduna
Total area: 46,053 km² Kaduna State is a state in northern Nigeria.
It is the third most populous state in the country, with numerous educational institutions of importance, such as Ahmadu Bello University. It has twenty-three Local Government Areas.
Total area: 54,473 km² Taraba State is bordered in the west by Nasarawa State and Benue State, in the northwest by Plateau State, in the north by Bauchi State and Gombe State, in the northeast by Adamawa State, in the east and south by Cameroon.
It has sixteen Local Government Areas. They include: Ardo Kola, Bali, Donga, Gashaka, Gassol, Ibi, Jalingo, Karim Lamido, Kurmi, Lau, Sardauna, Takum, Ussa, Wukari, Yorro, and Zing.
2. Borno State – 70,898 km²
Date created: 3 February 1976
Capital: Maiduguri
Total area: 70,898 km²
Borno is the second biggest state in Nigeria. It has twenty-seven Local Government Areas.
As of 2016, the state’s population was predicted to be 5.86 million, making it the ninth most populated state. In Borno State, many people practise Islam, and an equal number practise Christianity and other religions.
1. Niger State – 76,363 km²
Date created: 3 February 1976
Capital: Minna
Total area: 76,363 km²
In the expansive landscape of Nigeria, the title of the largest state is claimed by Niger State, situated in the country’s north-central region. The state is organized into three political zones, denoted as A, B, and C, and encompasses a total of twenty-five Local Government Areas.
These Local Government Areas are diverse, including Agaie, Agwara, Bida, Borgu, Bosso, Chanchaga, Edati, Gbako, Gurara, Katcha, Kontagora, Lapai, Lavun, Magama, Mariga, Mashegu, Mokwa, Munya, Paikoro, Rafi, Rijau, Shiroro, Suleja, Tafa, and Wushishi.
In a conversation with Evans Osabuohien, an Economics Professor at Covenant University and an esteemed researcher, the importance of judiciously utilizing land as an economic resource in Niger State was underscored. Professor Osabuohien emphasized that effective land use is pivotal for the state’s prosperity.
Contrary to the assumption that a larger landmass guarantees greater economic productivity, Professor Osabuohien pointed out that size alone does not determine economic success. Drawing a comparison with Lagos State, the smallest in the country yet economically potent, he highlighted that many of the top ten largest states in terms of landmass do not feature prominently among the top states in GDP or economic empowerment.
At just 41 years old, Blitz Bazawule, the director of the latest film adaptation of Alice Walker’s acclaimed novel, The Color Purple, is a true renaissance man.
Hailing from Ghana, Bazawule has left an indelible mark on the creative landscape, having co-directed a film for Beyoncé, authored a novel, showcased his musical talents globally, and even set a record on Netflix.
His most recent venture takes on the formidable task of translating the powerful, Pulitzer Prize-winning narrative of The Color Purple into a musical film.
The story revolves around a young black woman navigating the challenges of racism and patriarchy in America. Scheduled for release in the US on Christmas Day, Bazawule’s adaptation follows the 1985 film that earned Whoopi Goldberg a Golden Globe and the Broadway musical that premiered in 2005.
Bazawule, now based in Atlanta, brings a wealth of experience and credentials to this high-pressure endeavor. Born Samuel Bazawule in Accra, Ghana, he exhibited a passion for drawing from an early age. Music also played a significant role in his life, with a diverse range of influences, including jazz, Ghanaian highlife, Motown, and Afrobeat. However, it was hip-hop, especially Public Enemy’s 1988 album “It Takes a Nation of Millions To Hold Us Back,” that left an enduring impact on Bazawule’s creative journey.
“I had never heard young black people express themselves in that way before,” Bazawule said on the website of his now defunct artist development company, Embassy MVMT.
Motivated by the influential sound of Public Enemy, Blitz Bazawule, after leaving Accra for his studies at Kent State University in the US, produced several mixtapes. Post-graduation, Bazawule relocated to New York, the heartland of hip-hop, to further his music career.
Under the moniker Blitz the Ambassador, he has launched four studio albums, showcasing his linguistic versatility by rapping in English, Twi (a Ghanaian language), and West African Pidgin. His music often features collaborations with renowned African artists like Seun Kuti, Angelique Kidjo, and Nneka. In a nod to his inspiration, Chuck D from Public Enemy made a guest appearance on Bazawule’s 2011 album, “Native Sun.”
Years later, leveraging the financial gains from his music performances, Bazawule ventured into filmmaking. This led to the creation of his debut feature film, “The Burial of Kojo,” which garnered critical acclaim.
“I realised no investor was interested in financing an African film that didn’t revolve around the narrow clichés of war and disease. Self-funding was my only option,” Bazawule wrote on crowdfunding site Kickstarter, as he attempted to raise more money for post-production.
The Burial of Kojo is a magical realism story about a young girl who goes missing while working in a gold mine in Ghana and sets out to find her father. The majority of the cast, who are locals, spoke Twi during the countryside filming.
Bazawule composed and performed the score for The Burial of Kojo, telling the BBC after the film’s 2018 premiere: “Making film is, I believe, the quintessential mix of all creative endeavours – you get to be a bit of a writer, you get to be a bit of a visual artist, you get to be a bit of a musician, all in one.”
Lacking formal training and conventional funding, Blitz Bazawule’s first film, “The Burial of Kojo,” captured the attention of renowned Hollywood director Ava DuVernay, known for her work on “Selma” and “When They See Us.” DuVernay’s company, Array, acquired the distribution rights for the film, marking it as the first Ghanaian-produced film to be featured on Netflix.
The film garnered widespread critical acclaim, with the New York Times lauding it as “a near-virtuoso work, a feast of emotion, nuance and beauty, and a startling feature directing debut.” The praise wasn’t just from film critics; Bazawule mentions that it was his work on “The Burial of Kojo” that led Beyoncé to invite him to collaborate on her project, “Black Is King.”
Released in 2020, “Black Is King” serves as a visual album complementing Beyoncé’s soundtrack for the 2019 “Lion King” remake. The film is a celebration of black identity and female empowerment, featuring a rich tapestry of African talent and culture. For his contributions to this project, Bazawule earned a Grammy nomination.
Branching out into literature, Bazawule’s 2022 novel “The Scent of Burnt Flowers” narrates the story of a couple seeking asylum in Ghana from 1960s America. This novel is on its way to becoming a six-episode TV series, with Bazawule at the helm as writer, director, and producer.
In his adaptation of “The Color Purple,” Bazawule focuses on the central character, Celie, and her vivid imagination, portraying it as a key element in her journey to overcome abuse and trauma.
“She’s working in her head to liberate herself,” he said in an interview in the run-up to the film’s release.
Madam Michelle Gbagonah, the mother of their eight-year-old son, alleges that Shatta Wale consistently neglects his responsibilities as a father, requiring constant reminders.
The lawsuit involves Madam Gbagonah seeking monthly maintenance for their child, as well as custody rights.
The legal documents highlight Shatta Wale’s alleged failure or refusal to contribute to their son’s medical expenses unless prompted and reminded.
Madam Gbagonah argues that Shatta Wale has blatantly evaded his parental responsibilities, prompting her to take legal action to address these concerns.
The lawsuit sheds light on the challenges faced in ensuring the artist fulfills his obligations as a father.
“I had never heard young black people express themselves in that way before,” Bazawule said on the website of his now defunct artist development company, Embassy MVMT.
The founder of Alabaster International Ministries, Prophet Kofi Oduro, shares his views on the tradition of 31st December prophecies in Ghana.
The last day of every year is renowned for prophecies, particularly in Ghana, where pastors predict events and outcomes for the upcoming year.
During this period, various pastors, including Prophet Nigel Gaisie and Apostle Owusu Bempeh, make predictions concerning public figures like Shatta Wale, Kuami Eugene, and former vice president John Dramani Mahama.
Prophet Kofi Oduro, however, stands apart in his belief, expressing his skepticism about the 31st December prophecies.
He boldly asserts his lack of faith in a God who only imparts prophecies on the night of 31st December. According to him, the God he believes in communicates with his servants consistently, challenging the notion of exclusive revelations restricted to a specific night.
In a discussion on UTV’s United Showbiz, he said: “Personally, I do not believe in that 31st December prophecies. I am looking for that God who only shares prophecies with his servants only on the 31st night because I do not understand. The Bible says once God has spoken, twice we have heard that all dominion power belongs to God. I don’t understand why we have to wait till the 31st because God speaks to us every day”.
“He doesn’t wait till December before he gives prophecy. You have to analytically assess yourself every day. God is speaking every day. I don’t think God will wait for 31st December before he gives prophecies. I do not believe in that”, he added.
Renowned Nollywood actress Ebube Nwagbo has shared a surprising revelation, admitting that she once harbored a crush on Emeka Ike.
However, Ebube disclosed that she never had the chance to express her feelings for the actor.
The revelation came during an interview at the premiere of Toyin Abraham’s latest film, ‘Malaika,’ held at Imax Cinema in Lagos.
Expressing her excitement about Emeka Ike’s return to cinema with the movie, Ebube Nwagbo provided a candid glimpse into her past admiration for the actor.
“I had a crush on Emeka Ike but wasn’t given the opportunity to express my feelings,”.
“I didn’t come on the internet space to clarify the allegations against me because it’s difficult to clarify because the same people that were bullying me on the internet, they were still there. They are gonna say, ‘Don’t mind him. He is still missing her. Move on.’
“And if you’re not prepared to handle it, you will be crushed. My secondary school, St. Nicholas College, on CMD road, Magodo, was shut down. Over N480 million investment that year was shut down. And all I heard was constant battery. I was like, ‘I don’t beat this lady. What’s going on? Babe, what’s going on? They said I beat you, do I?”
