See Images : Havana Club Video Series Featuring Selly Galley And Elikem Kumordzie

Havana Club, one of the world’s most famous authentic Cuban rums, has produced a series of short videos featuring local personalities including actress/presenter Selly Galley, celebrity tailor/actor, Elikem Kumordzie and actress/producer Maame Adjei of the hit TV Show, An African City.

The video series filmed at Little Havana, West Africa’s first Afro-Latino restaurant, also features award-winning mixologist, Johnson Ace Bartender preparing custom and classic rum cocktails.

“At Little Havana, we are the West African brand ambassador for Havana Club and provide a platform to further promote the brand and Cuban cultural connection with West Africa.

It was exciting to highlight some of these cultural connections through food, drinks, and cigars from Cuba with local personalities in the video series,” says Marcus  Morgan-Etty who is the owner and chef at Little Havana.

Trigmatic Backs Pastor Mensah Otabil, ‘Guilty Or Not Guilty’

Ghanaian musician Nana Yaw Oduro- Agyei, popularly referred to Trigmatic, has defended embattled founder and pastor of the International Central Gospel Church, Pastor Mensah Otabil.

Pastor Mensah Otabil has come under intense criticisms from a section of Ghanaians over his role in the collapse of Capital Bank owing to his position as then board chairman of the bank.

Trigmatic, who made an appearance on Celebrity Fanzone on GH One TV, argued that, the issue at stake is an allegation and until proven guilty, he will stand by the man of God.

He told co-host Akosua Hanson, “First of all let’s not forget that the highlighted word here is ‘alleged’ or ‘may have’ been party. It could be that after investigations he may not be a part of it. I must say that he is one of the greatest leaders Africa has ever produced. The issue at stake here is that, it is alleged. I would say until proven guilty…I would not give a damn.”

GHANA DANCE FESTIVAL 2018 KICKS OFF SEPTEMBER 1st AT THE OSU OXFORD STREET

The 2018 Ghana Dance Festival is officially scheduled to begin on the 1st of September, with an exciting full day’s program, running from as early as 6am to 4am the following morning.

In its 4th year, organisers are happy to step up the experience with a more comprehensive day’s program:

•    Dance Aerobics……………………………………… 6am to 8:30 (Dansonman)

• Flashmobs…………………………………………….. 10am 12pm (Somewhere in town)

•    Dance workshops…………………………………… 1pm to 4pm (Osu Oxford Street Mall)

•    Dance Competition.……………………………….. 5pm to 7pm (Osu Oxford Street Mall)

•    Official Ceremony……………………………………8pm to 9pm (Osu Oxford Street Mall)

Singer Gin Ideal Unveils A Summer Feel-good Song 'Balance It' Featuring Ketchup

Taurus Musik’s new signee Gin Ideal has dropped yet another summer feel good song just three months after releasing the club banger ‘Shuga’.

The new summer jam titled ‘Balance it’ features Nigerian’s king of Pam Pam Ketchup. The song was produced by Kenya’s number one producer and the beat King Magix Enga.

A Pulse Music Video Awards, New Artist of the Year 2015 Nominee, Best Video 2016 Nominee and winner Best Collaboration of 2016 is popular for her all time hit record 'rede" which saw veteran Kenyan dancehall star Wyre join to cook it's remix.

Claiming her fair share of the industry Gin Ideal, has grown to become one of Kenya's favourite recording and performing artists, not only keeping her artistry ability well oiled but her fashion style is notably glamorous.

Nate Voices Against Women Abuse In new #NgekeBalunge Video

South Coast King and hip-hop sensation, NATE, has just released the highly anticipated music video for #NgekeBalunge featuring Eindo and MSA. The music video sees the rising star take stance against the recent killings of women through out the country.

"With all the recent killings and violence throughout the country I hope this project gives my people more hope and strength to overcome whatever problems we are facing #NgekeBalunge," expresses NATE.

In what has been a surge of killings and violence against women and more cases of this nature now coming to light, Nate is using his platform as an artist to help raise awareness on this subject. 

#NgekeBalunge has a very empowering tone to it, the song has every inch of potential to be a candidate for an urban anthem that promises to appeal to our consciousness.

Bourgeoning GH Style Icon, GlennSamm A ttended ChaleWote 2018 To Turn Heads…And Landed In VOGUE

For one thing, the annual ChaleWote Street Art Festival is a place to showcase eccentric style. 

Crowned over the weekend with a colourful parade of all things art, the ACCRA[DOT]ALT event has been described by VOGUE as a “street style paradise.”

Burgeoning style icon and showbiz head, GlennSamm attended this year’s event with a single motive: to turn heads with his Masai-influenced ensemble. But to land in VOGUE for it?

“I was so surprised to be featured on Vogue. It is a dream come true. I told myself when l was going for the ChaleWote this year that my style will trend,” he says .

Born Glenn Samuel Semakor, popularly known as GlennSamm also dabbles in modelling, blogging and Graphic Design. Ecstatic, he considers the VOGUE appearance as a significant feat — extra fuel for his long-held ambitions.

See more images of the ensemble that got him noticed by VOGUE:

#AMVCA2018: IK Osakioduwa & Minnie Dlamini Return As Hosts For The 6th Africa Magic Viewer’s Choice Awards

Organisers of the 2018 Africa Magic Viewer’s Choice Awards have announced the hosts of the sixth edition of the prestigious award ceremony.

South African media sweetheart, Minnie Dlamini-Jones and Nigerian on-air-personality, IK Osakioduwa will be hosting the show for the third year in a row.

The AMVCA is the biggest celebration of film and television talent across Africa with the first edition holding in 2013.

The show promises to be even bigger with top contenders from across Africa battle for glory in the voting and non-voting categories.

The main event will kick off by 7 pm and will be broadcasted live on DStv and GOtv.

Viewers can join the conversation using the hashtag #AMVCA2018 and follow @dstvng , @gotvng , @africamagictv and @CypressGH for live tweets.

‘Lionheart’ Directed By Genevieve Nnaji Selected For Toronto International Film Festival

Genevieve Nnaji’s directorial debut, LIONHEART, has been announced as an official selection in the Discovery Section of the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), September 6-16, 2018.

Set in Southeast Nigeria, LIONHEART tells the story of a young woman, Adaeze Obiagu (Genevieve Nnaji), who becomes saddled with the responsibility of running her sick father’s business under the suffocating supervision of an intensely crude and eccentric uncle.

Her competing business instincts and family obligations become a catalyst for drastic change not everyone is ready to embrace.

“Film-making is what I love to do,” declared Nnaji. “I am grateful to have had the chance to share my love with millions over the years. LIONHEART is the beginning of a journey to explore and express my creative interpretation of story-telling, particularly African stories.

Wiyaala : “A Higher Power Drove Me Forward And I Became My Own Inspiration”

Wiyaala is going in the opposite direction to 95% of the Ghana music industry. Nowhere is that more apparent than in her latest release “When The Lord Get Us Ready” from her upcoming album “Sissala Goddess”.

In an age when most music is computer produced in back room studios, the Upper West songstress has gone again for a fully featured and arranged studio production incorporating live instruments and the latest recording and mastering techniques.

And it shows. Quality is writ large all over this song. Wiyaala juxtaposes a traditional African incantation with an inspirational gospel pop chorus. The core message being, whoever your God, he, she or nature has blessed you with a special talent empowering you to move forward.

Wiyaala says: "The beginnings of this song was a studio jam with Atongo Zimba in June 2015 in Amsterdam, which we took to the stage of The Hague African Festival two days later. I played the song live at some of my gigs in Ghana and decided to record it in 2017.

See Images : German Chancellor , Angela Merkel Arrives In Ghana For A State Visit

The President of the Republic of Ghana, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo will today, Thursday, August 30, receive German Chancellor Angela Merkel for bilateral discussions as part of her three-nation West African tour.

The German Chancellor will on her arrival hold bilateral discussions at the Jubilee House which will focus on Efforts at Ghana’s Economic Resurgence and Migration.

Among the issues to be discussed is security in the sub-region and Ghana’s role in addressing it. Countries which will be in focus during the discussion will be Togo, Mali and Nigeria and the recent efforts of Ghana led by President Akufo-Addo in providing leadership to address the challenges.

Minister for Information designate, Kojo Oppong Nkrumah announced at a press briefing on Wednesday that Chancellor Merkel will later participate in a panel discussion on Compact for Africa focusing on the areas of priority for partnership.

Vth Season’s Eternal Africa Signs Publishing Deal With Universal Music

Vth Season’s super producer and artist, Eternal Africa, has officially signed a publishing deal with Universal Music Publishing Group. Eternal Africa’s publishing deal comes ahead of what is expected to be a great music season for the talented producer and recording artist.

“Having a major label partner with Eternal Africa is testament to his talent and work. Eternal Africa has produced some of the biggest songs on rotation on radio right now and it’s just the tip of the iceberg of what the continent can expect from him in the near future,” shares Raphael Benza of Vth Season.

“It has been a while since we had a producer like Eternal Africa who can marry sounds so naturally from Naija to Gqom and traditional SA Pop. You can hear that here is an exceptional talent whose sound is so well crafted and clean and importantly so highly original,” expresses Ryan Hill, MD of Universal Music Publishing SA.

2018 has already seen Eternal Africa collaborate with or produce music for the below artists.

GEA 2018 To Honour Amakye Dede, Bola Ray, KKD, Uncle Ebo Whyte, Asaabea Cropper, R D Laryea And More On September 7

THE SECOND edition of the Ghana Event Awards (GEA), which unveiled its nominees for this year on Friday, August 17, 2018, at Suzuki CFAO, Airport, Accra, will honour some personalities in the industry.

According to the Chief Executive Officer of Event Guide Ghana, Kelvin Kenneth, personalities like KOD, KKD, Amakye Dede, Bola Ray, Uncle Ebo Whyte, Bob Pixel, Asaabea Cropper, DJ Blow, DJ Mensah,+233 bar, Accra City Hotel will receive an honorary awards on September 7th, 2018 on the eve of the award at Suzuki CFAO, Airport, Accra for their impactful contribution towards youth development.

In an interview, Kenneth said “the scheme awards recognize personalities who have made remarkable contributions to the Ghanaian events industry over a sustained period under the category dubbed the ‘Lifetime Achievement Awards’, [and] the personalities are decided by the board.”

He added that, “These personalities have immensely contributed to the industry and they deserve this honorary awards. This award is our small way of saying ‘thank you’ for the great roles [you have] played in the industry”.

We Didn’t Benefit Financially From The Various Activities After The Demise Of Ebony Reigns – Midas Touch

Midas Touch Inc has reacted to claims by Nana Opoku Kwarteng that the label benefited Financially from the funeral of their late signee Ebony Reigns.

In a statement copied to Cypress Ghana released on Thursday 30th August 2018, they stated that the label Midas Touch Inc. did not play any role, directly or indirectly in all business dealings before, during and after the burial of the late musician.

Read the full releases below:

CONTRACT WITH THE LATE PRISCILLA OPOKU – KWARTENG (EBONY REINGS) AND OUR ENGAGEMENT IN HER BURIAL ACTIVITIES.

We have noticed a level of misrepresentation within a section of the media with regards to our contract with the late Priscilla Opoku – Kwarteng (Ebony Reings) and our engagement in the various activities before, during and after her burial.

It has become necessary we make this clarity following a series of interviews granted to some media houses by Mr. Kwarteng, father of the late musician.

MUSIGA Calls On Communications Ministry To Fast-track Passage Of Broadcasting Bill

The Musicians Union of Ghana (MUSIGA) has called on the Ministry of Communications to hasten its efforts to pass the Broadcasting Bill which has been in the works for some time now.

According to the MUSIGA President Bice Osei Kuffour, the passage of the bill will address some of the issues concerning airplay of Ghanaian music and movies as part of promoting Ghanaian culture.

The MUSIGA President referred to a document submitted by the Film Producers Association of Ghana (FIPAG) and the Ghana Actors Guild (GAG) in September last year which highlighted issues of concern to the three organizations.

The issues include conditions such as payments of user fees to GHAMRO or ARSOG for royalties before the renewal of registrations for broadcasting operators; the definition of local content used by broadcasters and the amount of local content for broadcast which the proposal suggests should be 70% local content and 30% foreign.

Ghanaian Model Araba Sey Writes About How To Make Use Of Your Talent & Career

One of the troubling things most people become accustomed to currently is their inability to make use of their talent or career.There is a great deal of people out there who are either wasting their talent away or have given up on it because they are ignorant about how to make use of it.

Some sit idle waiting for an opportunity to come their way while others are always looking for people to help them become what they want to be.Forgetting that, these same people they are chasing after every other minute or second, are also building up themselves.

To be able to make use of your talent or career you first of all need to be your own inspiration and follow or draw inspiration from people who are in your line of work or talent by observing or asking questions.

Being your own inspiration is believing in yourself. The first step to making the impossible happen is when you believe in your potentials with a positive mind. 

Success starts from the mind which triggers that push to it manifesting physically.  It is worth mentioning that in relation to or in line with the God factor, a miracle or the success of a dream only happens with the existence and the building up of that character of faith and belief.

Shatta Wale, King Promise, Kidi, Kuami Eugene & OTHERS For “Vac With Vyrusky” Concert This Friday

Award-winning Ghana DJ/Entertainer DJ Vyrusky is assembling almost all the top GH Music stars for the first edition of “Vac with Vyrusky”

Scheduled to take place on Friday 31st August 2018 at his alma mater, St Thomas Aquinas Senior High School, the event will see performances from Shatta Wale, Kidi, Kuami Eugene, King Promise, Kurl Songx, Mzvee, Edem, Koje Cue, Lil Shaker, among others.

The event will also give young and upcoming artists the opportunity to showcase to the world their God-given talents.

According to the organisers, Papcity the event will attract about 20,000 students from the various Senior, Technical and Vocational School.

“We are expecting close to 20000 students at the Aquinas School Park on Friday for the first edition of what is said to be the biggest gathering of high school students in Ghana – Vac with Vyrusky ”

See Images : Vodafone’s Coding Programme Lands In Central Region

Vodafone Ghana has taken its recently launched National Coding Programme to the Central region as part of efforts to reach the entire country before the end of March 2019.

The telecommunications company recently announced that its new coding programme is part of a unique strategy to ignite Ghana’s digital revolution and will benefit 10,000 Ghanaians in five years.

The telecommunications company has already indicated a desire to equip the Ghanaian youth to be competitive in the ever changing global world of technology through coding.

The five-day programme, which began last Monday August 27th at Adisadel College, is training 50 teenagers between the ages of 14 – 18 years.

Kuami Eugene, King Promise, Medikal, Wendy Shay Lead Nominations At MuseAfrica’s “Bangerz Of The Quarter” Awards

 Muse Africa, the number one name in music, urban pop culture and Africa’s millennial engagement platform has announced nominees for its quarterly social media music awards dubbed: “Bangerz of the Quarter”.

The latter is designed to celebrate the biggest songs that made “MADD” waves on social media, on MuseAfrica.com and across the capital.

Bangerz of the Quarter duration for the second edition is starting May to August 2018.

In talking about the Muse Africa Bangerz of the Quarter social media awards, head of editorial for Muse Africa, George Wiredu Duah, explained the idea as a way to celebrate the biggest songs that made us dance, think and relax every quarter.

“The awards started off in the first quarter from January to April and it had winners likes Kidi, Guilty Beats, Kwesi Arthur, Yaa Pono, Stonebwoy Agbeshie and StrongMan’ – he noted.

ITALIAN NAVY: DESTROYER DURAND DE LA PENNE CALLS AT ACCRA-TEMA (GHANA) FROM 30 AUGUST TO 2 SEPTEMBER

On 30 August 2018, destroyer ITS Luigi Durand de la Penne will arrive in the port of Accra-Tema (Ghana), where she will stay until 2 September 2018.

This will be the fifth stopover of the 2018 training campaign for 123 cadets of the Naval Academy 2nd class, who will have the opportunity to further develop their professional growth, along an educational path begun last year onboard training ship Amerigo Vespucci.

This is for the cadets the first actually operational experience onboard, which is primarily aimed at acquiring skills and capabilities for future duties and assignments, while infusing and consolidating in them the Italian Navy’s core values.

ITS Durand de la Penne has been conducting her 2018 training campaign as part of a training activity, while performing functions of presence, surveillance and naval diplomacy in areas of unusual gravitation for the units of the Italian Navy, such as, for instance, the Gulf of Guinea.

Wiyaala, Grrrl And King Ayisoba Rock Shambala Festival In UK

It rained and it was cold, but that didn't dampen the spirits of thousands of fans at the three-day Shambala Festival who rapturously applauded thrilling performances by Wiyaala and King Ayisoba from Ghana.

King Ayisoba performed on the Main Stage and at the Barrio Afrika Stage on Friday whilst Wiyaala featured in four performances with international all female band GRRRL, on the Main, Rebel Soul and Sankofa stages as well as a solo performance on Rebel Soul over the weekend.

There was also a panel presentation about how GRRRL was formed and the respective journeys of all its female members.

Rapid Renewal Of Smartphone Portfolio Brings Next Generation Nokia 5, Nokia 3 And Nokia 2 To Ghanaians

HMD Global, the home of Nokia phones, has continued to rapidly renew its portfolio of Nokia Android smartphones by today announcing availability of Nokia 5.1, Nokia 3.1 and Nokia 2.1 in Ghana.

Offering access to the latest Google services, such as the Google Assistant, the trio of smartphones continues to deliver a pure, secure and up-to-date Android experience with Android One and Android Go, combined with the premium craftsmanship and design expected from a Nokia smartphone and the performance to match.

Joseph Umunakwe, General Manager, HMD Global West, East and Central Africa, says: “We are encouraged by the response that we are getting to our products. Our consumers in Ghana tell us they love their Nokia smartphones on Android. It is our constant endeavour to enhance the experience to better suit the everyday needs of our fans.

Every single detail on a Nokia smartphone has been designed with consumers in mind, which is why we are delighted to introduce these refined smartphones that deliver a dramatic step up on performance, continue to drive the most premium design elements to price points accessible to everyone and deliver the class-leading quality that you expect from us”.

Create Female Artiste Of The Year Category - Eazzy

Sexy Ghanaian songstress, Eazzy has bemoaned the much fewer opportunities given to female musicians in Ghana compared to their male counterparts.

In a recent interview on Pluzz 89.9 FMs Area Gang show, the Obaagbemi hit-maker noted that the Ghanaian music industry has never opened up to the females the way they do for the males.

She said, The industry has always been opened to one or two girls at a particular time. Its never been opened to the women as much as it is to the men. It happens with airplay and shows. You have six men headlining a show and just one female.

The singer, who expressed surprise at news that the Late Ebony Reigns was the first female to win the ultimate Artiste of the Year award at the annual Vodafone Ghana Music Awards last year, called for a lot more support for the female artistes from all stakeholders of the industry including the media and event organizers since the ladies work just as hard as the men.

Ghana To Host All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA)

Ghana has won a three-year bid to host the All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) aimed at promoting a distinct and rich African music worldwide, engaging millions of fans by propelling African music to glorious pinnacles beyond the borders of Africa.

Ghana met all parameters of the African Union Commission-AFRIMA including immigration and visa application management, availability of functional airport and good land transportation system, venue infrastructure, hotels and hospitality facilities as well as adequate provision of security for guests and officials.

The Deputy Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Dr Ziblim Barri Iddi, on Friday August 24th,  announced Ghana as host during a ceremony to inaugurate the National Planning Committee for AFRIMA 2018.

The Deputy Minister of Tourism pledged the Ministry’s support in having a successful event themed ‘Africa is Music’.

I’ve Apologized To Shatta Wale But I’ll Still Defend My Album - Epixode

Epixode has cleared the air following his recent outrage on comments he made related to Shatta Wale posting a ‘trinity’ concept about his upcoming (Reign) album.

Epixode who felt displeased and thought Shatta Wale was copying him admitted the Senior Artiste called him to explain things and he (Epixode) apologized to him for taking things too quickly on social media.

He spoke to King Lagazee on Hitz 103.9fm on Sunday, August 25, 2018 during his #3NiTY Album Media Tour.

Epixode is currently on a media tour to promote his latest album #3NiTY. Album has 21 songs with at least 10 features.

Songs cut across Reggae, Dancehall and Afrobeats. He was on King Lagazee’s show #YaadSettingz on Hitz 103.9fm

TIDAL And MTN Announce Trailblazing Partnership Bringing Pioneering Music & Video Streaming Service To Millions Of Customers Across Africa, Starting with Uganda

Global music and video streaming platform, TIDAL in partnership with the leading communications operator in Uganda offering mobile & fixed telecommunications, MTN Uganda, have today announced an exciting, first-of-its kind collaboration.

The partnership provides MTN Uganda customers a variety of options for a data-inclusive TIDAL membership as part of their mobile plan to gain access to exclusive high-quality streaming music, videos, concerts and more.

“Africa is a continent that has long been an inspiration for music heard around the world and TIDAL is excited to highlight the vibrant musicians on our platform. TIDAL is also thrilled to bring a new wave of digital music to Uganda as part of this collaboration” said Lior Tibon, COO TIDAL.

The partnership, launched in Uganda but set to be rolled out in other MTN operations across Africa comes with an array of membership options where customers can tap into one, three, seven and 30-day memberships, all of which include data and a free 30-day trial for all first-time members.

Four Ghanaian Filmmakers Selected For MultiChoice Talent Factory Academy To Begin 12-Month Training Programme!

Meet the future of Africa’s Film & Television Industry! MultiChoice Africa is delighted to reveal the 60 hopefuls who have been chosen to be the first students of the MultiChoice Talent Factory Academy (MTF)!

The candidates were chosen after a two-months long process of shortlisting candidates from over 3 000 entries from 13 countries in Africa, this was followed by a rigorous interview and adjudication process by a group of film and television industry experts and regional Academy Directors.

The 20 future filmmakers from West Africa were selected based on their industry related qualifications and skills, as well as their passion to narrate Africa’s unique stories. Congratulations to: Edmund Kobby Asamoah, Henry Konadu Denkyira, Irene Dumevi Yaamoakoa and Patience Esiawonam Adisenu who will represent Ghana at the Nigeria-based MTF Academy from 1 October. MultiChoice Africa will sponsor the students’ tuition, accommodation and stipend for the duration of their training in Lagos.

Cartoon Network Extends Deadline For Africa Creative Lab Submissions

In line with Cartoon Network’s strategy to localise content, the channel is proud to announce the launch of a brand new initiative, Cartoon Network Africa Creative Lab, an African creative competition designed to bring innovative, local short form content to Africa through its channel, and digital platforms, while reinforcing the local relevance of the brand.

In this ground-breaking move, the leading network in the kids’ entertainment industry, Cartoon Network is taking another bold step in addressing the gap in locally relevant content which offers a viewing experience that resonates with its African audience.

The initiative will encourage African talents: creators, writers, graphic artists, animation students … in fact anyone who loves kids’ content, to explore their creative, animation and production talents and have the chance to produce a short-form animated comedy to make Cartoon Network viewers across Africa laugh out loud!

Entries for the Cartoon Network Africa Creative Lab will NOW BE OPEN UNTIL SEPTEMBER 10th 2018.

African residents, aged 18 and over, or any African-based company, can submit their one-minute to three-minute creative short project which must fall in the comedy genre and fit with Cartoon Network’s values of random, irreverent, smart and contemporary humour. More information can be found on www.CartoonNetworkAfrica.com/CreativeLab

"Wetin We Gain’ Singer, Victor AD Visits Kuami Eugene In Lynx Entertainment Studios

Nigerian singer, Victor AD, the talent behind ‘Wetin we Gain‘ motivational hit song is in Ghana as we speak.

He has come down to familirise with his Ghanaian fan base.

Yesternight, he was in the studios of Lynx Entertainment where he linked up with Rockstar Kuami Eugene.

The duo are even preparing a song together.

Sister Derby Calls On Ghanaians To Reject Single-use Plastic Bags

Ghanaian Female musician Deborah Vanessa, popularly known as Sister Derby, has called on Ghanaians to reject single use plastic bags as part of her ongoing campaign against plastic bags.

Sister Derby, who made an appearance on Tonight with Andrew Tandoh Adote also called on Ghanaians to take up the responsibility of educating others on the negative effects of plastic use in society.

She stated: “We hope there will be a ban on plastics bags in Ghana. And if we say plastics we are talking about single use plastics, plastics that cannot be recycled. Solution can be educating market women or could be that Ghanaians reject plastic bags when it is handed to them.”

A whale recently died in southern Thailand after swallowing more than 80 plastic bags. An autopsy revealed 80 plastic bags weighing up to 8kg (18lb) in the creature’s stomach.

Jim Iyke Shares True Story About Alleged Airport Assault

It had been reported earlier on Monday that Nollywood actor Jim Iyke was arrested by the Nigeria Police Force at the Murtala Mohammed Airport in Lagos.

The actor had allegedly assaulted a Dana Air staff during an argument, forcing the police to arrest him.

Jim Iyke, in an interview with TheNETng‘s Joan Omionawele, has revealed that he was never arrested by the police. He did not assault a Dana Air staff either, he shared.

Read Jim Iyke’s version of events:

People are just amazing, the truth is that I was running late for a flight in Abuja, and my people had sent my luggage a flight ahead. I tried hard not to miss the flight, but by the time I made it to the gate, the captain had almost shut the aircraft.

One of the security guards who saw me struggling to make my way in got overzealous and got into an argument with my PA. Then they started exchanging words and pointing fingers at the heat of the moment.

At the end of the day, we couldn’t even make it (the flight) and when we were coming back, the airport assistant went to call the police and said my Personal Assistant hit his face and pushed him.

How Sitsofe Tsikor Quit Her Corporate Job For Full-time Acting

What would make a beautiful lady working in a corporate space quit her day job to venture into full-time acting? Sitsofe Tsikor graduated from Central University in 2012 with Bachelor’s Degree in Marketing. She landed her first job at Vodafone where she was Marketing Executive, and then moved to joined Safety Transport and Logistics Service (STLS) to manage the marketing wing of the company.

But just when things were going well with her career, Sitso made a crucial decision to resign and focus on her passion, acting. Revealing why she took that giant step, the bubbly actress she has no regrets. “Acting is what I’m truly passionate about. It’s the one thing I see myself doing for the rest of my life,” she explained, adding that she has no interest of returning to the day jobs.

“I won’t return to the corporate world, but I plan on starting my own business.” The mission of her business, Sitso says, will have marketing and customer service as the core value and essence of what she wants to do.

Regina Van-Helvert Launches Anti-Jungle Justice Campaign

Ghanaian actress and radio/TV presenter, Regina Van Helvert has officially launched her campaign against mob action in Ghana, dubbed  ‘Jungle in Justice’ on Friday, 24th August which was held at Alisa Hotel in Accra.

The ‘Heels and Sneakers’ actress bewailed that its time Ghanaians are well educated when it comes to crime in the society because it is not legal for an individual to take one’s life.

Regina also explained the procedures which would guide her probe the issue of ‘mob action’ in the country that is she would start the campaign with the hashtag #stopjunglejustice on all social platforms. According to her, a lot of the Ghanaian youth mostly spend their time on social media hence using the hashtag would get the attention of the youth in order for them to join in the campaign.

‘’ The are various ways we would like to talk to people about Jungle Justice and one is to trend with the hashtag. This is because a lot of young people are active on social media and in order to do so, we are going to use Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Snapchat and various interactions to promote the jungle justice. We would ask people whether they have experienced it before and get resource people who can answer a few questions” she maintained

Israel Appoints Shani Cooper As The New Ambassador To Ghana, Liberia And Sierra Leone

The State of Israel has appointed H.E. Shani Cooper as the new Ambassador to Ghana, Liberia and Sierra Leone.

Ambassador Cooper replaces H.E. Ami Mehl who ended his term of service in July 2018. Ambassador Cooper comes to Ghana with 12 years of diplomatic experience haven served in Egypt, Cyprus, Turkey and Israel’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Representing Israel in Ghana will be her fourth diplomatic posting.

In a video released by the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs to promote her appointment, H. E. Cooper mentions that, “she was born in an agricultural village in Israel, where farming was not easy, but the Israeli spirit proved that ‘where there is a will, there is a way’ and hard work and agricultural innovation made it possible to grow fruits and vegetables on a difficult land.” Ambassador Cooper is married and has two daughters.

‘BadLuckJoe’ Starring Chris Attoh, Sika Osei, Michele Attoh & Adomaa Premieres On October 5

Apex Advertising and Post Production outdoors their first movie titled Badluckjoe which features our very own Chris Attoh, Michelle Attoh, Sika Osei, and introduces songstress Adomaa & award-winning singer, Kidi.

Ramesh Jai a NAFTI graduate and member of the Directors Guild of Ghana shows off his many talents in the upcoming movie yet to be premiered at the Silverbird Cinemas on October 5th, 2018.

Ramesh who has been away for a while in the movie industry at the Press Soiree held at One Airport Square indicated that filmmaking was a challenge in the past, therefore, prolonging the period of which a movie should be out in the market.

He, however, explained that filmmaking presently is not a challenge anymore even though it involves a lot of energy and sacrifice but he’s going to do his best to shoot more of it so Ghanaians should expect enthralling movies from his team.

He further pressed Ghanaians not to miss the day of the premiere on October 5th because they’re going to laugh until their ribs come out because ‘Badluckjoe’ is basically a comic movie.

Fall Out Of "The Launch" - 9ja: A wake Up Call?

Social Media over the few past days has been inundated with stories about the recently held Zylofon Media Launch in Nigeria which hosted all Zylofon signees at the Eko Hotels & Suites in Lagos, Nigeria.

First of all I must congratulate NAM 1 and his team for that great move. Surfing the social media space in Nigeria, the event is undoubtedly one of the biggest event witnessed this year. And for someone from outside Nigeria to pull off that big event, worth commending

However section of Ghanaians are shocked at the turn of event during the night. Snippets from the night showing patrons at the event looking on like "koliko" as our finest artists take turns to perform.

I felt embarrassed  to see my own Shatta and Abowy, performing to a centre full of "ghost". Last night undoubtedly will be one of the bad nights in the lives of these Zylofon Signees.

GHOne TV’s Eli Kharis Listed Amongst 100 Most Influential Young Persons In West Africa

Ghanaian television presenter, Eli Kharis is one of West Africa’s 100 Most Influential Young Persons.

The 2018 West African Youth Awards ‘Television Host of the Year’ winner was listed amongst other noted individuals including Jessica Opare-Sarforo, Fella Makafui, FunnyFace, Sandra Ankobiah, Dr. Zenator Agyeman-Rawlings and Yvonne Nelson.

The initiative by the Confederation of West African Youths (CWAY) recognizes the contributions of individuals to the growth of their countries of birth and West Africa.

CWAY, according to its website “is an all inclusive leading ECOWAS youth platform representing and safeguarding aspirations of million of youth across our sub-region.”

The body hopes to “become the largest youth body representing over 200 million youth across ECOWAS by 2022.”

Eli Kharis is a Television Presenter, Producer and an Event Host.

Her media career started as a student of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) in 2012.

Dr Drilla Holds Sarkodie Spellbound On TV3 New Day

Rap sensation, Dr Drilla held Africa's rap king Sarkodie spellbound on Tv3 new day on Friday, August 24th, 2018.

Dr Drilla was billed for the freestyle session on the New Day show and was given the "Man's not hot" beats to freestyle on.

Sarkodie watched Dr_Drilla closely and was surprised by Drilla's rap game. He had no option than to cheer Dr_Drilla on.

Sarkodie is noted to have inspired young rappers, as well as work on records with them to encourage them, to work harder to make the rap game more competitive and lucrative.

2018 AMAAs Rescheduled To October 20

The organisers of the Africa Movie Academy Awards (AMAA) have announced October 20 as the new date for the hosting of the continental scheme for filmmakers in Africa and in the Diaspora.

The event was earlier scheduled to hold on September 22nd in Kigali, Rwanda.

The change in date —according to the Director of Administration, Mr. Tony Anih —is to harmonize a  few contingencies that arose from the partnership between the host country and the organizers with a view to expanding the scope and value of this year's event to all stakeholders.

It will be recalled that the Academy Board of international jurors recently announced nominees in the various categories of the awards. The nomination announcement was held at the Wheatbaker Hotel, Ikoyi, Lagos.

Over 500 films were entered for this edition of the awards, which had been staged to critical acclaim for 14 years, according to Shaibu Husseini, Chairman of the AMAA Selection Committee.

See Images : Akufo-Addo Storms "Chaley Wote" Street Art Festival

The President of Ghana, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, was present at Eighth Edition of the “Chaley Wote” Street Art Festival, at Jamestown, Accra on Saturday, August 25.

The President came to witness the occasion, which is aimed at cultivating a wider audience for the arts in West Africa by breaking creative boundaries and using arts as a viable form to rejuvenate public space for growth of arts in Ghana.

Since it’s commencement in 2011, the festival has served as a platform, that brings art, music, dance and other performances out of the galleries, onto the streets of Jamestown, Accra.

This year’s festival started on Monday 20th August in Accra and saw lots of exhibitions from both Ghana based and foreign based artists exhibit their works at various venues of the festival and which ends on Sunday 26th August.

See Images + Video: Joyce Blessing ‘s Unique Performance Impressed Audience At ZylofonMedia/Menzgold Launch in Nigeria

Gospel and inspirational  musician Joyce Blessing once again delivered a spectacular performance at Zylofon Media and Menzgold official launch concert in Nigeria last Friday, 24th of August, 2018.

As the only Gospel musician who shared the same stage with a host of other secular artistes, Joyce Blessing proved to the audience she is best at what she does as she perfectly rocked the stage  with an energetic feel which thrilled and impressed the many Nigerian patrons who came to witness the graceful event.

As difficult as it is for a Gospel sensation to move  such a crowd, the Ghanaian gospel star won the hearts of many with a performance of her latest hit single “I Swerve You” as the Nigerian audience sang and danced along with her. Joyce Blessing also performed victory and different colours by Lucky Dube which got patrons clapping and shouting for more after her performance.

Ghana’s Naana Lexis Agyemang leads Global Icon Workshops; The Brand Management Master Class Edition On August 25th

For the first time Ghana is hosting a fully loaded one-day Brand Management master class on the 25th of August at the La Villa Boutique Hotel inside Osu.

CEO of Lex Entertainment Ltd, organizers of the Global Icons Workshop, Naana Opoku-Agyemang noted:

“Brands matter and, as such must be cherished and managed well. “The ability for people to be able to manage their brands, (whether personal or business) to sustain its self growing into returns is key” – She indicated.

Attendees will learn under Coaches such as;

“Jessie Amoh Agyapong, John Armah, Bonolo Matabege- South Africa, Leslie Addo Listowell, Josephine Amankwah, Robert Carl Nunoo, Terrence Addey Adams, Yvonne Marian Quaicoe-USA, Gifty Boatemaa Annan, Bernard Kelvin Clive and Dr.Adae Opoku Amoako-USA”

Smash Hit “Island” Sees Fuse ODG As The Most Stream Artist In Africa On Spotify

Three times MOBO award-winning artiste known in showbiz circles as Fuse ODG has recorded the most streamed song on Spotify.

Fuse who recently, released his hit banger dubbed ‘Island’ has seen him beat other scores of artistes on the digital music platforms.

The song ‘Island’ on Spotify has over 3 millions monthly listeners as Mr. Eazi follows with his song dubbed “Property”.

The track was produced by Dutch/Surinamese duo Yr$ Trly with RGen a Londoner with Sri Lankan heritage who previously contributed to the early Fuse track ‘Antenna’.

Outside of music, Fuse’s current social initiative is to expand upon the primary school that he built in Akosombo,  Ghana in conjunction with the Wood World Missions.

COBHAMS, FALZ, ADEKUNLE GOLD TO DAZZLE FANS WITH LIVE PERFORMANCES AT 2018 AMVCAs

Lighting up the stage at the sixth edition of the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCAs) on Saturday, 1st September are some of Nigeria’s biggest and award-winning musicians including song writer and producer, Cobhams Asuquo, rapper and song writer, Falz and highlife singer, Adekunle Gold.

Music producer and song writer, Cobhams Asuquo who recently released the video to his hit single, 'One Hit’, will captivate audiences with his powerful vocals while versatile rapper, Falz TheBahdGuy will bring his signature sound and high energy on stage performing some of his most loved songs.

Meanwhile, alternative singer-songwriter, Adekunle Gold, who is still fresh off his sophomore album, ‘About 30’ will also perform alongside his band, The 70th Element.

The night promises an exciting and diverse line-up of stellar performances as viewers will also get to see live on stage the SEKI traditional dance troupe.

Why Organize A Show To Perform Songs That Fans Don’t Know? – “Naija Invasion”

MenzGold and Zylofon Media opened it’s branch in Nigeria yesterday and a concert is dubbed ¨Naija Invasion” was organized for Zylofon signees and top Nigerian artist to grace the new ” Naija Invasion ” but seems all did not go well for the Ghanaian reps from Zylofon Media.

Ricky Rick, a social media influence and critic expressed his thoughts about the concert dubbed “Naija Invasion” on social media {Facebook} and Cypress Ghana  decided to share to the world to also share their thoughts on what Ricky Rick shared.

On the bill, were all the signees on the Zylofon Music record label namely Shatta Wale, Stonebwoy, Becca, Kumi Guitar, Joyce Blessing and Obibini, while 2Baba, Patoranking, M.I, Phyno, Olamide, Ycee, Tekno and Niniola made up the list for the Nigerian hosts.

Vocalist Trina Mungai Releases Romantic Duet 'Twenty Four' Featuring Kagwe Mungai

Taurus Musik’s new signee Trina Munagi has dropped yet another single featuring fellow male signee and fast rising Kenyan artist Kagwe Mungai.

The song titled ‘Twenty Four’ comes just a few months after the songstress dropped a big reggae tune ‘Tonight’. ‘Twenty Four’ is a romantic duet that is an expression of love and affection between two individuals.

Trina who is popularly known as Meremeka debut her singing career at the age of 10, featuring in church choir performances and consequently getting onto bigger stages and singing in countless concerts and set productions from the age of 16. This lead her to being featured as a backup vocalist for renowned artists like Sauti Sol, Kanji Mbogua, June Gachui, Atemi, Eric Wanaina and Neema Ntalel among other home grown established artists.

She started singing professionally in 2015, went on a 10-month tour with Safaricom Live Tour in 2013 to sing for the top recording artists from Kenya including P-Unit, Octopizzo, Kidum and many others. She has sung for both national and International artists on Coke Studio African season 2 through to 5 where she worked with various artists such as Vivian Green, Yemi Alade, Maphoriso, Nasty C, Ne-yo and Jason Derulo.

See Images : Government Endorses Vodafone’s Coding Programme

Government has endorsed a National Coding Programme recently launched by Vodafone Ghana to benefit 10,000 Ghanaian youth in the next five years.

The telecommunications company on Friday August 24th, announced that the coding programme is part of a unique strategy to ignite Ghana’s digital revolution. 

Globally, digital coders are reshaping the world – disrupting and demystifying previously existing myths in technology and innovation.

It has become an empowerment tool; changing the way businesses operate. Vodafone, through the Foundation, is bringing this closer to the Ghanaian youth in every corner of the country in order to equip them to be competitive in the changing global world of technology.

READ FULL STATEMENT : Venus Films Production Clears Air Over Alleged Movie Theft

One of Ghana's leading movie production, distribution and marketing company, Venus Films has debunked claims made against it by Mr Nana Kwabena Adu Acheampong that it has allegedly stolen the movie 'Perfect Love'.

In a press statement penned by the Chief Executive Officer of the company, Alhaji Abdul Salam Mumuni, he said he dealt directly with the director and producer, Frank Fifi Gharbin, of the movie, to whom he paid the agreed amount for the right to distribute the movie to the appropriate market using giants like Iroko TV.

According to Mr Salam, the director and producer of the movie begged him to buy the right, he was reluctant in the initial stages but gave in upon persistent pressure mounted on him by Frank. From the statement released, the production company took the time to explain the dealing that went with Frank.

Read Full Statement After The Cut.....

Black Star International Film Festival Writes A Letter To The President Of The Republic Of Ghana, Nana Akufo-Addo

Juliet Asante, President of the Black Star International Film Festival and Board Chair of NAFTI has written an open letter to the president of the Republic of Ghana.

She prepared the speech in anticipation of the President’s presence at the Gala Awards at the just ended international film festival, and still read it though the President was not present, with the hope that the message would reach His Excellency.

In the letter, Miss Asante, who is a director and scriptwriter herself sought to “guide” the imagination of President Akuffo Addo to recognise the potential the film industry holds and how these potentials can be tapped to significantly boost the tourism industry, contribute immensely to job creation and ultimately drive the nation’s development.

She employed a “what if” game in the letter to point out some opportunities she describes as “low hanging fruits” and advocates for policies that would help the local film industry take advantage of them for significant growth of the sector.

FIESTA! 24-Hour Music Channel Launches On September 5

OMNIS2131, a partner company to EIB Network is launching FIESTA, an entertainment music video channel targeting Africa and anyone with an interest in music, video and more on DStv 329 / GOtv 159.

FIESTA is a 24hour TV channel which delivers a wide range of programming genres including lifestyle, music, events, entertainment news bulletins and many more.

The launch will take place on 5th September 2018, 4pm at MultiChoice Ghana (Basko Lane Off George Walker Bush Highway, Abelenkpe near the Sollatek office)

The schedule on the channel presents a collection of content from  the international events, Ghana and Africa.

“We will deliver progressive and empowering infotainment content celebrating the richness and pride of high quality music video emanating from the African continent.” said programming director Mr. Sikiru.

Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards To Celebrate Brilliance Behind The Cameras

Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA) organized by Africa Magic in association with MultiChoice is set to celebrate the great talents in the movie and television industry across Africa who creatively tell our stories through films, documentaries and series.

Some of these categories include: Best Make-up, Best Art Direction, Best Cinematography, Best Sound Editing, Best Video Editing, Best Lighting Designer and Best Costume Designer. Of the twenty-five categories in this year’s awards, Ghana won nomination in seven categories with the biggest scoring movie being Potato Potahto produced by Sparrow Production.

The list of nominees from Ghana include Shirley Frimpong Manso, Adjetey Anang, Chris Attoh and Lydia Forson amongst others. The movie Potato Potahto received five nominations in different categories including overall Best Movie in West Africa. The same movie was also selected for best costume designs from Christie Brown and Shirley Frimpong Manso also listed on the nominee list for Overall Best Director.