About 40 students of Krobea Asante Technical and Vocational School at Asokore in the Ashanti Region have been arrested for causing damage to school property.
The students went on a rampage on Sunday morning, protesting the poor results of their predecessors in their final examination.
About four government vehicles, including a Mahindra and an Isuzu pickup trucks, a Nissan Patrol and a school bus were vandalised.
A Toyota Vitz vehicle owned by the Senior House Mistress was also damaged.
The students also turned over another salon car owned by a teacher.
Luv News sources say the school’s store was also invaded by the students resulting in the destruction of food items and other supplies.
The students made unsuccessful attempts to break into some bungalows but damaged parts of the buildings. The police intervened to restore calm on the campus.
The school has since been shut down upon a decision by the Ashanti Regional Minister, Simon Osei Mensah.
The Ashanti Regional Director of Education, Dr Annor Ankrah together with the District Director of Education were at the scene.
The Sekyere East District Security Council has also visited the school.
It is rare for people to admit to being unfaithful in their relationships, especially in public.
But comedian Richard Kweku Asante, known in showbiz as Kalybos, did just that on television.
He admitted to the host of The Doreen Avio Show on Joy Prime that he had previously cheated on his current partner.
The comic actor was asked whether he had ever cheated on his partner before, and he responded, “Yes. The current one, yes.”
The studio audience erupted in applause after hearing his confession, possibly because of his candour.
“Oh yes. I am [in a relationship]. I happened to fall into one, and I like where it is. In my line of work, most of my colleagues might not agree with this. But very important you have a relationship; have a single relationship.”
“You meet ladies, new faces all the time, so if you’re one who is picky and is not content with what he has, you might find a lady attractive, but tomorrow, definitely, trust me, you’ll find a different lady who’s more than what you saw. It all boils down to you, the guy. Assess yourself to know that I need to settle down with one lady, then the rest can follow,” he advised.
Kalybos did not reveal his current girlfriend’s identity or the circumstances that led him to cheat on her.
However, the filmmaker, admonished individuals who wish to settle down to give it careful thought.
This, he believes, will reduce the tendency to break up with one’s partner.
Kalybos further indicated that he has over the years learned a lot from his female siblings.
One of these lessons, he claims, is how to handle and treat ladies.
The Executive Director of Women’s Haven Africa, Adwoa Fosua Owusu Ofori, wants women to develop their skills and commercialise them.
She believes it is crucial in achieving financial independence.
“The majority of individuals think that becoming financially independent requires being a millionaire or billionaire.
“To become financially stable as a woman, you need to consider the income you earn and your expenses, you must consider and develop your skills and commercialise them,” she said.
She was speaking on Luv in the Morning with David Akuetteh.
Ms. Adwoa Fosua believes in addition to having mentors, women need to adopt a new mindset of being capable of accomplishing anything.
“What do you bring to the table? And when you cannot tell, you are not listened to, not just in the home but the society at large. Leave abusive partners, and not rely on anybody else entirely because violence often results from overdependence.
“Women should have the mindset that they can accomplish anything,” she emphasised.
Ms. Adwoa Fosua emphasised the importance of confidence and self-esteem in achieving financial independence.
“People do not just look at you for being a woman but your competence and what you can bring on board,” she said.
Ms. Adwoa Fosua also advised that women should go in for men who don’t feel intimidated by the success of women in order not to be limited and suppressed.
A woman has given birth to a giant baby weighing 16lb and measuring 2ft tall in Brazil.
Angerson Santos was welcomed into the world via C-section at Hospital Padre Colombo in Parintins, Amazonas State, on Wednesday, January 18.
Medics believe that the supersize baby is the biggest to have ever been born in the state, beating the previous record of 13lb and 1.8ft.
Cleidiane Santos dos Santos had visited the hospital for a routine obstetric consultation, reports the Mirror.
But doctors quickly realised that the unborn baby would be too big for her to carry to full term so kept her in for a C-section.
Surgeons carried out the C-section the next day and Angerson was born weighing 7.328 kilogrammes and measuring 59 centimetres.
The baby is in an incubator but is in stable condition and has no abnormalities, according to medics at the hospital.
Angerson is so large that none of the newborn clothes his parents had purchased prior to his arrival fit so a fundraiser has been launched to help the family buy new clothes.
The facility is taking donations of extra-large nappies and clothes for babies aged between nine months and a year.
Angerson smashes the previous Amazonas state record set by Pedro Aluizio, who was born in Parintins in 2014 weighing 6.74 kilogrammes (14lb 8oz) and measuring 57 centimetres.
Before that, the record was held by a baby born in the municipality in 2011 weighing 6.12 (13lb) kilogrammes and measuring 56 centimetres (1.8ft).
Karim Zito has lauded his Dreams FC players following their win over Hearts of Oak on Sunday.
The Still Believe lads defeated the Phobians in their Round of 32 games at the Accra Sports Stadium.
Agyenim Boateng scored the only goal of the game as Dreams FC progressed to the Round of 16.
The ‘Phobians’ astonishingly were handed a penalty in the dying embers but couldn’t equalize despite hitting it on two occasions, first from Benjamin Yorke but goalkeeper Augustine Koomson got penalized for coming off the line hence called for a retake.
However, Samuel Inkoom stepped up for the second but also had it gathered
Speaking after the game, Zito lauded his players following the hard-fought win.
“Words cannot describe today’s feeling,” the former Black Satellites gaffer said.
“I said before the game that we have never won here before but we will break that jinx and we did it against such a team like Hearts of oak.
“I am really proud of my boys for making history,” the head coach added.
Solomon Lartey, the Institute’s president, thinks the initiative will have a negative effect on insurance companies, who run the risk of not being able to pay daily claims totaling GH4.5 million to policyholders in Ghana.
Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of the Governing Council of the CIIG’s Investiture Ceremony, Mr. Latery noted that over 40% of funds in the insurance business are invested in government securities and added that the DDEP will also have an impact on investor trust.
Meanwhile, the Ghana Insurance Association (GIA) has also expressed concern over the Debt Exchange Programme and its associated impact on the insurance sector.
It noted that apart from defaulting on payment of daily claims, the DDEP will compound underwriting losses made by insurance firms operating in the country.
In the third quarter of 2022 alone, the GIA said records show that insurance firms in the country made total underwriting losses of about GH¢356 million.
“Since the industry is making underwriting losses overall, it means that insurance companies rely on investment income to meet their claim obligations to policyholders. Therefore, any debt exchange programme will negatively affect our ability to pay claims and lead to asset-liability mismatch,” the GIA stressed.
“Taking into consideration the fact that insurance companies are making underwriting losses, the effect of the debt exchange programme will be so devastating that there will not be an insurance industry after we surmount the economic challenges,” it added.
As part of efforts to secure an IMF bailout and address the country’s unsustainable debt situation, government launched the DDEP inviting bondholders to voluntarily exchange approximately GH¢137 billion domestic notes and bonds of the Republic including ESLA and Daakye for a package of new bonds.
The DDEP has since received rejection and backlash by various groups of bondholders who have urged their members not to sign unto the debt restructuring exercise of government without proper consultation and consensus.
Four Ghanaians are among 60 new students for the MultiChoice Talent Factory (MTF) for the MultiChoice Talent Factory (MTF) Class of 2023 in its 12-Month fully funded education programme that develops emerging TV and film talents in Africa.
They are Boakye Dacosta (Boakye D. Alpha), Deborah Okyerewaa Aduamah, Elvis Asiedu Damptey and Ruth Abbu-Frimpong.
The academy received thousands of applications across 13 countries in Africa, and after a rigorous selection process, 60 aspiring filmmakers have been selected to be part of the MTF’s 12-month training programme that includes both theory and hands-on experience in filmmaking from scriptwriting to cinematography, editing and audio post-production.
After an in-depth interview and adjudication process by regional Academy Directors and industry representatives, the final candidates that were selected include 50% males and 50% females from the Southern Region, 40% males and 60% females from the Western Region and a total of 55% males and 45% females will represent the Eastern Region.
MTF Academies continue to work with their regional and international partners to ensure that the students receive the best standard of training and practical experience needed to hone their skills and contribute positively to the film and TV industry. MTF also works with renowned local and international facilitators, such as academician Dr Benea Shapaya, Senior Lecturer Film and Media Studies at Kenyatta University, who will be facilitating a session on the history of film and television industry in Africa, and 4x SAFTA award-winning writer, producer, and Director – Neil McCarthy, who is currently one of the most highly experienced screenwriters in the country. The program also boasts a high calibre of award-winning specialists from across the continent, many of whom produce content for M-Net group channels.
The top graduates from each of the three academies will be presented with the incredible opportunity to further develop their skills with various internships sponsored by MTF partner organisations such as the New York Film Academy (NYFA) and Zee World amongst others. Where additional hands-on experience will take place to further prepare them for various sectors in the TV and film industry.
“We are extremely excited about the Class of 2023, and we wish them the best of luck as they start their new journey. Filmmaking is such a wonderful art and because it is ever-evolving, this year our students will be encouraged to explore and exploit various emerging technologies that are revolutionising the industry. I encourage the Class of 2023 to be bold and remain curious in their pursuit of telling African stories,” Said Multichoice Talent Factory Director for Africa, Nwabisa Matyumza.
MTF has shown continuous success since its inception, honing the skills of over 120 emerging filmmakers in 13 countries across the continent, who are now part of the growing MTF alumni network, taking African stories to the world. The MTF Alumni class of 2022, has within three months of graduating saw 60% of its graduates already economically active in the TV industry. This is a true testament of the power of training and development provided by the MTF programme.
A private legal practitioner, Bobby Banson, has highlighted the contract that exists between banks and their clients.
According to him, financial institutions have no right to debit the account of customers without their consent.
He made this assertion after a number of COCOBOD bill investors had their returns rolled over, thus, locking up their funds for another six months.
But Mr Banson, throwing more lights on the predicament, said the move was illegal.
“Once the money hits your account and you get an alert, the position of the law is that the bank does not have the right to withdraw the money, unless it is an irregular credit to the account, but once the money is legally attained, the bank doesn’t have rights to debit it.
“So unfortunately for the banks that sent the alerts outs, and now sending an alert reverting that transfer, they would some questions to answer to their customers,” he stated.
JoyNews learnt that monies paid to investors who purchased cocoa bills on maturity on Thursday, January 19, 2023, were withdrawn from individual investors’ accounts without their consent.
COCOBOD issued the bill to raise funds. Many had bought the bills expecting to be paid back their monies with interest on Thursday January 19, 2023.
JoyNews understands the monies were actually paid on Thursday, January 19, 2023, only to be reversed on Friday, January 20, 2023.
Reports say, the banks have all day been under pressure from affected customers.
The banks have pointed to a directive from the Bank of Ghana ordering them to unilaterally roll over the bonds without first seeking the consent of investors.
Celebrated Ghanaian actress and author Juliet Ibrahim has flaunted her admirable small waist and voluptuous figure in recent photos.
Taking to her verified Instagram page, she shared gorgeous photos of herself rocking a blue-themed outfit.
It was a royal blue skirt that was long enough to cover her knees. The skirt was made of silk fabric that made the outfit stand out.
The top was made of long sleeves tulle fabric that was designed with blue petals. The top shoulder section had puffs that were made of the same fabric as that of the skirt.
A mixture of royal blue and light blue fabric was used to craft the corset section of the top to add some texture and style.
Her hairstyle was 90s inspired as the front part of the wig was held in a perfect puff with a bump and allowed to hang over her back.
Below are lovely photos of Juliet Ibrahim sparkling in a blue corset outfit.
Former Ghana Football Association (GFA) chairman, Lepowura Alhaji Mohammed Nuru Deen Jawula has passed on in the United States of America at the age of 74 after battling with illness.
Until his demise, he was the Lepowura of the Kujolobito Gate of Lepo-Kpembe in the Northern Region.
He served as the GFA chairman from 1997-2001 when he stepped down from his role for the late Ben Koufie to continue as GFA chairman.
The late Alhaji Jawula died in Nashville -USA on Saturday, 21st January 2023 after an unknown ailment.
During his tenure the Black Starlets, U-17 team placed 2nd and 3rd in the 1997 and 1999 World Cups respectively, while the U-20 side which gave Ghana the likes of Michael Essien, Derek Boateng, John Mensah, John Paintsil placed second to Saviola’s Argentina in 2001.
He was the Chairman of the seven-member Ghana Premier League Management Committee, CAF interclub committee member, and also a board member of his beloved RTU.
Alhaji Jawula attended the Tamale Secondary School before progressing to the University of Cape Coast for his first degree in English and Economics.
He worked at the Ministry of Finance, the Ministry of Health, and several other Ministries before he retired.
Accra Hearts of Oak have been kicked out of the MTN FA Cup after a 1-0 loss to Dreams FC at the Accra Sports Stadium on Sunday.
Dreams FC took the lead as early as the 10th minute of the encounter as Agyenim Boateng Mensah took advantage of a Richmond Ayi howler to slot home.
The Phobians damped out the Still Believe lads in the semifinal of last season’s competition following a 3-2 win at the Accra Sports stadium. But their output on Sunday was not up to task as Dreams FC held on to their early lead to cruise through to the next stage of the Cup competition.
Hearts of Oak were awarded a penalty late in injury time but failed to make good use of it as Benjamin Yorke and Samuel Inkoom missed from the spot.
The Phobians had to take the penalty kick twice after replays showed that the Dreams FC goalkeeper had come off his lines to save Benjamin Yorke’s initial kick.
Former Ghana International Samuel Inkoom took over the mantle but also had his kick saved by Dreams FC goalkeeper Augustine Koomson.
The Dawu based side kept their composure and discipline to win 1-0 to progress to the Round of 16 of the MTN FA Cup.
The Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA) has resisted pressure from some quarters to start the Keta Port project right once in the Volta region, which will become the third seaport in the country after Tema and Takoradi in the Greater Accra and Western regions, respectively.
The authority has been under intense pressure over the lack of activity at the site earmarked for the project.
However, Managing Director of Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority, Michael Luguje insists a project of such magnitude doesn’t happen within a few months.
He was responding to a suggestion by president of Port Journalists Network, Elvis Darko, at a soiree organised by the authority where Joy Business was present.
The journalist asked GPHA to intensify communication on the strategic national project to lay the public’s mind to rest over concerns of delay.
“When you talk to people, you realisze that they have very little idea about the project. Once it has been announced by the government, they assume it will be funded by same, forgetting that investors are going to make it happen”
“Once the project hasn’t taken off, there is something wrong and they’re pointing fingers at government,” he shared.
He said seeking capital from the private sector takes time and would certainly delay the project compared to government-funded ones.
“This speaks to lack of communication on the project and ought to change. All details including construction of railway as part of the project must be made known. He cited Boankra Inland Port which has been on paper for 20 years and the difficulty in getting investors with deep pocket to get the project going,” Mr. Darko added.
In acknowledging the suggestion from the journalist, the Managing Director of GPHA, admitted that more needs to be done in sharing information on the Keta port project.
He quickly likened the seaport project to building a house which will ordinarily not happen just a day after taking the decision.
“Constructing a port is a lengthy process. The port of Tema took 10 years to get the port from beginning to commissioning to start operations”.
“And it’s not the Tema you see today. It was a small port built to serve trade and expanded over time to accommodate growing trade and it was the same for Takoradi,” he narrated.
He urged that this history should guide Ghanaians into construction of Keta port which will not come completed the next morning after announcing it.
“Port construction begins with a lot of studies, partnerships, stakeholder and investor engagements. Unlike way back in the when these two early ports were built by government. Now it’s more about public-private partnership with all the hurdles,” Mr. Luguje remarked.
According to him, feasibility studies are concluded, environmental and social impact assessment studies are expected to start soon with the consultant engaged in the next couple of months, aside seeking for investors as advertised in the dailies.
“A number of them have written to us and we are going to assess and analyse what we’ve received and then look at those that actually will be representative and interested in providing what we are looking for,” he hinted.
He reassured that government remains committed to this seaport project.
Michael Luguje reminded the media of the need to always have balanced story particularly with issues concerning the port.
General Manager, Marketing and Corporate Affairs at GPHA, Esther Gyebi Donkoh was displeased with the path some media houses have taken which she described as deliberate with intention to misinform the public.
“Their stories are one-sided and devoid of the truth. They fail to crosscheck from all parties to produce a balanced reportage. Their desire to break the news first is important to them than professional and ethical principles,”
“My worry is about how this is harming the public and the country as a whole and must be stopped,” she lamented.
For her, the media is a strategic partner in helping to communicate the authority’s policy decisions.
“As part of our plans for 2023, the media will be exposed to different initiatives, planned activities, training sessions, among special events. We will furnish you with progress report on the Keta project. GPHA is committed to this project despite the huge misinformation campaign launched against us. We are not perturbed at all,” she assured.
Ghanaian actress and business mogul Fella Makafui has turned heads on social media after she dropped pictures of herself enjoying the winter weather in the United States of America.
She was spotted wearing a long black winter coat that covered the major part of her body.
Inside the winter coat, she wore a brown long-sleeved sweatshirt and sweat trousers also in the same colour. To complete her look, she wore a pair of sneakers.
Captioning the post on her verified Instagram post, she called on her fervent followers to wake her up from her slumber when the winter is over. In an exciting mood, she wrote,
Wake me up when it’s summer ❣️
Her rapper husband, Medikal, commented on her post by referring to her as John Snow, one of the main characters in the hit American fantasy series Game of Thrones.
More than Jon Snow
Below is a carousel post of Fella Makafui enjoying her time in the U.S.
Reactions as netizens spot Fella Makafui having a good time in the snow in America
tashaamos remarked:
Bring snow for me ❤️
kofiyaga_ky said:
You are already awake and smiling
cons.tance_ stated:
Softttt lifeeee
adam_smalls007 said:
Jolly jolly….. when you’re coming back bring small snow for me abeg
amgdeybore said:
Rich auntie ❤️
oboy_murphy commented:
Broniiba ❤️. Is your sis fine like thisssss. Sorryyyyyy
Meanwhile, many netizens continue to drool over the pictures Fella Makafui shared from her trip to the U.S. as many admired how gorgeous she looked in her winter outfit while standing in the snow.
Ace media personality Oheneyere Gifty Anti has shared adorable images in which she posed with her daughter Nyame Animuonyam to ring out her own birthday.
The host of The Standpoint was in a thankful mood because she turns 53 years old today, January 23.
Sharing the images on her Instagram account, the media personality disclosed that she and her daughter were off to church to thank God ahead of her special day.
Oheneyere Gifty Anti expresses gratitude ahead of her birthday
”We love to thank God in advance. So before tomorrow comes, before I become a year older tomorrow, we are going to say thank you, Lord.
”We are grateful for what he has done, what He is doing, and what He is about to do,” she wrote.
Oheneyere Gifty Anti and her all-grown daughter beamed with smiles in the pictures which had fans and actress Gloria Sarfo in their feeling.
To accessorise her entire look, she carried a cute black bag and she wore lovely bracelets. She completed her look with star-studded black slipper heels.
Many netizens shower her with lovely compliments as she stuns in a blue dress
miss_akua.esq commented:
A beauty
nanama_osei said:
My sisterrrrrrrr
nostalgia_gabbs commented:
Thank you for blessing my TL
abrefii__ said:
Simplicity at it best
hilda_ampah said:
Akoa ho twa
bessa_simons stated:
Absolutely stunning!
karma_xox stated:
Glowwwiinnnnggg
the.ellamaeofficial remarked:
Attaaaa Maame ❤️
am_the_chosen said:
you look amazing!
The gorgeous photos of Tracy A. Osei have gotten many netizens flooding her comment section with love emojis as they drool over how stunning she looks.
Ayisha Modi has established that Diamond Appiah was granted bail courtesy a certain Bugri Naabu.
Earlier, an Accra Circuit Court presided over by Mrs. Evelyn Asamoah admitted Diamond to bail in the sum of GHC300,000 with three sureties who are to be public servants.
This comes after she (Diamond Appiah) was arrested for allegedly collecting a sum of $30,000 from Ayisha Modi under the pretext of selling a parcel of land at East Legon Hills.
Touching on the development, Ayisha in an interview with Kofi TV confirmed that Diamond has indeed been granted bail whiles disclosing who offered the help.
“They have granted her bail. Bugri Nabu granted her bail her and the next court case is on the 8th. I can’t say much about it because the issue is still in court. I don’t know what the court is judging but she has been given from now to 8th to refund my money. If she doesn’t bring it, then the judge will make his decision. Whether she will be sentenced or I will be.
“Diamond is not my friend and I haven’t even been to her house before. She was a business partner. I linked her to a some of my friends and they also bought lands from her but they faced similar problem. She is an agent. She doesn’t have lands to her name. she acts as a middle man to chiefs and persons who want to sell their lands,” she stated in an interview with Kofi TV.
Background
Prosecuting Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Evans Kesse told the Court that the complainant Ayisha Modi is a Businesswoman and a resident of Adjiringanor, whereas the accused person was also a businesswoman and resided at East Legon, Accra.
The prosecution said in 2020, the complainant needed a plot of land to purchase for a building purpose and discussed it with one Johnson, a witness in this case.
It said the accused person who overheard the conversation, jumped in that she had a plot of land at East Legon Hills and could sell same to the complainant at a cheaper price.
The prosecution said the accused person demanded and collected cash, the sum of US$30,000.00 from the complainant under the pretext of selling her one parcel of land at East Legon Hills.
It said the accused person took the complainant to a land at East Legon Hills.
The prosecution said the complainant later went to the land and met one Gustav who claimed ownership of the land.
It said the complainant made several attempts to retrieve her money from the accused person, but she failed.
The prosecution said the complainant made a report to the Police and the accused person was arrested.
It said during investigation, it was established that the accused person did not have any land at that location.
Beyonce Knowles delivered a historic performance at the grand reveal of Dubai’s Atlantis The Royal on Saturday, and the musician is set to take home $24 million for her performance at the grand launch of the luxury hotel.
The performance marked her first full-length show in five years, and Beyonce wowed crowds with an hour-long set that included a mix of hits from her extensive music catalog, as well as a surprise guest performance by her eldest daughter, Blue Ivy, 11.
The launch of the luxury hotel, Atlantis The Royal, is set to meet the growing demand for luxurious vacations by ultra-wealthy individuals as Dubai cashes in on an influx of newcomers to the city, including Russians looking to protect their wealth, Israeli investors, crypto millionaires, and executives.
The resort, spanning 63 hectares and housing 795 rooms and suites, has been anticipated for years, and guests will have to pay an average of $1,000 a night to stay in one of its rooms.
The luxury hotel also has more than 100 exclusive suites, with the top suite going for $100,000 a night.
Beyonce, who ranks as one of the wealthiest black women in the world with a net worth of $450 million, according to Forbes, derives the majority of her wealth from multiple clothing lines, including her activewear line, Ivy Park, which has a partnership with Adidas.
The musician has sold more than 75 million records as a solo artist and over 60 million with her band Destiny’s Child.
In November 2022, Beyoncé received nine new Grammy nominations, bringing her lifetime total to 88 and tying the record for the most nominations in Grammy history.
This is a testament to her enduring popularity and talent, which was on full display at the Atlantis The Royal launch.
Kweku Darlington has recalled his past story, which probably motivated him to work harder.
The Ghanaian musician revealed how difficult life was for him some years ago.
With an interest to pursue his music career, Kweku had to make a lot of sacrifices.
Some of the things he did to make his dream career see the light of the day include becoming a cleaner at music studios.
He told MC Kiki in an interview on Afro614 Multimedia’s ‘Afro Drive’ in the United States of America that he became a cleaner at studios to settle recording fees.
Since he had no money to pay, the 26-year-old musician said he used that as a mean to get his songs recorded.
This, he indicated, happened some years ago when he has not gotten a breakthrough in the Ghanaian music scene.
After recording the songs, Kweku Darlington stated that he was using only WhatsApp to promote them.
He stressed that the journey has not been an easy one.
In the heat of Big Akwes’ attack on his colleague, Frank Naro, the former alleged that the latter and actress Maame Serwaa were lovers some time ago.
Big Akwes angrily stated that Frank Naro should have used his ex-lover, who is alleged to be Maame Serwaa for the supposed money rituals he was trying to use some Kumawood stars like himself for.
Even though Maame Serwaa has been very quiet on this issue ever since it surfaced online, the ‘Abena’ hitmaker in a recent interview with Zionfelix disclosed how she felt about the whole brouhaha.
According to Frank Naro, the allegation greatly affected Maame Serwaa.
He revealed that after Big Akwes raised the allegations, Maame Serwaa called her on phone and throughout the conversation, he realized that she was totally down.
The ‘Koom’ crooner further stated that Maame Serwaa is only his best friend and nothing more and that nothing anyone will say or do, can destroy their kind of friendship.
The Chief Executive Officer of Despite Group of Companies, Osei Kwame Despite over the weekend gifted players and officials of Yaw Dabo Academy $100 each.
The gesture by the Ghanaian business mogul happened after a friendly match between the Yaw Academy who are on a pre-season tour in Accra and the East Legon Executive Fitness Club.
Though the result of the game is unknown, the players most certainly made an impression on Kwame Despite to move him to gift them the above-stated amount.
A video which making the waves on social media sees the players and officials taking turns to receive their $100 gift from the owner of the Despite Media Group.
Yaw Dabo who was present was heard hailing Kwame Despite and expressing gratitude to him for the gesture to his player and officials.
Dabo who could be heard running commentary on the donation, could not hide his enjoyment as he hurled appellations and adulations on Kwame Despite.
Yaw Dabo Academy is a Kumasi-based division two side owned by a veteran actor who is huge football fanatic.
Yaw Dabo is a big fan of Manchester United and also belongs to the school of thought that Cristiano Ronaldo is a better footballer than Lionel Messi.
Yaw Dabo is credited with the discovery of Hearts of Oak star, Daniel Afriyie Barnieh.
Ghanaian Reggae and Dancehall musician, Michael Okine, known chiefly as Jupitar, has alleged that Ga-speaking artistes have been sidelined in the entertainment industry.
He said, despite their talent and hard work, these musicians including himself, have suffered a great deal from what he termed as tribalism in the industry..
“This whole industry is a set up and if you be “Ga” like myself, @shattawalegh, @IamKingPromise or @dkbghana etc certain kinda support you go suffer or you no go get kraaa no matter the effort,” he wrote in a now-deleted tweet.
Although his comment has faced stiff opposition, some entertainers like comedian DKB have sided with his claim.
In response to the viral tweet, DKB wrote: “Oh Anyemi! The tribal agenda and caucus we know them. We won’t stop fighting them. GA’s will arise! Am3ny3m333 atotomi.”
Jupitar in a retweet wrote: “This must stop, time they stop treating GA’s like we are not Ghanaians… it’s enough!
The Dancehall singer also called out some media houses for being selective when it comes to supporting artistes.
He said: “If you are a Ga, nothing you can do to impress them.”
Check out the tweets below:
This must stop, time they stop treating GA’s like we are not Ghanaians… it’s enough !!!! https://t.co/TfQDhKfVyH
Was the first Ghanaian artist to ever grace this stage and the media was mute about it, I remember last year I had an event and @Hitz1039FM and some foolish boy made some foolish statements and yet they refused to acknowledge all the great achievements… God go punish you ppl pic.twitter.com/kT8LF5EUrS
They call me lazy when they don’t even know a song on my 20 tracks album ..the always pin my comments to a particular artist when I’m fighting for equality… but they know im the best at what I do with or without media support, Chale we just no want make noise.. tour23 soon!
Chale stay your lane yeah… you don’t owe me shit, so just stay your lane, that your disrespectful lifestyle keep it away from this side… just some little advise https://t.co/Eo9iVtYsFa
Nollywood actress, Patience Ozokwor, popularly known as Mama G, has explained why she would never advise anyone to leave a marriage because of infidelity.
Patience Ozokwor, popularly known as Mama G, has explained why she would never advise anyone to leave a marriage because of infidelity.
The veteran actress made this assertion during a popular cooking show, “Mercy’s Menu”, hosted by her colleague, Mercy Johnson Okojie.
According to Mama G, she would not allow anyone to leave their marriage for a “Visitor”.
“Would you advise anyone to leave if there’s infidelity?” Mercy asked.
“Me, I’m not going to leave my house for anybody, you are the visitor that came in. Find your way out”, Mama G replied.
“I will so hold my family, so polish it, and sweep out all the debts, and then had a peaceful home again.”
Mercy further asked; “even when the infidelity is constant?”
“If infidelity is constant, it is the one that is an infidel that should go out. I’m not leaving my house for anybody,” Mama G replied again.
The film star also spoke on why she wouldn’t advise divorce in marriages but separation instead, adding that God is not against separation but he despises divorce.
“God is not against separation. What God doesn’t want is divorce. God is not saying we should not divorce because sometimes he does not know that we have violated – No,” she said.
“Coming from a Christian background, we are not allowed to divorce.
“If you pray and the man turns around to become something else, escape for dear life because it is only those who are alive that can tell the story. When you are dead, nobody can tell your story for you.
“For me, marriage is forever till death do us part. That is the way I brought up my children. What we have today baffles me.
“I feel for the children that they’re giving birth to because I don’t know how they would learn something better from their parents.”
In a recent interview, the Script Interpreter who doubles as a Presenter opened up on her sexual fantasies and dealing with lesbians in her industry.
“I think about sex a lot. Probably more than I have it. I have tried 3some enough to know that I don’t like it or women. I don’t like being touched sexually in any way by a woman. Of course, I have you been approached by lesbians severally, in fact all the time even as we speak (Laughs). I just ignore or simple polity decline. In this my Nollywood industry, they don’t hide anymore.
“I’m not one to judge and if they don’t shoot their shot how will you know. Someone that does this kind of topic about sex, can’t be offended. So, I am not offended when lesbians approach me. I educate people about sex on my social media pages. The thing that keeps me going is the genuine heart touching feedback. Married people and singles give me feedback and thank me on daily basis. Having someone they can reach out to free from shame and jugement has benefited many and repaired many homes, ” she said.
Asked if she would abandon a relationship if she discovers her man is bisexual, Destiny Amaka stated that although she would feel hurt, she would have a rethink if her partner considers heeding certain conditions she would set.
“I’ve sadly thought about this a lot and I’ve concluded that although it may hurt because betrayal or lies regardless of the gender will hurt. I think once I’ve gotten over everything, I’ll definitely leave. It’s not what I bargained for and people shouldn’t feel bad for leaving. Now here’s something that might not go down well with people. I’ll love you enough to stay and be a cover up if my own terms and conditions are met. Life no too hard like that jare and if not then we move,” she stated.
Sarkodie has been featured on a new rendition of legendary late reggae artiste, Bob Marley and the Wailers band’s classic, “Stir it Up”, originally released in 1973.
‘Stir It Up’, is a love song the late Jamaican musician wrote for his beloved wife Rita Marley, a year after their marriage.
Prior to the release of its latest rendition, Sarkodie who gave a hint about being a part of it disclosed that the project is the biggest highlight in his music journey.
The last time a Ghanaian artiste chalked such an enviable feat in the music industry was when “Ayoo” hitmaker Charles Nii Armah Mensah better known as Shatta Wale got featured on ‘Already’, a song on Beyoncé’s ‘Lion King: The Gift’ album, released in 2019 and produced by Guilty Beatz.
The “Stir it Up” song which was released on Friday, January 20, and was re-produced by popular producer, John Kwesi Dosunmu-Mensah better known as M.O.G Beatz has muddled a lot of controversy within the showbiz fraternity.
The question that many are asking is: Which of these collaborations is the biggest achievement in the Ghanaian music industry?
One can recall that the CEO of the most prestigious music awards scheme in the World, ‘The Grammys’; Harvey Mason Jr. in an exclusive dinner meeting with Ghanaian artists during his visit to the country gave the artists the inside scope of how one can win an award.
According to him, to win a Grammy, one needs to live in the United States of America and be a part of the GRAMMY Academy.
Another significant point he raised was that winning the most prestigious music award is not about the number of streams, getting a record label, or sales but the quality of the song – the song must be well-produced.
From a Grammy’s perspective, Shatta Wale’s feature with Beyonce is the biggest achievement. Beyonce is more decorated than Bob Marley.
Though Robert Nesta Marley a.k.a Bob Marley was considered one of the pioneers of reggae, and his musical career was marked by fusing elements of reggae, ska, and rocksteady, as well as his distinctive vocal and songwriting style, he never received a nomination during his life.
The Recording Academy failed to recognize his talents. He did, however, receive a Lifetime Achievement Award in 2001 after his demise in 1981.
The late Jamaican singer was also nominated in 2001 and 2002 for Best Music Film and Best Pop Collaboration with Vocals posthumously, but he did not win in those categories.
With a total of 28 awards and 79 nominations from the Grammy Awards for her music (including her work in Destiny’s Child and The Carters), Beyoncé Giselle Knowles-Carter better known as Beyonce’ is the most nominated woman and the most awarded singer in Grammy history.
She is known for her boundary-pushing artistry and her vocal prowess. Her success has made her a cultural icon and earned her the nickname “Queen Bey”.
Until a Ghanaian artiste features a musician who is more decorated than the American songstress, her collaboration with Shatta Wale would continue to be the biggest achievement in the Ghanaian music industry.
For now, Sarkodie can only be congratulated for being the Ghanaian artiste who was chosen to feature on the remixed version of the late Bob Marley & The Wailers’ iconic “Stir it up’ song.
Ghanaian-American comedian, Michael Blackson, has posted a video bonding with his family at Agona Nsaba in Agona East District of Ghana’s Central Region.
The comedian was filmed in the company of his mother, some women, and children. His mom and one of the women spoke Fante, which the comedian said he barely understood.
How Michael Blackson captioned the footage
Sharing the clip on his Instagram account, the comedian, who is based in the US, wrote:
”I think my mom and our village ladies were gossiping about me. If you understand Fante or you read lips, please tell me what they were saying,” he wrote.
Michael Blackson attempted to express himself in Fante in the footage but ended up triggering laughter with his accent.
While some fans found his accent funny, many observed that the comedian looks like his mom, as one said their ”resemblance is deep”.
Fans wowed by Joselyn Dumas and daughter’s striking resemblance
The video of Joselyn Dumas and her daughter has sparked massive reactions from her followers. While some are impressed by t growth of the actress’ daughter, others are just amazed by their striking resemblance.
YEN.com.gh compiled a few of the reactions below.
thekevinj_ said:
“She got so bigggggg .”
4_kukua said:
Even the voice is twinning
akweley_suma said:
She definitely look your whole face and voice
adams__zakarias said:
That beautiful daughter look exactly like you, like mother like daughter
Socialite Rosemond Brown popularly known as Akuapem Poloo has stated that she has been living her life in consonance with the standards of the Muslim religion since she converted.
Speaking on ETV on Wednesday she indicated that she practises all the doctrines of the religion including praying five times every day.
She made the revelation when she was asked about the difference between Christianity and the Islamic religion.
According to her, she believes both Muslim and Christian religions are not different.
“To me, I don’t see any difference between the two religions. It’s the same way we worship God, the same way we worship Allah. The difference is you say God and I say, Allah. You have to go neat before talking to God. We pray five times a day and I am glad I’m able to go through all that. Yeah, I pray five times a day,” she indicated.
Poloo converted from Christianity to the Muslim religion in 2022.
She cited her son as the reason for converting and not because of a man.
She said converting to Muslim has really changed her life, adding that she now covers when she is dressed. She no longer wears outfits that expose her body.
Poloo was on Etv to talk about her upcoming movie titled, Kotoka which is scheduled to premiere on Valentine’s Day February 14, 2023, at the Silverbird Cinemas in Accra.
Kotoka is a story about two women: Ruby Benson, 34, a high-class businesswoman and Naya Essel, a 28-year-old unemployed graduate. Both are distanced by life, separated by class but yet connected by one choice they both made. A choice that ultimately defines their destiny and that of many others. A choice that will either keep them alive or leave them dead. However, it all depends on if they can cross the boarding gate!
Popular music executive cum businessman, Hammer, has admonished musicians to be wary of the negative lifestyles they adopt at the peak of their careers.
According to him, Lucifer, who was once the greatest musician in heaven, has a special interest in destroying musicians, who he sees as competition after he (the devil) was cast out.
Speaking during a discussion on Showbiz 360, the founder of the Last Two Group established that musicians shouldn’t give the devil an easy job by adopting all kinds of damaging lifestyles, particularly drug abuse.
Hammer maintained that drug abuse is one of the tools that is mostly used to destroy the flourishing careers of musicians, who either die or watch their careers crumble before their eyes.
“There’s something that I’ve always said. The devil upon a time was supposed to be the greatest musician in the heavens. The devil was the leader of music in the heavens. That tells us that the devil has a special place in his heart for musicians. He is attracted to musicians. So we can only understand that, as musicians, we need to be careful,” he said.
He added that musicians should stop seeing drugs as a means to draw inspiration for their craft.
“A lot of people mistake these drugs or alcohol to be an avenue to inspiration. Arts is about inspiration. Some people, it comes to them. For others, they have to find it. So a lot of beginners try to get inspiration from various avenues,” he stated.
Some of the world’s greatest musicians were said to have died as a result of drug overdoses or intoxication.
The likes of Whitney Houston, Michael Jackson, Mac Miller, Heath Ledger, Philip Seymour Hoffman, Dolores O’Riordan, and many others reportedly lost their lives to drug abuse.
Popular Ghanaian comic actor, Richard Asante, popularly known as Kalybos, has opened up about his unfaithfulness in his current relationship.
In a discussion with Doreen Avio on JoyTV Prime, the actor was asked if he has ever cheated on his girlfriend, and he gave a resounding yes.
The studio audience gave a loud applause after hearing his confession, possibly because of his frankness.
Although Kalybos did not reveal his current girlfriend’s identity or the circumstances that led him to cheat on her, he said;
“Oh yes. I am [in a relationship]. I happened to fall into one, and I like where it is. In my line of work, most of my colleagues might not agree to this. But very important you have a relationship; have a single relationship. You meet ladies, new faces all the time, so if you’re one who is picky and is not content with what he has, you might find a lady attractive, but tomorrow, definitely, trust me, you’ll find a different lady who’s more than what you saw. It all balls down to you, the guy. Access yourself to know that I need to settle down with one lady, then the rest can follow,” he stated.
Kalybos, however, advised his colleagues who wish to settle down to give it careful thought, adding that it will reduce the tendency to break up with one’s partner.
The ‘Boys Kasa’ crooner further indicated that he has, over the years, learned how to treat a woman right from his sisters.
Nigerian actress and producer Mercy Johnson has disclosed how veteran actress, Patience Ozokwor, advised her years ago to stop indecent dressing.
While reflecting on the past during her chat with Mrs Ozokwor on this week’s edition of her weekly cook show, Mercy’s Menu, the actress said “Do you remember when you were younger before you got married when I told you that the photos you take today, your children will see them tomorrow and immediately the kind of lifestyle you lived?”
Mercy Johnson acknowledged the statement saying “Yes you did, you told me Mercy dress properly, you will have kids and when they grow up, they will ask you, why are you looking this way? yes I remember, I’m lucky but i still learned the hard way really.”
Also during their conversation, Patience Ozokwor revealed why she didn’t marry after she lost her husband years ago
“I wanted to remarry but my kids had already come of age and they pleaded with me not to marry another man and they promised they will be my husband. They asked me to stay single for them so their friends will not laugh at them that at their age their mum remarried and I understood them, though it was selfish of them but I paid the huge sacrifice for them, no sacrifice is too huge for family.”
“It was my son God used for me, he had a dream twice of me with my natural face and hair on and God told him, he preferred me looking that way than when I use make up and accessories, by the third time he had the dream, I just knew this is it, I had to stop.”
Comic actor Kalybos was left heartbroken after his proposal to Ghanaian songstress, Gyakie was rejected.
Kalybos revealed publicly in a recent interview that he becomes lovestruck anytime he sees or hears the 24-year-old, adding that he would love to start a beautiful relationship with her.
Among other things, he stated that his feelings for Gyakie surpass the 16 celebrity crushes he has in Ghana, and he would marry her if given the chance.
However, his proposal was turned down, and the reason, Gyakie has revealed is that she felt Kalybos was not serious about his assertions.
“I thought he was being jovial, I didn’t know he was serious,” she defended in an interview with Sammykaymedia.
According to her, they had spoken on multiple occasions, but the discussion was always on a musical level, the reason she believes his proposal is one of his gimmicks.
Should Kalybos exhibit seriousness, Gyakie revealed they would have further discussions off the cameras and see what would become of them.
Veteran Ghanaian actor and TV presenter, Akrobeto, stole the show at a grand durbar with his Kete dance moves.
The durbar was held to commemorate the enstoolment of Nana Akua Ahenesima 1 as the Frante-Sekyreodumase Nkoso)hemaa. Other actors, such as Lil Win, also attended the ceremony.
There was dancing and drumming at the traditional event, and Akrobeto decided to partake in the cultural dances. He joined a couple of ladies, fashionably dressed in beautiful Kente.
Akrobeto had folks staring in awe as he danced side by side with the ladies. Nkokonsa, a popular blogger who covered the event, shared the video on Instagram and brought joy to the hearts of netizens.
They admired how affable Akrobeto was and said happiness was free.
According to rapper Sarkodie, he is amazed at how rap icon Obrafour never used foul language in his music but had the respect and allegience of the youth of his time.
Nicknamed the Landlord, Sarkodie was telling Sideman on the +44 Podcast (Season 2, Episode 8) about how he recorded his verse for Bob Marley & The Wailer’s ‘Stir It Up’ which came out today, Friday, January 20, 2023.
Revealing that he considered himself unworthy and “just felt I’m not the right person,” to have his vocals next to Bob’s on a song, he added he worked on the 60s classic having in mind that: “I’m saying something next to Bob Marley. It [felt] like me and him in the booth. You can’t [drop the ball].”
The Landlord also indicated that “there are a few people I feel like that when I work with. The man that inspired me to rap, Obrafour. He’s never cussed, he’s never used profanity, and he was catering to the youth.”
“I didn’t know how he was able to do that,” he expressed his astonishment and admiration for the ‘Pae Mu Ka’ legend.
Confessing that he “tried it,” he admitted he gave up on it, arguing that: “[In] this new generation, [it’s] hard to keep it too censored. You want to say stuff that you feel. But that’s what I respect about him. So anytime I’m about to work with him, I sit down to sieve every line [to be sure] if [any] line is out of what his brand stands for.”
“That’s the same feeling I had with Bob Marley the legend,” he noted about working on his verse for Marley’s ‘Stir It Up’ which the late Jamaican’s official Instagram (IG) account called a “special version.”
Born Michael Owusu Addo, the multiple award-winning rap performer also disclosed that he recorded “like four verses and I had to choose the right one.”
Counting it a great honour to posthumously collaborate with the humanitarian and Reggae legend Bob Nesta Marley, Sarkodie is quoted, by Bob’s IG account, to have said the new ‘Stir It Up’ is “definitely one of the highest moments in my career/life…”
You might have chanced on one or two of his videos on social media – Facebook, Instagram, Youtube and Tiktok – and you may have fallen in love with how easily he tackles issues of health in very plain English language.
Dr Chinonso Egemba, popularly known as Aproko Doctor, is a Nigerian health practitioner who provides relatable medical advice and hands-on solutions for everyday healthcare promotion.
His over 1 million followers on social media love him for how he goes about his educative videos by adding a touch of humour.
However, on January 16, 2023, Aproko doctor shocked everyone when he announced that he had been diagnosed with a brain tumour, which left him partially blind.
In a social media post, he disclosed that while many people were celebrating Christmas and New year with their loved ones, he (Aproko Doctor) was fighting for his life in the hospital.
“Throughout December of 2022, I was fighting for my life. I went blind in one eye on the 3rd of Dec. 2022 and on the 5th, I was diagnosed with a brain tumour,” he posted.
In the video announcement, he said, “One thing to understand is that health issues can happen to you regardless of who you are, including me. For the past three weeks or two weeks, I have been fighting for my life. Some of you have no idea. It happened that I was diagnosed with craniopharyngioma, which is a brain tumour, and I had no idea I would be sharing my story.
“Here I am sitting on this seat sharing my own story about how I had a tumour in my brain. It was so bad that I couldn’t read out of my phone anymore, to the point where this eye, I couldn’t read with it and it was also closing. They said it is a craniopharyngioma and we need to do surgery to remove it.”
He added that the journey to healing and recovery has not been smooth, but “each day is better than the last.”
Cape Coast court has sentence to death by hanging, the killer of the region’s based dancehall artiste Unruly Grank, known in real life as Emmanuel Aikins. Graphic online report the High Court presided over by Justice Emmanuel Lodoh on Wednesday, Jan 18, 2023 sentenced Bright Ellis, commonly known in the region as Shadow to death for stabbing the musician.
Bullhaus Entertainment Founder and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Lawrence Nana Asiamah Hanson has revealed that before he became an artiste manager, he was a rapper.
He quit, went to school, and had 5Five as his first music act.
Bullgod was on CTV’s Class Showbiz hosted by Sammy Flex, Wednesday, January 18, 2023.
“I’m a disappointed rapper,” he said. “I was trying my hands at rapping but I got no help.”
Sammy asked if he had no assistance because his rap talent was lacking.
“Chale, I was a top dog,” he replied.
5Five Papi asked Bullgod to mention the rap name he was using back in the day.
“Awo Sexy,” Bullgod disclosed.
Sammy joked the name was the reason behind the unsuccessful rap endeavour.
Bullgod reacted with a belly laugh.
“[Papi] was my student then. I was helping him,” he said, pointing to the star rapper to his left on the table.
Concerning why he stopped pursuing rap, Bullgod said he simply realised it was going nowhere.
“It got to a point, I knew I was never going to get a hit,” he said matter-of-factly.
Explaining himself, he likened the feeling to currently knowing and accepting that his knees are not as good as they were when he was younger.
“At the moment, when I am climbing the stairs, my knees talk to me: ‘You’re really tired. Take your time. You’re nearing your end of days. Take your time. Take good care of yourself’.” he said with a serious face.
“Even my waist talks to me,” he lifted his voice for emphasis. “You have to admit [the truth to yourself].”
“I saw it myself, I knew it [my rap career] was not going to be successful,” he stressed.
Admitting the truth to himself, he enrolled in an arts school.
After school, Papi’s mother told him she has come to notice music is all her son wants to do.
“His mother is a mother to me. We all grew up in the same [community]. I’ve known him since he was 13,” he said. “The guy is what, 40 and something now.”
Due to what Papi’s mother had told him said, “Let’s start,” the music journey. Papi became his artiste.
‘Lamiokor’ was one of the first songs they started working on, Bullgod recalled.
At this point, Papi told him he is only good at rapping and has no singing abilities but knows someone who could sing.
Bullgod confessed he first protested but Papi introduced his singing friend Killy to him anyway.
These were the formative moments of one of Ghana’s most popular Hiplife groups: 5Five.
Bullgod affirmed that his first music act as a manager was 5Five.
“IWan, Natural Face, Bertha (Yaa Yaa), Nii Soul, Rudebwoy Ranking, Koo Ntakra, VIP, Shatta Wale, Vanilla,” he listed some of the main acts he has managed.
He disclosed he registered his artiste management company Bullhaus Entertainment in 2003, adding that 5Five started serious music recording in 2004.
Tiwa Savage has shed some light on why Nigerian artistes are succeeding more than other African artists globally.
According to her, it is because Nigerians are tough and naturally hard workers.
Among other things, Tiwa provided some insightful commentary on the ongoing rivalry between the South African and Nigerian music industries.
She said in a recent interview that there is much reconciliation between South African and Nigerian musicians that has to happen.
Tiwa also emphasized that both parties need to do a lot of mending in order to rid each other of mistrust, while also pointing out that the actions of a few people shouldn’t be used to criticize everyone.
“I want to be recognized as an African lady who didn’t take no for an answer.” The singer established.
https://youtube.com/watch?v=tr_JLhpHUyc
The “Loaded” hitmaker also discussed the legacy she hopes to leave as a role model for the upcoming generation of female musicians.
The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has couched the mantra ‘Breaking the 8’ to signify their intent to win the 2024 polls and to break the 8-year power rotation cycle between them and the National Democratic Congress (NDC) since 1992.
According to Ofori-Atta the conduct of upcoming parliamentary and presidential primaries will have a significant impact on whether or not the party can win the next elections.
He was speaking in an address after a recent visit to the NPP headquarters in Accra as part of efforts to bridge the gap between the party and government.
“The Minister for Finance thanked the party leadership for the warm reception and commended them… Hon. Ofori-Atta concluded his remarks by urging the party leadership to put in place adequate guidelines to ensure a smooth conduct of its parliamentary and presidential primaries as that is critical to the Party’s quest to win a-third consecutive general elections (break the eight),” a January 13 statement issued by the NPP said.
The party will in the coming months elect parliamentary candidates across the country as well as a presidential flagbearer to take over from president Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo whose final term expires in January 2025.
The minister endured a challenging 2022 with a failing economy that triggered calls for his sacking from the opposition and members of civil society as well as a group of NPP lawmakers.
Ofori-Atta also came under sustained attacks after government opted to go to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) at a time the cedi was suffering massive depreciation, inflation was galloping and the economy was suffering downgrades from rating agencies.
It was almost mid-day on January 20, 2022, when an explosion occurred at Appiatse, a community near Bogoso in the Prestea Huni Valley Municipality of the Western Region where thirteen people died on the spot and several others got injured.
Three others died later, bringing the total number of deaths to sixteen.
Properties were destroyed, after all, buildings in the Appiatse community of about a thousand population were razed down due to the explosion rendering all residents homeless.
The explosion happened as a result of a crash between a motorbike and a truck carrying explosive material from Maxam Company Ltd being transported by a subcontractor, Arthaans Logistics, to Chirano Gold Mines.
The part of the road where the truck was waiting after it caught fire caved in very deeply after the explosion, destroying that portion of the road and tearing the truck into small invisible particles.
The explosion brought together health, safety and security services including the Ghana National Fire Service, Ghana Police service, and Ambulance Service among others to see to it that victims were rescued safely.
Due to the collapse of houses, the Municipal Chief Executive, Dr Isaac Dasmani and the Municipal NADMO office found a temporary place for victims at the Bogoso Roman Catholic Parish Hall to pass the night. They were provided with food items, mattresses, and some clothing, after which the Appiatse Disaster Relief Committee was formed to see to the proper management of the victims.
They were later moved to the Dumase settlement, a new community being constructed by Future Global Resources to settle temporarily. Donations began pouring in from various companies, organizations, government agencies, international organisations and individuals to support the victims. Goldfields Ghana Ltd and the Red Cross Society donated some tents that were erected to serve as a temporary residence for the victims at the new settlement called the Appiatse Relief Camp.
Currently, they have all been moved from the tents to the uncompleted resettlement buildings, where they feel more secure than in the tents.
He said the relief committee had to rely on donor support to take care of the victims.
He explained that “all the donations that people brought were brought to the warehouse at the camp where we distribute to all those there and those outside. Unfortunately, some of the injured people were not living in Appiatse, some are living in Tarkwa, Takoradi and Kumasi, so every month, we provided food and the necessary things for them based on the data we have”.
The injuries
Many had their legs, arms, and other parts of their bodies broken as a result of the explosion with some still having parts of metals within their bodies. Sadat Sule, a nineteen-year-old boy for instance, had his belly open with his intestines hanging out.
“The blast lifted me and landed me on a foundation, so when I woke up, I saw that blood was dripping from the white vest I was wearing. I lifted my vest and realized that my intestines were out,” he recounted how he saw the explosion.
Another victim recounted “when I heard the blast, I didn’t see anything again. I woke up and realized I was bleeding in my thigh, a metal had entered my thigh like that. They did an operation to remove it. I was admitted for about a week and I was discharged. But the problem I have now is that I experience pains in my heart and feel dizzy with some kind of pressure and small illness.”
There are others who cannot hear or see well due to what they went through.
According to the MCE, “about eight people are paralyzed who cannot walk, so those are the people we are concentrating on now to provide them with support”.
Life after the disaster
One year on, life has not been easy for the victims as they lost everything they had, bringing their lives to ground zero. People who were in their businesses lost everything to the explosion, including money.
Madam Christina Koba, one of the victims said “before the disaster, we had something small we could use for our upkeep but now there is nothing. Though we have been receiving support but now things are hard, so we are appealing to the government to come to our aid.”
Although people lost their businesses, most of them have been able to put bits and pieces together to start their lives again.
One of the victims, Hannah Akrule who was a seamstress prior to the disaster, now has to go to the Bogoso market every Saturday for alterations to get money to take care of her children. She is also operating a fufu pounding machine and a small store to make ends meet.
Another victim, Florence Afful said she had gone for a loan to boost her business but she lost everything to the disaster. She had to go for another loan of Two Thousand Ghana Cedis to start a small store at the relief camp in order to feed the family.
Some of these women who have begun these small businesses were supported by the International Organization for Migration and other organisations, to start their lives again.
Support Funds
Two funds were set up to receive donations for the victims; the Appiatse Disaster Relief Fund to take care of the victims and the day-to-day running of the relief camp chaired by the MCE and the Appiatse Support Fund, chaired by Dr Joyce Aryee for the rebuilding of Appiatse community.
But this has caused lots of confusion in the minds of the people. According to Thywil Quashie, “most of the donations were made to the Appiatse Support Fund and not to the Relief Fund creating confusion in the minds of the victims that the committee receives a lot of money but they don’t share it for the victims.”
He confirmed that “we receive cash donations, but those monies are used in paying the hospital bills of the victims and transportation for their reviews at the hospital.”
He added that “just last week, the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Samuel Abu Jinapor visited the camp and donated Fifteen Thousand Cedis (GHC15,000). If we are to share this money to one thousand and thirty-six (1,036) victims, each one will receive fourteen cedis (GHC14), what can you do with that money?”
He called for more cash donations to the Disaster Relief Fund to pay the huge bills of those who are still in critical condition.
Rebuilding of Appiatse
The Vice President, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia on Friday, January 21, 2022, paid a visit to the victims where he, on behalf of the government assured them of rebuilding the Appiatse community.
One year down the line, the reconstruction is progressing steadily. GhanaWeb’s visit to the reconstruction site indicates that some of the buildings were at the roofing level, and others at the lentil and footing stages. Brick moulding machines were erected on site with workers busily moulding the bricks to ensure a constant supply of bricks.
Public Relations Officer of the Appiaste Disaster Relief Committee, Thywil Quashie noted that the new community is an ultra-modern rural community that has all the necessary facilities needed in a house.
He explained that “each house household will have a toilet and bath with kitchen, whether you had one or not before the disaster. There are two Poly tanks for every house, one will store rainwater to flush the toilet and the other for potable water. This is the kind of house they will be living in.”
According to the MCE, Dr Dasmani, the people of Appiatse are expected to move to their new abode latest by the end of 2023.
Maxam Ghana Ltd fined
Although the government fined Maxam Six Million Dollars, the chief of the community, Nana Kwagir and his community folks are of the view that the fine was not enough.
According to Nana Kwagyir, if the company comes out with a better deal to compensate the victims, it will assuage their pains.
He, therefore, called on the government to impress upon Maxam to compensate the community, due to the bad state the company has put them in.
Appreciation to donors
While requesting more support, the Deputy NADMO director, Lewis Afful expressed his profound gratitude to all companies, organisations and individuals who have been donating to the community from day one of the disasters to date.
According to him, the donations are enormous and have helped in taking care of the victims from day one of the disaster till a year now.
“But for these donations, how could we have taken care of them? We share food, clothes and others all the time the people at the camp here,” he added.
He is calling for more support, cash and kindness to give the people continuous support till they come back to their normal lives.
As part of the one-year commemoration, the committee put together a five-day programme which began on Wednesday, January 18, and will end on Sunday, January 22, 2023.
It begun with a clean-up exercise on Wednesday morning, a vigil to show a documentary on the disaster on Thursday, a safety lecture, memorial prayer and wreath laying exercise all on Friday, indoor games on Saturday and a Thanksgiving service on Sunday.
The government has reportedly rolled over cocoa bills which matured on Thursday, January 19, 2023, without the consent of investors.
According to a report by 3news.com, the move by the government has created some commotion in the investor community.
The report indicated that one of the affected persons who spoke to 3news said that the investors whose cocoa bills were matured were paid only for their accounts to be quickly debited, which led to some agitations between some bill holders and their banks.
“I received payments and was planning to move the funds to my business account to pay some bills, only for me to see that the transaction has been reversed. I don’t know how to pay my suppliers now,” the investor is quoted to have told 3news.
The report also indicated that cocoa bill investors received a notification that their bills have been rolled over at a yield of 30.78 percent with July 20, 2023, as the maturity date.
It added that holders of short-term cocoa bill instruments, which were issued on July 21, 2022, and matured on January 19, 2023, were the persons affected.
It is unclear whether the roll-over of the bill forms part of the government’s Domestic Debt Exchange Programme because short-term instruments like cocoa bills have been exempted from it.
Barcelona have confirmed they have the option to purchase Yannick Carrasco as part of the deal that saw Memphis Depay join Atletico Madrid.
Atleti announced the signing of Depay on Friday on a two-and-a-half-year deal after Diego Simeone’s side agreed to pay Barca €3million up front with a possible €1m in add-ons.
LaLiga leaders Barca included a non-compulsory purchase option for Atletico winger Carrasco, who is in his seventh season as an Atleti player, either side of a short stint in China.
Reports from Spain suggest Barcelona will have to hand over €20m should they wish to sign the 29-year-old Belgium international.
Carrasco has played in 23 of Atletico’s 26 games this season, 15 of those starts, and has the fifth-most goal involvements with five – four goals of his own and one assist.
Atleti have already allowed Joao Felix to join Chelsea on loan for the rest of the season during the January transfer window, while Matheus Cunha made the switch to Wolves
Midfielder Rashid Nortey says he has always wished to play for Asante Kotoko after completing a move to the club.
Nortey has signed two and half year deal with Porcupine Warriors to help them defend their Ghana Premier League title and win the MTN FA Cup this season.
“I’m very happy because Kotoko have been a club I have wished to play as a player for sometime” he told Original FM.
Nortey ended his six-year association with Medeama on Tuesday.
He joined the Mauve and Yellow in 2017, clocking over 100 appearances in an outstanding spell in Tarkwa.
Both parties have agreed to go separate ways following the expiration of the midfielder’s contract.
He joined for an initial three-year deal in 2017 and renewed by a further three-years in 2020.
Nortey was voted Medeama Player of the Season in 2021.
Black Stars captain Andre Ayew has congratulated Black Galaxies for securing a win over Sudan at the 2022 Championship for African Nations.
The home-based national team came from behind to defeat Sudan in the second Group C game at the tournament in Constantine.
Ghana inflicted a 3-1 win over Sudan to boost their chances of progressing to the knockout phase of the competition.
Sudan took the lead on the half-hour mark through Hussein Mohammed but goals from Konadu Yiadom, Afriyie Barnieh, and Suraj Seidu were enough for the Black Galaxies to secure victory.
Andre Ayew took to his official Instagram to quote a video posted by CAF and Ghana FA with “Congrats guys” in his Instagram Stories.
David Abagna was named man of the match at the end of the crucial encounter with Sudan. The Black Galaxies is second in Group C and has progressed to the next stage of the tournament.
Reverend Kusi Boateng, secretary of the Board of Trustees, is the subject of yet another shocking revelation from North Tongu MP, Hon. Samuel Okudjeto Ablakwa.
Rev. Kusi Boateng had two biological moms, Yaa Gyamfua and Agnes Ataah, according to Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa.
According to him, he discovered that aside from the double dates of birth and double TIN numbers, Rev. Kusi Boateng also used two different names to represent his mother’s identity in his Taxpayer Registration Form.
On the 13th of August, 2013 when he filled his Taxpayer Registration Form at the GRA under the name Victor Kusi Boateng with September 7, 1971 as the date of birth, he declared that his mother’s maiden last name is Ataah, and her first name is Agnes.
“… Last night, Paul Adom Otchere in Rev Kusi Boateng’s defence told the country for the first time that the reason why Rev Kusi Boateng had to, at some point, drop Kusi Boateng and was using Kwabena Adu Gyamfi is that, during the Rawlings coup, his father was killed as part of the military excesses. Paul revealed that Rev Kusi was then told to take his mother’s name. So, Adu Gyamfi is his maternal name. When he was going for his , told GRA that his mother’s last name is Gyamfua and her first name is Yaa. So that aligns with what Paul Adom Otchere said on Good Evening Ghana.
“So, I decided to go for what he told GRA when he was Victor Kusi Boateng and I think GRA didn’t know they are dealing with the same person. So as Victor Kusi Boateng, he told GRA in his own handwriting on the 20th of August 2013 that his mother’s maiden last name is Ataah and her first name is Agnes.
“I’m revealing it for the first time that he only doesn’t have two names, two dates of birth, he also has two mothers,” he said on Good Morning Ghana.
The National Cathedral has been one of the topical issues this week following some shocking revelations made by The North Tongu MP.
On Monday, January 16 the lawmaker accused the Secretary of the National Cathedral Board of Trustees, Rev. Victor Kusi-Boateng, of a conflict of interest and possession of multiple identities.
According to him, Rev. Victor Kusi-Boateng appears to be using questionable means to divert funds from the National Cathedral project.
He has since petitioned the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) to investigate the matter.
In his petition, Mr Ablakwa accused Rev. Kusi-Boateng of receiving GH¢2.6 million from the National Cathedral Board, alleging that he was the same person as Kwabena Adu Gyamfi.
He also claimed that Rev. Kusi-Boateng used multiple passports and identification cards with different names and dates of birth.
As compared to yesterday’s trading of a buying price of 10.3510 and a selling price of 10.3614. At a forex bureau in Accra, the dollar is being bought at a rate of 12.45 and sold at a rate of 13.05.
Against the Pound Sterling, the Cedi is trading at a buying price of 12.7958 and a selling price of 12.8096 as compared to yesterday’s trading of a buying price of 12.8373 and a selling price of 12.8523.
The Euro is trading at a buying price of 11.1959 and a selling price of 11.2070 as compared to yesterday’s trading of a buying price of 11.2352 and a selling price of 11.2473.
At a forex bureau in Accra, Euro is being bought at a rate of 12.60 and sold at a rate of 13.60.
The South African Rand is trading at a buying price of 0.5996 and a selling price of 0.6002 as compared to yesterday’s trading of a buying price of 0.6119 and a selling price of 0.6124.
At a forex bureau in Accra, South African Rand is being bought at a rate of 0.50 and sold at a rate of 1.10.
The Nigerian Naira is trading at a buying price of 44.4424 and a selling price of 44.5390 as compared to yesterday’s trading at a buying price of 44.5086 and a selling price of 44.5434.
At a forex bureau in Accra, Nigerian Naira is being bought at a rate of 13.50 Naira for every 1 Cedi and sold at a rate of 18.50.
Black Galaxies goalkeeper Ibrahim Danlad has stated that the team is determined to get more wins for Ghanaians after securing a win over Sudan in the ongoing 2022 CAF Africa Nations Championship (CHAN) tournament in Algeria.
The home-based national team came from behind to defeat Sudan in the second Group C game at the tournament in Constantine.
Ghana inflicted a 3-1 win over Sudan to boost their chances of progressing to the knockout phase of the competition
.
Sudan took the lead on the half-hour mark through Hussein Mohammed but goals from Konadu Yiadom, Afriyie Barnieh, and Suraj Seidu were enough for the Black Galaxies to secure victory.
Danlad Ibrahim made four crucial saves to keep Black Galaxies firmly in control of the game. Some fans after the game named Danlad as their man of the match.
Danlad Ibrahim took to his official Facebook page to post: “We didn’t have any option than to make Ghana proud. We are determined to put smiles on the face of everyone. We shall do it Ghana first”
David Abagna was named man of the match at the end of the crucial encounter with Sudan. The Black Galaxies is second in Group C and has progressed to the next stage of the tournament.
Nearly 18 years later, the Ministry of Health reports that it has not yet been able to recoup a loan of GH3 million issued to 202 healthcare providers and organizations.
This was covered in the 2020 Auditor-Report, General’s which the Parliament’s Public Accounts Committee is now evaluating.
Appearing before the Committee in Accra last Wednesday January 18, Financial Controller at the Ministry Daniel Azubila noted that it has been very difficult recovering the loans – adding that out of the total amount owed by the defaulters, his outfit has been able to retrieve just GH¢765,284.74.
He further indicated that most of the beneficiary institutions have cited lack of funds as reason for the non-payment.
“A category of these beneficiaries are deceased, another group is on retirement, and a majority of beneficiaries are still at post with the ministry.
Recounting the manner in which the loans were awarded, he admitted that the ministry did not act accordingly – a situation which might have resulted in beneficiaries’ failure to repay.
“The best approach was to route repayment from their salaries through the Controller and Accountant-General’s Department. But given the circumstances and the objective to motivate health workers, at that particular time the majority of them, if we were to use the Controller and Accountant-General system, would not have qualified to be given that motivation.
“Most of them had already taken loans that reduced their eligibility to qualify on those grounds. Because of this, the deductions were not routed through the Controller and Accountant-General’s Department. They were asked to repay through their banks,” he said.
Chairman of the Public Accounts Committee and Member of Parliament for Ketu North Constituency, James Klutse Avedzi, recommended the ministry to write-off the loans owed by institutions, since those institutions are meant to use government funds in the repayment.
“We (government) have been buying vehicles for the institutions, and with this one it is the same government money that they will use to pay; so, in a way, it is going to rob Peter to pay Peter,” he remarked.
The Minister of Health, Kwaku Agyemang-Manu – who was also present before the Committee, was quick to accept the Chairman’s recommendation, adding that insistence on the repayment by these institutions may pose challenges to the health sector.
“If you ask them to pay, it is the same IGF that they are generating that they are going to use, which may impact on care delivery and several other challenges. If we are not very careful, some will use their drug accounts and they will not have medicines in the hospitals and clinics. So your recommendation to write-off is most appropriate, and we also recommend the same,” Mr. Agyemang-Manu said.
He also urged the Committee to extend the recommendation to some groups of beneficiaries, including the aged – who may not be able to repay.
“As you try to recover the funds you encounter some elderly specialists, doctors who have served for years; they are on retirement – they are not earning salary. The vehicles are old, some have parked them… then you ask them to come and make payment? Clearly, they cannot pay with their pension money. Some are dead and gone; and the little monies they left for their wives, is that what you are going to collect?
“It is a big challenge. We didn’t structure the recoveries very well, and it’s like we burned our fingers,” he admitted.
Anton Donkor of Eintracht Braunschweig might probably end up in the Italian Serie A this season. According to information gathered by Footballghana.com Udinese Calcio is keeping an eye on the 25-year-old left-back.
Anton Donkor was born in Göttingen and has a contract with Hamburger Strabe until 2024.
Last season, Donkor drew interest with outstanding performances at SV Waldhof Mannheim. Despite missing out on promotion with the Kurpfälzer, he advanced to the second division by joining Braunschweig.
This season, he has been a regular there, making 19 competitive appearances.
Udinese Calcio wants to strengthen their defense in the battle to secure a Europa League spot for next season. The Little Zebras are 8th on the league table with 25 points after 18 games.
Anton Donkor’s current market value according to Transfermarkt is 500,000 euros. Donkor who can play as a left midfielder and a left winger started his football career at RSV Göttingen 05 in 2002. He then moved to two other youth sides JSG Lenglern/Harste and VfL Wolfsburg Youth.
The engagement took place on Wednesday, January 18, 2023, during a visit by the PIC to the Terminal.
The engagement followed many alleged procedural violations by shippers and transporters. The claimed violations include overstaying of trucks after scanning and delays in shipping line notification for containers with export tags, as well as the use of flimsy vehicles to pick up containers.
The Committee, led by the Board Chairperson of the GSA, Ms. Stella Wilson and the Commissioner of the Customs Division of the GRA, Alhaji Seidu Iddrisu Iddisah had fruitful discussions on the reports received on the state of the services at the Terminal with the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of MPS, Mr. Mohammed Samara.
Ms. Wilson spoke on areas of collaboration between the GSA and the MPS to ensure effective resolution of the challenges. She said; “Our aim is to have a better understanding of the technicalities involved in your operations to enable us to assist shippers with their complaints”.
The CEO of MPS, Mr. Mohammed Samara said that management was working to ensure that their services are made mutually beneficial to all stakeholders.
To that end, the Terminal has leveraged on advanced technologies such as the Truck Appointment System (TAS) to enhance the operations at the Port.
He further said that the adaptation of the TAS has led to a reduction in the time required for the clearing of goods, putting Ghana on her way to becoming a hub for trade in West Africa.
The Committee was led on a tour of some areas of the Terminal including the Standard Operating Procedure office, the Export Scanners Terminal, Drivers Help Desk, Quayside, the Import Scanners Building and the Holding Area to give them a first-hand experience of how activities are conducted at the Terminal.
