Nigerian singer, Okafor Uchenna Victor, popularly known as Mr Real, has claimed that the Afrobeat genre lacks originality.
Naija News reports that Mr Real, in a recent interview with Hip TV, expressed concern over the high level of intellectual property theft in the Nigerian music industry.
The ‘Legbegbe’ crooner stated that many songs and ideas on the Afrobeat scene are stolen, and upcoming artists are the most affected, but often do not get justice.
According to Mr Real, veteran artists like Blackface, who is always vocal about song theft, have used other artists’ intellectual property without permission in the past.
The singer also referenced the allegations that Rema stole his colleague Omah Lay’s intellectual property, saying it could be possible due to the nature of the music industry.
He said, “Blackface dey always complain say dem steal him song. Afrobeats no get original songs, even Rema fit steal Omah Lay song. You see idea wey bad if you no sharp, omo boys go run am. No time.
“Stealing of songs happens more between upcoming artists & top artistes but the upcoming no get fans to speak for them. There’s no original song in Afrobeats. Even the one shouting ‘they stole my song’ don still copy person own.”
The Minister for Communications, Digital Technology and Innovation, Samuel Nartey George, has unveiled Ghana’s ambitious digital transformation agenda, anchored on policy reforms, advanced infrastructure, and strong support for local innovators.
Speaking at the Africa Tech Festival 2025 in Cape Town, Minister George said the government is committed to building a resilient digital economy through investments in innovation centres, targeted interventions, and programs designed to empower Ghanaian creators and technologists.
$50 Million Innovation and Startup Fund Nearing Completion Minister George announced that legislation establishing an Innovation and Startup Fund is nearing completion.
The fund, with an initial seed capital of US$50 million, is aimed at supporting Ghanaian innovators across multiple sectors beyond fintech, reflecting the government’s ambition to create a broad-based, technology-driven economy.
Supporting Local Innovators to Scale Globally The Minister stressed that African innovators often remain small not because of a lack of potential, but because traditional financing institutions do not fully understand the capital requirements of technology startups.
“We must ensure innovation comes from Africa. The solutions to Africa’s challenges will not come from Silicon Valley,” he said, calling for stronger angel investment networks and increased venture capital participation across the continent.
Developing Local-Language AI Tools for Agriculture He highlighted ongoing efforts to develop large language models (LLMs) in local farming languages to support farmers. He noted that while many Agritech tools are in English, a significant number of farmers cannot read or write English, or even their own mother tongue.
Through collaborations with universities, including KNUST, the government is developing voice-activated AI tools that provide crop advisory services, weather alerts, and precision farming support in local languages.
Despite strong agricultural output, significant volumes of grains, vegetables, and tubers go to waste due to limited processing and preservation infrastructure.
The Sector Minister said the government is seeking Agritech innovations that enhance value addition and help stabilize food security during lean seasons.
Expanding Fibre-to-the-Home Nationwide As part of an updated National Broadband Strategy, the government plans to roll out five million fibre-to-the-home (FTTH) connections over the next three years using both terrestrial and aerial fibre.
He stressed that FTTH expansion must reach rural communities, not just major cities, to ensure inclusive digital development.
Affordability: A Key Barrier to Digital Inclusion Minister George cautioned that expanding coverage without tackling affordability might worsen inequalities. “Access is not the solution if people cannot afford the service,” he said, noting that data prices often reflect urban income levels, leaving rural users behind.
National AI Strategy to Be Presented to Cabinet The Minister announced that Ghana’s updated National AI Strategy will be submitted to the Cabinet before the year ends.
The strategy focuses on five priority areas: agriculture and food security, healthcare and telemedicine, education technology, financial inclusion, and government digital services.
The government also plans to expand the ghana.gov platform to host more than 16,000 public services, enabling seamless access to passports, certificates, utilities, taxes, and other essential services.
Ghana Positioned for Digital-Led Economic Growth Minister George said Ghana’s economy is recovering strongly, with a rebounding currency and projected 6% growth.
However, he emphasized that sustaining this momentum requires deepening digital governance and strengthening innovation ecosystems.
He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to building the infrastructure, frameworks, and partnerships necessary to establish Ghana as one of Africa’s leading technology hubs.
Chief Digital Officer Ibrahim Misto
MTN Ghana Outlines Bold Vision to Transform Digital Experience and Accelerate AI Adoption
The Chief Digital Officer of MTN Ghana, Mr. Ibrahim Misto, also unveiled the company’s ambitious vision to reshape Ghana’s digital economy by delivering AI-powered, lifestyle-focused solutions that improve everyday life for citizens.
He noted that MTN is moving beyond connectivity to become a comprehensive digital lifestyle partner for households and businesses.
“One of our key priorities is to enrich the customer experience beyond connectivity,” he said, highlighting plans to offer a consolidated suite of digital services tailored to parents, children, and SMEs.
“MTN today is positioned beyond just a company that provides internet. We want to provide complete lifestyle and digital experience solutions from home security to entertainment, content, and gaming,” he added.
Mr. Misto revealed plans to accelerate household connections across Ghana while rolling out simplified digital products designed to make life “brighter, simpler, and easier.”
AI for All: A New Frontier for Ghana’s Digital Economy The CDO highlighted artificial intelligence as a major pillar of MTN’s strategy, emphasizing its potential to boost productivity, efficiency, and access to essential services.
He said MTN intends to democratize AI by delivering localized tools and use cases that empower individuals, SMEs, and communities.
“Imagine being equipped with a supercomputer-like assistant that enhances society as a whole,” he said.
“MTN wants to play a key role by providing local AI solutions that help citizens become more productive and efficient. SMEs, which are the heart of the economy, stand to benefit greatly.”
Mr. Misto noted that giving Ghanaians powerful AI capabilities will improve decision-making, business outcomes, and overall digital productivity.
Driving Ghana’s Next Phase of Digital Transformation He outlined two core pillars of MTN’s forward-looking agenda: connecting as many homes as possible while providing unified digital lifestyle services, and mainstreaming AI adoption through accessible, locally relevant tools for citizens and SMEs.
“These are the pillars I foresee and hope we can successfully execute for a better digital economy,” he concluded.
Ghana Must Act Swiftly to Lead Africa’s Digital Future — Chamber CEO The Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Chamber of Telecommunications, Sylvia Owusu-Ankomah, urged Ghana to strengthen policy direction, investment incentives, and affordability measures to fully seize Africa’s next wave of digital transformation.
Ghana Progressing — But Challenges Persist She noted that Ghana’s network coverage is now above 90 percent but stressed that connectivity alone cannot drive digital inclusion, as many citizens still face high device costs and limited access to online services.
Speaking at her first major regional tech event since returning to the industry, she called the festival an “eye-opening platform” that showcases the rapid advancements transforming Africa’s telecommunications, AI, broadband, and digital policy landscape.
“Infrastructure exists, but utilization is far below potential. Affordable smartphones remain out of reach for many Ghanaians, especially given prevailing wage levels,” she said.
She called for stronger tax incentives on low-end smartphones to drive digital inclusion and accelerate the adoption of e-health, e-education, and e-governance services.
Africa’s Payment Systems Must Be Homegrown Owusu-Ankomah highlighted Africa’s over-reliance on Western-controlled payment platforms such as SWIFT as a pressing concern.
“We cannot continue depending on external systems. Africa needs its own interoperable payment ecosystem that supports free trade, mobile money, e-commerce, and financial inclusion,” she said, urging African-led cross-border payment solutions leveraging the existing infrastructure of mobile network operators.
AI Leadership Depends on Connectivity and Access The CEO stressed that AI-driven transformation will only succeed if supported by widespread connectivity and affordable access. Despite improvements in Ghana’s connectivity index, many citizens still lack devices or reliable data services, limiting the country’s AI adoption potential.
Policy Reforms Must Be Thoughtful She underscored that Ghana’s ongoing review of telecom laws and digital policies must involve thorough stakeholder engagement to prevent regulatory loopholes from undermining industry growth over the next five years.
“This is not a process to rush. These policies will define Ghana’s digital future. Stakeholder input must be taken seriously,” she said.
Government Commitments Applauded She lauded the recent announcement by Minister George that Cabinet has approved the long-awaited Duct Policy, which mandates that new road projects include fiber ducts. She described it as a “major win” that will reduce persistent fiber cuts and strengthen network reliability.
“The Chamber also welcomed the Minister’s commitment to co-create digital policies, ensuring benefits for the government, industry players, and citizens alike,” she stated.
Operators Driving the Next Phase of Digital Transformation According to Owusu-Ankomah, Ghana’s mobile network operators including MTN, Telecel, AT, ATC, Huawei, C-Squared, and others are spearheading the next phase of digital transformation by expanding infrastructure, forging strategic partnerships, innovating with new technologies, and delivering more affordable services.
She noted that realizing Ghana’s full potential will require stronger public-private partnerships, reduced industry-specific taxes, better support for affordable devices, and steady, forward-thinking policy frameworks.
Positioning Ghana as Africa’s Digital Hub Owusu-Ankomah stressed that Ghana has the infrastructure and regional influence to lead Africa’s digital transformation. “The opportunity is here. Ghana must position itself as the real gateway to Africa’s digital future,” she said.
A Nigerian lady, took to social media to share her heartbreak after discovering that her long-term boyfriend of five years was planning to marry another woman the following week.
In a video she posted online, the lady named Peculiar could be seen crying uncontrollably, expressing the pain and shock of learning about her partner’s upcoming marriage.
The caption accompanying the emotional video revealed the depth of Peculiar’s distress, stating, “I find out today that my serious boyfriend is getting married next week my 5-year relationship.”
This revelation left her devastated, as she grappled with the sudden and unexpected news of her partner’s impending marriage to someone else.
The video resonated with many viewers who empathized with Peculiar’s heartache and the betrayal she felt after investing five years in a relationship with someone she believed was serious about their commitment to each other.
The raw emotion displayed in the video captured the anguish of realizing that her partner had moved on to marry another person without her knowledge.
Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa is the Minister of Foreign Affairs and North Tongu MP
The Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has hinted at his impending retirement from Parliament.
According to him, he is preparing a new generation of leaders to take over as he continues to invest in education through his annual scholarship scheme.
Ablakwa surprises Embassy driver with all-expense-paid dream trip to Ghana
Addressing beneficiaries at a scholarship presentation ceremony in his constituency on December 29, 2025, Ablakwa said the support he offers students is part of a broader vision to groom future professionals and leaders who will help sustain Ghana’s development long after he leaves public office.
“… We are producing engineers, lawyers, aeronautical engineers, and future MPs who will take over from me because I’ll be retiring soon.
“Then future ministers, presidents, teachers who will come and help us to maintain the high standards that we are laying over here,” he said.
Ablakwa, who has consistently used part of his resources to support students in his constituency, expressed excitement about the scholarship programme.
He described it as one of the most fulfilling aspects of his public service.
“I am always excited to hand out these scholarships,” he told the students, urging them to use the funds strictly for their intended purpose.
“These are cash amounts, please don’t be tempted, no diversions. Go straight to your institutions and pay the fees,” he advised the students.
He further cautioned beneficiaries that continued support depends on accountability, insisting that proof of payment must be submitted to qualify for future assistance.
Ablakwa inaugurates SMART classrooms for STEM education
“If you want to receive another round of scholarship, make sure your evidence of payment is with us. If we don’t see the evidence of payment, then you are disqualifying yourself for the next academic year,” he said.
‘We are producing future MP’s who will take over from me soon’- Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, North Tongu MP and Foreign Affairs Minister, says he plans to retire from Parliament soon and is intentionally grooming students in the constituency to step up and continue a legacy of… pic.twitter.com/HHzuhspl8z
FIFA has officially unveiled the list of Ghanaian referees approved to officiate international matches for the 2026 calendar year, reaffirming Ghana’s strong representation on the global officiating stage.
The approved roster comprises 23 officials, made up of 10 Centre Referees, 10 Assistant Referees, one Futsal Referee, one Beach Soccer Referee, and one Video Assistant Referee (VAR).
Heading the list is seasoned official Daniel Laryea, who has been retained both as a Centre Referee and a VAR.
The contingent also welcomes new assistant referee Richard Kwaku, while Portia Oppong earns recognition in the Beach Soccer category.
In accordance with FIFA regulations, Member Associations are required to submit annual nominations for new referees or renew the appointments of existing officials on the FIFA list.
This process is managed by the Referees Committee of the Ghana Football Association, which ensures that all nominees meet FIFA’s stringent eligibility requirements, including the successful completion of FIFA-approved fitness and medical assessments.
Once the internal vetting process is completed, the nominations are submitted to FIFA for final validation.
The world football governing body retains the authority to approve or reject any nominee based on its established standards.
Referees approved by FIFA are authorized to wear the FIFA badge from January 2026 to December 2026. Retention on the list in subsequent years will depend on individual performance, with the FIFA badge remaining the exclusive property of FIFA throughout the calendar year.
The full list of officials approved by FIFA is attached.
Accra, Dec. 29, GNA – A high-level royal delegation from the Nifaman Traditional Area, led by Daasebre Dr. Twum Ampofo II, has returned to Ghana after an international mission that yielded diplomatic, cultural and economic gains aimed at supporting sustainable development in the area.
A news statement copied to the Ghana News Agency said the delegation undertook the mission from November 16 to 26, 2023, visiting Amsterdam and The Hague in the Netherlands, and Paramaribo in Suriname, with a dual objective of strengthening ancestral ties with the African diaspora and attracting foreign investment opportunities for the Nifaman Traditional Area.
The visit culminated in the delegation’s participation in Suriname’s 50th Independence Anniversary celebrations, where it joined world leaders and other dignitaries at a series of state-level events.
It said the mission was coordinated by the Nana Fofie Nkrabea Foundation and comprised the Barima Ahenkorah Abrokwah of Abompeh, Apagyahene of Asiakwa and Head of Business Development; Mr. Charles Odoom, Management Consultant; Mr. Derek Ofosu-Barku, Government Representative and Board Member of the Youth Employment Agency; and Mr. Ranger Mawuenyega, Chief Executive Officer of Superior Protection Ghana Ltd.
In Amsterdam, the delegation was received at the Kwakoe Building with traditional Ghanaian drumming and Surinamese cultural performances, marking the start of engagements in the Netherlands.
A key outcome of the Netherlands leg was a roundtable meeting with the National Institute for Dutch Slavery Past and Legacy (NiNsee), where the delegation, led by Daasebre Dr. Twum Ampofo II, signed a “Covenant of Unity and Heritage.” The agreement provides a formal framework for structured cooperation between the Nifaman Traditional Area and its diaspora.
“The delegation also advanced its economic agenda through discussions on the proposed Amsterdam–Asiakwa–Paramaribo Alliance, aimed at promoting trade, investment and cultural exchange”, it said.
At the Ghana Embassy in The Hague, Daasebre Dr. Twum Ampofo II engaged Ghanaian officials and potential investors, addressing concerns about land tenure security in Ghana and giving assurances of structured land governance to support responsible foreign direct investment.
In Suriname, the delegation undertook several cultural and diplomatic activities, including paying tribute to Dr. Sophie Redmond, a pioneer in Surinamese history, and engaging with Maroon traditions at Shandigou Village.
The delegation was later invited to participate in Suriname’s 50th Independence Anniversary celebrations, where it attended a state banquet in traditional regalia. During the event, Daasebre Dr. Twum Ampofo II held discussions with Suriname’s Vice President, Dr. Ronnie Rusland, who affirmed state-level support for the proposed Amsterdam–Asiakwa Alliance.
Further engagements with officials from Suriname’s Justice and Agriculture Ministries explored areas of cooperation, particularly in legal frameworks and agricultural development.
The statement said at an Afro-Business Network event hosted in honour of Daasebre Dr. Twum Ampofo II, and attended by the Prince of Togo, discussions led to the formation of a potential tri-national commercial partnership involving Ghana, Suriname and Togo.
The Surinamese Minister, Mr. Leo Voort, encouraged participants to prioritise quality in trade and investment, a position aligned with Nifaman’s development vision.
Commenting on the outcomes of the mission, the Apagyahene of Asiakwa said the delegation returned with “actionable frameworks and influential allies” to support the development aspirations of the Nifaman Traditional Area.
Staff of the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) have hoisted red flags across the company’s operational offices nationwide to protest Government’s reported plans to introduce Private Sector Participation (PSP) in the utility’s operations.
The action, led by the Public Utility Workers’ Union of the Trades Union Congress (PUWU-TUC), is to express strong opposition to the Government’s intention to appoint a transaction adviser for ECG’s transition into PSP.
The protest follows an earlier statement by PUWU-TUC indicating that the Union is currently leading an ongoing turnaround programme in collaboration with the Ministry of Energy, ECG Management and workers, following engagements with the Minister of Energy.
Speaking to the media, the General Secretary of PUWU-TUC, Brother Timothy Nyame, said the hoisting of red flags marked the beginning of a series of staff actions aimed at reinforcing the Union’s position that ECG could be revived through internal reforms rather than privatisation.
He said ECG workers had, in fulfilment of the turnaround programme, demonstrated a high level of commitment, discipline and dedication, yielding positive results.
“These efforts have resulted in about 90 per cent improvement in revenue, a drastic reduction in system losses, and a more stable power supply for the benefit of Ghanaians,” he said.
Brother Nyame expressed concern over the proposed appointment of a transaction adviser, describing it as premature and rushed.
“We see this move as being influenced by external interests seeking to take control of a strategic national asset for the benefit of a few individuals, rather than the interest of Ghanaians,” he said.
PUWU-TUC has therefore called on Government to halt all actions toward privatisation, allow the agreed turnaround programme to run its full course, and subsequently evaluate its outcomes in line with Ghana’s national energy distribution policy.
The Union reiterated its commitment to protecting the public interest, safeguarding jobs, and ensuring reliable and affordable power supply for all Ghanaians.
Accra, Dec. 29, GNA – Thousands of Christians are expected to converge at the International Central Gospel Church (ICGC) Christ Temple East in Teshie on December 31 for the annual Crossover Service, led by Pastor Mensa Otabil.
The service, a landmark event for worshippers, is held to end the year with gratitude and usher in the new year with renewed faith and hope.
The evening will feature worship and praise sessions by CT Praise, Zamar, Endless Praise, and Lumina.
A communion and anointing service will also be conducted to spiritually prepare attendees for the year ahead.
Pastor Otabil will deliver the New Year message, stressing the importance of trusting God in 2026 and stepping into the year with expectation.
The church’s theme for 2026 will be officially declared during the service.
“As we step into 2026, it is essential that we place our trust fully in God. Crossover is a time to reflect on His faithfulness, leave behind the challenges of the past year, and walk into the new year confident that God will guide and provide.
“I encourage everyone to come with faith and expectation,” Pastor Otabil said.
Organisers have arranged buses across Accra and Tema to transport worshippers to Christ Temple East and return them to their pick-up points after the service.
The programme begins at 2100 hours, with families, friends, and individuals encouraged to arrive early and participate fully.
