Media personality Afua Asantewaa Aduonum is set to moderate the Cape Breton Island Music Tourism Convention in Canada.
Taking to Facebook, she shared the news alongside a flyer of herself and details about the event.
The convention aims to showcase Ghana’s music tourism potential, explore opportunities, and strengthen Ghana-Canada relations. Organized by Music Cities Events, the event is scheduled to take place from May 29 to 31.
Despite encountering a setback in her endeavor to surpass the record for the longest singing marathon in December 2023, during which she achieved a duration of 126 hours and 52 minutes, Afua persists undaunted.
The Guinness World Record specified that her inability to comply with the stipulated “break timings” nullified her attempt, a standard regulation for all their longest marathon records. Nonetheless, she persists in making numerous public appearances.
Ghanaian singer, songwriter, philanthropist, and entrepreneur Irene Logan tied the knot with her sweetheart, Prince, during the weekend.
For their first dance, Irene delivered a breathtaking performance of Etta James’ timeless classic “At Last.”
The wedding reception, attended by friends and family like Yvonne Nelson, Efya, and Stacey Amoateng, was held on Saturday.
Just 24 hours earlier, a lovely traditional ceremony unfolded on Friday, April 19, 2024, following the surprise visuals of Irene’s bridal shower on social media.
Irene Logan gained prominence after emerging victorious in the inaugural Stars of the Future competition in 2006. Her debut single, “Runaway,” achieved widespread success in Ghana, followed by her hit track “Kabila.” Additionally, her recording of “My Mind Dey” served as the soundtrack for the popular film series Adams Apples.
Logan’s musical collaborations have included performances with esteemed artists such as Jay Z, Beenie Man, Hugh Masakela, Lagbaja, and among others.
The wedding reception, held on Saturday, was attended by notable figures such as Yvonne Nelson, Efya, and Stacey Amoateng, adding to the celebration.
Ghanaian artist Captain Planet, known for his role in the musical group 4×4, is currently grieving the loss of his mother.
He took to his Instagram page to share the devastating news, expressing his profound sorrow. In a heartfelt post accompanied by a photo of his beloved mother, Captain Planet reflected on her passing, describing it as his “biggest fear in life.”
He wrote, “Death took a shot at me yesterday and wounded me so badly. I still trust you, Lord. Eternal rest grant unto her. Rest well, Mama, my forever first love.”
Reggae icon Rocky Dawuni has urged fellow musicians to steer clear of conflicts and rivalries within the industry, stressing the importance of unity and collaboration.
In an interview with 3Xtra, Dawuni denounced the trend of engaging in verbal spats and insults, whether through song lyrics or on social media. The ‘Beat of Zion’ artist argued that using art to divide undermines its greater purpose and advocated for constructive collaboration instead.
“I don’t believe that artists should focus on attacking each other. Artists should learn to work with each other, that’s how you build a solid peace-driven environment,” he said.
Dawuni emphasized that creating a toxic environment only fosters negativity and highlighted the significance of promoting harmony within the creative community.
“Any kind of toxic environment feeds negativity. We are projecting our art to young people, we’re projecting our art to the leaders of tomorrow so if we make that art a means of division, then we lose the higher point of what it is,” he said.
The three-time Grammy Nominee underscored the significance of promoting harmony within the creative community, emphasizing its potential to inspire optimism among Ghanaians.
“I don’t condone any of that, and I believe that there has to be certain people who have to say that ‘my art; what I do, my brand is about positivity. It’s about uniting people. It’s about bringing our people together. It’s about a primary objective of uplifting all Ghanaians and so in that sense’, he stressed.
He emphasized the need for certain individuals to champion the message that their art is about bringing people together and uplifting all Ghanaians.
“I’ll always say that some people might have their methodology; some people might have their aspects, but for me, I always promote harmony and unity,” he concluded.
Esteemed Gospel musician Kofi Owusu Dua Anto, widely known as KODA, has sadly passed away after a brief illness in the early hours of Sunday.
KODA, recognized for his prowess in songwriting, record producing, and soulful vocals, held a prominent position within the Ghanaian gospel music realm. His most recent album, “Keteke,” released in January 2021, enjoyed both critical acclaim and commercial success. Fondly remembered for his infectious enthusiasm and the messages of hope and perseverance imbued in his music, Kofi Owusu Dua Anto leaves behind a profound legacy.
Further details concerning the cause of his illness and funeral arrangements are anticipated to be shared by the family soon.
Nigerian chess master Tunde Onakoya has broken the Guinness World Record for the longest chess marathon, surpassing the previous milestone set at 56 hours, 9 minutes, and 37 seconds by Norwegians Hallvard Haug Flatebø and Sjur Ferkingstad in 2018.
Onakoya achieved this feat at 7:39 PM EST (12:39 AM WAT), marking 56 minutes and 10 seconds since the chess marathon began at 11:30 AM EST (4:30 PM WAT) on Wednesday, April 17, 2024. Teaming up with US chess master Shawn Martinez, Onakoya is still going strong and aims to set a new world record of 58 hours, which he plans to extend to 60 hours to accommodate any interruptions.
They’ve been engaged in a continuous game of chess in Times Square, New York City, for over 56 hours, garnering attention and support from Nigerians and New Yorkers alike. Onakoya remains undefeated after playing more than 200 games.
Onakoya sees the Guinness World Record attempt as a platform to raise $1 million in support of children in underprivileged communities across Africa, ensuring they have access to education. “We’re doing this to raise funds for our project to be able to give millions of children with access to education the opportunity they deserve to learn. Let us raise the money that is needed so all of this won’t be in vain. We’re doing this to the very end, we started already. The rest is just a matter of tenacity,”he expressed.
Through his non-profit organization, Chess in Slums Africa, and charity organization, The Gift of Chess, Onakoya has already raised over $81,000, thanks to the generous contributions from individuals and organizations.
Onakoya’s pursuit of the world record has garnered widespread recognition from supportive individuals and millions of Nigerians worldwide, who continue to cheer him on as he approaches the 58-hour mark. His games are live-streamed on platforms like Tittify and Twitch, attracting over 500 concurrent viewers.
Notably, Onakoya has received endorsements for success from some of Nigeria’s elites, including former vice presidents Yemi Osinbajo and Atiku Abubakar, Lagos state governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Ogun State governor Dapo Abiodun, Tony Elumelu, chairman of Heirs Holdings, popular Nigerian artist Davido, and others.
Gospel singer and Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP), Kofi Sarpong, has fervently called upon his fellow Ghanaians to value and safeguard the existing peace, while cautioning against the severe consequences of war on both the economy and social structure of the nation. Drawing from his experience at a peacekeeping camp in Sudan, Sarpong underscored the profound consequences of armed conflict, emphasizing the imperative to safeguard the peace they currently enjoy.
Reflecting on his time at a peacekeeping camp in Sudan, he emphasized the devastating consequences of armed conflict, urging Ghanaians to cherish and protect the peace they currently enjoy.
During an interview with Hitz FM’s Andy Dosty on Daybreak Hitz, the popular ‘First Love’ singer highlighted how war disrupts law and order, resulting in a lack of accountability and increased violence.
“I had an opportunity to be at a peace-keeping area. I’ve seen what war can do. It can devastate a whole country. If you saw these people that are staying in camps , some were rich but because of war they sleep where human beings shouldn’t stay or live. The conditions are so terrible,” he recounted.
He proceeded to recount a harrowing incident he witnessed firsthand during a period of conflict: two individuals armed with AK-47 guns engaged in a violent altercation, resulting in one fatally shooting the other. Drawing from these experiences, he passionately urges Ghanaians to value the peace they currently enjoy and to select their leaders with discernment, advocating for unity and civility in governance.
“Let us guard and guide what we have and choose who we want to lead us, devoid of rancor, insult, fighting and all that and let us stay in this peace,” he advised.
Shatta Movement Records has released a statement addressed to members of the Ghana Society of the Physically Disabled.
The statement, signed by Samuel Atuobi Baah, the manager of dancehall artist Shatta Wale, and dated Thursday, April 18, 2024, directly addresses Shatta Wale’s mocking remarks towards Stonebwoy’s disability.
Following Shatta Wale’s disparaging comments towards Stonebwoy at the recently concluded Sallah Fest, the Ghana Society of Physically Disabled took a firm stance, giving Shatta Wale a seven-day ultimatum to retract his statements and issue an apology.
In response, the SM Empire acknowledges the insensitive language used and clarifies that the intention was not to mock individuals with disabilities but to emphasize the importance of respectful behavior.
“Shatta Movement Empire would like to address a statement made by our artist during a recent performance that may have been misinterpreted. The intention behind the statement was not to mock or belittle individuals with disabilities, but rather to emphasize the importance of Stonebwoy acting right and treating others with respect at all times,” the statement reads.
“We understand that the wording of the statement may have been insensitive and we acknowledge the concerns raised. It was not our intention to cause any harm, and we value and respect the contributions and rights of individuals with disabilities in our society,” the statement continued.
“We are committed to promoting inclusivity and understanding, and we will strive to be more mindful of our words and actions in the future. Thank you for bringing this to our attention, and we appreciate your understanding,” it concludes.
Quables, co-founder of DWP Academy, has recently disclosed some issues he encountered with Afronita, ultimately resulting in her departure from the group.
During an interview with Kwadwo Sheldon, he revealed that Afronita’s mother objected to him managing another dancer, Endurance Grand, who is also part of the academy.
Despite offering a contract, both Afronita and her mother refused to sign it. Quables explained that he had treated Afronita like family but couldn’t meet her mother’s expectations which included buying clothes for her.
He confirmed that Afronita was paid for her work, but her mother insisted she wouldn’t continue if Endurance was managed. Quables clarified that Afronita’s mother directly conveyed this to him.
“They didn’t want to sign the contract, I got fed up and stopped pursuing it but i literally took the girl like my sister.
“Her mom told me people tell her this is what a manager is supposed to do and that I’ve bought clothes for her daughter only once . I’m like I’m not supposed to be buying clothes for your daughter.”
“Aside this, I was told that if I’ll manage Endurance then her daughter will not do it again,” he continued.
Furthermore, he mentioned receiving requests to stop assigning Afronita’s jobs to Endurance.
“And when people call you, stop giving Afronita’s job to Endurance,” he added.
Following her departure from DWP Academy, Afronita has recently launched her own dance company, ‘Afro Star Kids Academy.’
Abel Dzidotor, recognized as the driver at fault for the train accident, has been sentenced to six months in jail.
As per Benjamin Aklama’s report on Citi News, Dzidotor confessed to three of the four charges against him, including reckless driving and unlawfully causing damage. The initial charge, related to careless driving, incurred a fine of 100 units or a potential 20-month prison term if not paid. The second charge, concerning unauthorized stopping, resulted in a fine of 20 units or a five-month jail term if unpaid. Dzidotor received a six-month sentence with hard labor for causing unlawful damage.
Despite pleading not guilty to failing to produce a driver’s license, claiming it was in the damaged vehicle, he must present the license to the court by May 9, 2024, to avoid consequences.
The driver of the Hyundai truck, identified by registration number GS 9018 – 20, was apprehended by the Ghana Police Service on suspicion of causing the accident on the Tema-Mpakadan railway line involving the recently imported train. This incident occurred during a test run of the train, which had just arrived from Poland.
In an official statement, the police stated that their initial investigation found the driver had left the vehicle unattended on the railway line, resulting in a collision with the train. Allegedly, the truck driver had gone to deliver cement blocks, and the vehicle became stuck on the rail after failing to pass through a passage under the bridge.
The Ghana Railway Development Authority (GRDA) has announced that they will start assessing Ghana’s newly acquired train, which was in an accident on Thursday, beginning Friday (April 18th).
Initial evaluations by the GRDA indicate that the train has suffered minor damage.
The police have apprehended the driver of a Hyundai truck bearing registration number GS 9018 – 20, suspected of causing the accident on the Tema-Mpakadan railway line on Thursday (April 18th). Police investigations suggest that the driver abandoned the vehicle on the railway line, leading to a collision with the train.
During an interview on the Asaase Breakfast Show with Kwaku Nhyira-Addo on Friday (April 19th), Yaw Owusu, the CEO of GRDA, shed light on the situation.
He mentioned, “The good news is that the train can be repaired here in Ghana; there is no need to take it to Poland.”
Additionally, Owusu stated, “We are going to assess the level of damage to know how long it will take to repair the train.”
Nigerian vocalist Tiwa Savage recently revealed that her entry into the music industry was influenced by a crush she had on a man who often associated with musicians.
During an interview with MTV Live to promote her latest movie project, “Water and Garri,” the singer revealed that her original ambition was to pursue acting rather than music.
She confessed, “I’ve always wanted to do acting. Acting was one of my first loves before music. I got into music because I had a crush on a guy, and he was always around musicians, so I said, ‘yeah, forget acting and just go into music.”
Despite her original inclination towards acting, Tiwa expressed gratitude for the opportunity to be the Executive Producer of her new movie, “Water and Garri,” describing it as a “dream come true.” The movie is currently available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video.
Despite the unconventional circumstances that led her into the music industry, Tiwa Savage has become one of Nigeria’s most prominent and successful artists, accumulating numerous awards and accolades along the way. Her resilience and talent have solidified her position as a significant figure in the Nigerian music scene.
The Ghana Police Service arrested the driver of a Hyundai truck on Thursday, April 18, 2024, accused of abandoning his vehicle on the Tema-Mpakadan railway line, which led to a collision with a train.
Preliminary investigations, as per a police statement, indicate that the driver left the truck unattended on the railway tracks, resulting in a collision with a recently procured Diesel Multiple Unit (DMU) train from Poland.
The police have yet to identify the suspect but stated that they are continuing the investigation into the incident.
According to the Ministry of Railways Development, the train was undergoing a test run when it collided with the unattended truck parked in its path on a curve, around 12:10 pm.
Although the emergency braking system was promptly activated, the train was unable to come to a complete stop before colliding with the vehicle, as confirmed by the Ministry in their statement. Thankfully, there were no fatalities resulting from the accident, although the driver’s cabin sustained damage and the truck was completely destroyed.
Find below the statement from the police regarding the incident:
A TRUCK DRIVER ARRESTED FOR ALLEGEDLY CAUSING TRAIN ACCIDENT ON THE TEMA-MPAKADAN RAILWAY LINE
The Ghana Police Service has arrested the driver of a Hyundai truck with registration number GS 9018 – 20 for allegedly causing an accident involving a Diesel Multiple Unit (DMU) train on the Tema-Mpakadan railway line today Thursday 18th April 2024.
Police preliminary investigation has established that the suspect driver left the said vehicle unattended on the railway line, leading to a collision with the train.
The family of the two victims in the comedian Funny Face’s accident has declared their choice not to file charges against him, despite facing pressure from different quarters to do so.
Nana Akomea, speaking on behalf of the family, revealed that they’ve been bombarded with calls pushing for Funny Face’s prosecution, yet they’ve chosen not to pursue legal measures. Instead, they feel Funny Face should focus on his spiritual development and strive for redemption.
While Funny Face was visiting the victims in the Central region, Mr. Akomea underscored the importance of seeking divine guidance and personal growth. He encouraged Funny Face to make his spiritual well-being a priority and endeavor to better himself.
“Funny Face is a good man who must pay attention to God. I believe that what he needs now is to seek the face of God in his life and become a better person,” he said.
Meanwhile, Funny Face was released on bail after spending two weeks in police custody following the accident on the Kasoa highway, in which his vehicle collided with five individuals, causing severe injuries. He is set to appear in court again in four weeks as investigations into the incident proceed.
The Ghana Society of the Physically Disabled (GSPD) has given Dancehall artist Shatta Wale an ultimatum of seven days to retract and apologize for his derogatory remarks towards Stonebwoy.
As you may recall, Shatta Wale targeted his fellow artist, Stonebwoy, for ridicule over his disability following Stonebwoy’s boycott of the Abeka Salahfest. Stonebwoy’s decision stemmed from Shatta Wale’s inclusion in the event’s lineup as a performer.
In a widely circulated video, Shatta Wale directed a barrage of offensive and unprintable language towards Stonebwoy, including a physical threat to kick him.
During an interview on Onua FM, the Ghana Society of the Physically Disabled (GSPD) responded by demanding an apology from Shatta Wale for his derogatory remarks towards individuals with disabilities.
GSPD President, Mathhew Annor, issued a stern warning, stating that failure to apologize within the given seven days may lead to legal action. Annor emphasized their direct communication with Shatta Wale’s PR director and outlined their plan to escalate the matter if necessary.
“We have given him 7 days. We spoke to one of his directors of his PR unit, Mr. Adu Gyamfi Kwame, he said he will speak to him to see the way forward
“If he doesn’t respond in seven days, we will write a formal letter to his directors and producers and if he fails to heed to their advice then we will resort to the court,” he said.
GSPD issued a statement on Monday, April 15, cautioning Shatta Wale. They demanded that he retract his remarks, apologize to all individuals with disabilities, and take steps to remove the video from social media platforms. Additionally, they reminded him that making derogatory remarks about someone’s disability is a punishable offense under the Disability Act 715. In response to Shatta Wale’s mockery, GSPD stated that such a primitive statement should not have come from a high-profile figure like him. They labeled his actions as irresponsible and urged Ghanaians to condemn his behavior
