Category: Entertainment

The Inspector General of Police, Dr George Akuffo Dampare has stated that the newly launched television channel of the Ghana Police Service will be used to promote the entertainment and arts industry.

Speaking to some musicians and industry players on Police TV, the IGP emphasised that one would have to meet a certain standard to merit such promotion on the platform.

“So what we are doing is that we are bringing onboard the Ghanaian acts who meet the standard; over here if you don’t meet the standard, yours songs will not be played,” he stated.

Without being specific about the given standard, the IGP emphasised that qualified acts will enjoy the benefits of having their music videos aired and also have their events promoted on the platform for free.

“We will give them this platform to air all their albums and when they are doing any programme and they want we will advertise for them for free. So we advertise for you and then you bring your music videos so that we play them for you. That’s what we are going to do,” he said.

Under the leadership of Dr George Akuffo Dampare, the Ghana Police service has undertaken immense logistics and image transformation with the TV station owned and managed by the Service being the latest initiative.

Source: Ghana Web

The chiefs and people of Elmina crowned their Bakatue Festival with an elaborate, magnificent grand durbar on Saturday, calling on the government to lift the ban on Saiko.

Nana Kwadwo Conduah VI, the Omanhen of the Edina Traditional Area, who made the call, indicated that the ban had thrown many canoe fishers out of business and worsened their plights.

Saiko, the transshipment of unwanted fish by industrial trawlers to canoe operators at sea, has been proscribed by government for its negative impact on the country’s fish stock.

The current arrangement is that such unwanted fish, not exceeding a specified quota, are sent to the Tema Harbour to be sold to fishmongers.

But Nana Conduah argued that given the kind of commercial enterprise Saiko had created, the ban should be lifted and replaced with a regulatory regime.

‘Right now, our fishermen are suffering because many of them have been thrown out business.

‘Besides, the Saiko offered affordable fish to poor old men and women here but now they struggle to buy fish,’ he said.

The Bakatue is the major festival of the chiefs and people of Elmina which among other activities offers prayers and appreciation to the gods for a good fishing year.

This year’s festival is on the theme: ‘Buy made in Ghana goods and use made in Ghana products and support Ghanaian industries and create employment for the youth’.

Indeed, this year’s celebration was considered special because it also marked the 25th anniversary of Nana Conduah as Omanhen of Edinaman.

Ahead of the durbar, there was a majestic procession of the chiefs accompanied by a sea of Masquerades, traditional warriors, traditional singers and dancers, and various band groups through the principal streets of Elmina to the durbar grounds adjacent the Elmina Castle.

The chiefs, dolled up in their colourful kente clothes with gold ornaments and authentic beads to match and carried in their beautifully decorated palanquins, danced to the drums and songs as they responded to cheers from the visibly elated multitudes who had lined up on either side of the road.

The durbar was also spiced up with an electrifying performance from a women’s cultural group (Ntekuafo) to the admiration of the gathering.

There was also a fundraising exercise to support the completion of the new Elmina Palace.

Nana Conduah further appealed to government to dredge the Benya Lagoon, indicating that many people were displaced anytime it overflowed its banks.

He also reminded the Vice President, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia to redeem his pledge to provide a school bus for the Edinaman Senior High School after he (Nana Conduah) made an appeal to him.

Nana was full of praise to the President for redeeming his promise to build a fishing harbour for Elmina.

He noted that throughout his father’s 30-year reign, he had always appealed for a fishing harbour and he was grateful that it had happened in his time.

Mr Sammi Awuku, the Director General of the National Lottery Authority (NLA), who represented the the Vice President, indicated that even though Saiko contributed to the depletion of the fish stock, he would relay the request to the relevant authorities for consideration.

He also accepted the challenge to dredge the Benya Lagoon, indicating the current situation of the water had health implications.

He, however, urged the residents to act responsibly and desist from dumping refuse and other unwanted material into the lagoon for their own survival.

‘We will play a role, but citizens must also play their role,’ he stressed.

Apart from the fishing harbour, Mr Awuku further pledged that government would do more to create jobs for the youth in Elmina and adjoining communities to spur development and prosperity.

While reassuring the chief that his request for a bus would be fulfilled, he urged the people of Elmina to prioritise education.

‘Education is the only pillar and foundation of development and that is the only legacy that cannot be taken away from you.

‘Edinaman must prioritise education so that even if it is fishing you want to do, you can know the modern ways of doing it and become competitive,’ he urged.

For her part, Mrs Justina Marigold Assan, the Central Regional Minister, implored the youth to celebrate the festival devoid of sexual immoralities to avoid unwanted and teenage pregnancies.

She was happy that the festival had boosted the local economy and commended and thanked all who made it successful.

Source: Ghana News Agency

Actress and upcoming musician, Efia Odo has shared her opinion on the song ‘Aseda’, produced by the multiple award-winning gospel musician, Nacee.

The song, since its release on April 5, 2023, has been welcomed by many Ghanaians and has become one of the most listened-to gospel songs in Ghana.

Also, shortly after its release, the song accumulated one million views on the YouTube app, as well as good numbers on other music platforms.

Several celebrities who listened to the song expressed how great the music is in terms of its inspiring lyrics and one of these celebrities is Efia Odo.

In a post shared by the actress on the Thread app, she believes that the song by Nacee should win every gospel award because it’s a good song one can use to eulogize God.

“Unpopular opinion, Nacee’s song ‘Aseda’ needs to win every gospel award. That song is such a perfect praise song”, she wrote.

Several netizens seem to agree with what the actress said.

According to a netizen called Yaamodel, she agreed with the actress’ opinion by saying, “Not only a perfect praise song, it heals sis”.

“Yessss! Year under review, I’m praying he deploys more projects to irrefutably quality for artiste of the year”, another netizen reported.

Source: Ghana Web

The Honourable Minister for Ghana’s Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Dr. Ibrahim Mohammed Awal has confirmed his participation as one of the Keynote Speakers for the 4th Africa Public Sector Conference and Awards scheduled to hold in Nairobi Kenya from September 4th to 8th.

Hon. Dr. Ibrahim Mohammed Awal will be keynoting “Removing Barriers to Growth and Innovation in Public Sector Service using Ghana’s ever-growing Tourism sector as a case study.

The Tourism sector has become the 3rd largest GDP Contributor in Ghana, the minister will be sharing best practices on achieving efficiency in the Public Sector space using his success in transforming Ghana’s tourism sector as a case study.

APSCA will be held on the sidelines of the Africa Climate Week from September 4th to 8th at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre, Nairobi, Kenya

Themed Towards a Digitized, Green and Resilient Economy: The Role of Public Sector will bring together stakeholders and senior leaders in Africa’s public sector that are leading innovation along sides leading private businesses offering innovative solutions to the public sector to discuss and share insights on their role towards a sustainable economy across Africa.

APSCA 2023 is aimed at deepening the understanding of Africa’s special needs and circumstances, sharing innovation, knowledge, and experiences to deepen and expand understanding of climate challenges and opportunities (particularly relating to adaptation, loss and damage, carbon markets, and green growth) to find solutions.

Africa’s largest gathering of public sector leaders will also create a platform for mobilising climate finance, business partnerships, and investment deals on climate change.

And lift the veil on Africa’s Public Sector, by recognizing outstanding public leaders, public agencies and public servants who have showcased excellence in policy innovation and exceptional leadership at various levels of governance.

APSCA 2023 will explore digital trends, innovative ideas, govt policies bothering on the digital economy, clean energy, climate change, and best practices that are transforming service delivery and shaping the next generation of the public sector across Africa.

Africa’s public sector needs to be increasingly innovative to effectively respond to the complex challenges facing society now and in the future. As governments strive to balance priorities and the allocation of scarce resources, new approaches are needed.

Mr. Akin Naphtal, Group Executive Publisher for Public Sector Global Magazine, organizers of the thought-provoking event, noted that the role of the public sector, in the economic development of every nation, is highly crucial.

“The development of infrastructure and the provision of basic services lies in the public domain. Societies and nations cannot develop themselves unless supported and controlled by the strong state machinery.” He said.

APSCA will also feature a gala night that will honour, and recognize, outstanding public sector agencies ministries, and individuals, in various capacities of government, who have demonstrated excellence and championed transformations and innovation in their respective fields.

It will lift the veil on Africa’s Public Sector leaders and institutions that have showcased excellence in policy innovation, and shown exceptional leadership at various levels of governance.

The gala night will also shine the spotlight on businesses in the private sector collaborating with the government and transforming communities and businesses with sustainability strategies, supporting the transition to a more climate resilient, lower carbon, and sustainable, socially inclusive economy.

Other confirmed speakers include Dr. Ibrahim Mohammed Awal, Minister for Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Ghana, Hon. Felix Koske, Chief of Staff and Head of Public Service, State House, Nana Kwesi Agyekum Dwamena, Head, Office of the Head of Civil Service, Ghana, Hon. Aisha Jumwa Katana, Cabinet Secretary, Ministry of Public Service, Gender and Affirmative Action, Mr. Amos N. Gathecha, EBS, NDC (K), Principal Secretary, State Department for Public Service. Kenya, Ambassador Anthony Mwaniki Muchiri, Chairperson, Public Service Commissions, Mamo Boru Mamo, DG, National Environment Management Authority (NEMA), Kenya, Mr. Hayford Siaw, Executive Director, Ghana Library Authority, Ing. Oscar Amonoo- Neizer, Executive Secretary Energy Commission, Ghana, and Samuel Dubik Mahama, Managing Director, Electricity Company of Ghana.

The event will bring together all levels of government stakeholders to network, connect, and showcase international and local case studies on how to be more citizen-centric, innovative, transformative, and sustainable.

APSCA 2023 is Powered by Public Sector Global a publication of InstinctWave Ltd.

About Public Sector Global

Public Sector Global magazine; A publication from the InstinctWave Stable, is an online news portal and a monthly publication that delivers cutting-edge news, analysis, reports, and exclusive interviews about challenges, opportunities, and progress in the global public sector space. We keep stakeholders informed of various government activities and initiatives.

Our dedicated team of expert journalists and cross-border editorial board places PSG at the forefront of the evolution and transformation trendy across public services every day, offering readers a true insight into the challenges and opportunities they face, while simultaneously offering independent analysis on a wide range of solutions developed to help improve public service delivery.

Through digital dissemination, we provide exclusive articles spanning leadership, policy, innovation, procurement, reform, social care, and many other areas of importance to our readers.

Source: Ghana Web

Nigerian artiste, Iyanya, has narrated the many ordeals he faced after his romantic relationship with Ghanaian actress, Yvonne Nelson turned sour, which resulted in a breakup.

In a recent interview with GHOne TV, Iyanya revealed that he was constantly harassed by Ghanaians online and a lot of them unfollowed him afterwards.

He said: “When Yvonne said I broke her heart, I was in my room and I just saw a post, ‘Inyanya cheated on me’. Let me tell you something, I remember that day, I was checking my Twitter.

“I lost almost 10,000 Ghanaian followers. I was getting threats and all of that. And usually, I don’t come out to say that, ‘this lady I was dating, she had this flaw or this is what she did’. After that, you guys will say this guy is talking like a woman.”

Iyanya was mentioned in Yvonne Nelson’s newsest book, ‘I Am Not Yvonne Nelson’. The actress dedicated an entire chapter to talk about the relationship she once shared with the ‘Kukure’ hitmaker.

Source: Ghana Web

Afropiano King Vudumane has urged astute radio and TV personalities to support the careers of veteran musicians, as they have a lot to offer the music industry.

Vudumame made this call in a viral video on Twitter, where he called on radio and TV industry stalwarts to support the trailblazers of Hiplife music.

According to the “Oh No” hitmaker, top entertainment industry personalities like Andy Dosty, Mr. Logic, Bullgod, Abeiku Santana, Jay Foley, Kwame Dadzie and Papa Bills, among others, could be game changers for sustaining the careers of our veteran musicians.

“These top entertainment media personalities have the power to help uplift the careers of most older musicians, bring attention to their work, help them reach a wider audience, and ensure that their work is not forgotten.

“If we start treating the likes of Obrafour, Ofori Amponsah, Skrewfaze, Samini, and Tinny, among others, with some legendary respect, the younger ones would be highly motivated to do more than they have done in the past. Vudumane stated

King Vudumane’s call to support veteran musicians has sparked a conversation on social media about the importance of recognising and promoting the work of these music pacesetters.

He has earned praise from the likes of Obrafour, Skrewfaze, and others as he continues rallies support for the growth and sustainability of Ghanaian music, especially Hiplife.

Source: Ghana Web

Ghanaian youTuber and social commentator, Kwadwo Sheldon, has expressed his views on Afia Schwarzenegger, stating that he does not consider her a celebrity.

In a recent video shared by blogger Marigyata, the outspoken social commentator, made his stance clear, dismissing any notion of Afia Schwarzenegger being classified as a celebrity.

Kwadwo Sheldon started by acknowledging that by speaking about Afia Schwarzenegger, she would be retaliating and criticising him.

“As I am about to talk about Afia Schwarzenegger, she will come and diss me and will say if you don’t have a house don’t talk about her issues,” he said.

He predicted that she would likely make a remark such as, “If you don’t have a house, don’t talk about my issues.”

However, Sheldon seemed unfazed by such potential comments and proceeded to state his opinion.

According to Sheldon, Afia Schwarzenegger should not be regarded as a celebrity but rather as a social commentator.

“Afia Schwar is a celebrity? She is just a social commentator, let’s just categorise her as such. So Afia Schwarzenegger is a social commentator,” he added.

He emphasized that in his books and under his watch, she does not meet the criteria to be considered a celebrity.

Sheldon firmly stated, “I mean, she can’t be a celebrity. Not in my books, not under my watch. So long as I am alive, she is not a celebrity. She won’t. She will never be a celebrity.”

The video shared by Marigyata captured Kwadwo Sheldon’s straightforward assessment of Afia Schwarzenegger’s status within the entertainment industry.

While Afia Schwarzenegger may have gained attention through her outspoken nature and controversial statements, Sheldon firmly believes that she falls under the category of a social commentator rather than a celebrity.

Source: Ghana Web

Piesie Esther, winner of the 2023 Vodafone Ghana Music Awards, says winning the award has made her job more demanding.

People, especially those close to her, have been asking when her next project will be, according to the musician.

Piesie Esther stated on Rainbow Radio 87.5Fm’s mid-morning show that she believes she put in a lot of work but had no idea she would be declared the category winner.

The musician explained that “the demand for new songs has increased after winning the awards at the VGMAs. Trust me, those who are closer are requesting new projects.”

When asked if she expected the ‘Waye Meyie’ song to be so popular and successful, she said she expected the song to have an impact, but she was surprised by the level of popularity it generated.

In an interview with host Sokoohemaa Kukua, she stated that winning the award does not come with money but can serve as a means for a musician to get more opportunities to make money.

Piesie Esther used the opportunity to disagree with those who claimed that gospel musicians did not need to participate in award schemes.

She was responding to the controversies surrounding her nomination for Artiste of the Year.

She believes that gospel musicians should be proud to be involved in such schemes if they do not promote things that are contrary to their faith.

“Being nominated was a good thing,” she said. It is on Earth but in a good way. If you are nominated, it will catapult your ministry to new heights. There is nothing wrong with a gospel musician receiving an award nomination. They are people who do not understand, but I believe that people will gradually come to understand these things.”

She went on to say that some even went so far as to say that the scheme was between the devil and God, saying, “This has nothing to do with God.” God has nothing to do with it. There was no way the other side could have won if God had been present. But God has nothing to do with it. We should accept that it is being done to reward outstanding musicians, and no one should be concerned that Christians are involved.

Christians should be proud to support Christians who have been nominated for office. Surprisingly, Christians are the ones who discourage nominated Christians. If the scheme does not require you to consult a magician or someone who practices voodoo, we have nothing to worry about.”

Source: Ghana Web