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Mahama meets with AfDB boss

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President John Dramani Mahama and AfDB's  Akinwumi A. Adesina President John Dramani Mahama and AfDB’s Akinwumi A. Adesina

President John Dramani Mahama has held a key meeting with Dr Akinwumi A. Adesina, the President of the African Development Bank (AfDB) in Accra.

The two discussed how the AfDB could continue to support and finance major economic and social infrastructure projects, especially as the new government sets out to reset the economy and begin revamping deteriorated critical infrastructure.

This meeting comes at a critical time, as President Mahama’s government seeks to reset the economy and revamp deteriorated critical infrastructure.

The AfDB’s support would be instrumental in addressing Ghana’s economic growth challenges, which have been hindered by macroeconomic instability, tightening global financial conditions, and spillover effects.

The AfDB’s Country Strategy Paper (CSP) 2024-2029 for Ghana outlines priority areas, including supporting industrialisation and private sector development, as well as infrastructure development.

These align with President Mahama’s goals, and the meeting marked a crucial step in strengthening the partnership between Ghana and the AfDB.

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Ghana forward Mohammed Kudus features for West Ham in FA Cup defeat to Aston Villa

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Ghana forward Mohammed Kudus Ghana forward Mohammed Kudus

Ghana forward Mohammed Kudus played the full 90 minutes for West Ham United in their 2-1 defeat to Aston Villa in the Third Round of the English FA Cup on Friday, January 10, 2025.

The match marked the first outing under new manager Graham Potter, and West Ham started brightly, showing promise in the opening stages.

The Hammers took an early lead in the 9th minute when Lucas Paquetá latched onto a pass from Crysencio Summerville during a swift counterattack, firing a precise shot into the net to make it 1-0.

West Ham maintained their advantage into the second half but saw their fortunes shift dramatically as Aston Villa mounted a comeback.

In the 71st minute, Ian Maatsen’s shot was parried by the goalkeeper, only for Amadou Onana to capitalise on the rebound and level the score at 1-1.

Just five minutes later, Villa sealed their victory. Ollie Watkins set up Morgan Rogers, who coolly slotted the ball into the net from close range, leaving the West Ham defense and goalkeeper with no chance.

Despite Mohammed Kudus’ full participation and his efforts to influence the game, West Ham struggled to regain control and were ultimately eliminated from the competition.

The defeat brings an end to West Ham’s FA Cup journey this season, while Aston Villa advances to the Round of 32.

Beninese army suffers ‘hard blow’ in border attack

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Benin has in recent years witnessed increasing jihadist attacks in the northern region Benin has in recent years witnessed increasing jihadist attacks in the northern region

Benin forces have suffered heavy losses in an attack near the border with insurgency-hit Niger and Burkina Faso, authorities have said.

Colonel Faizou Gomina, the national guard’s chief of staff, said one of Benin’s most well-equipped military positions had been hit in the north on Wednesday evening.

“We’ve been dealt a very hard blow,” Col Gomina added.

It is not clear yet who is behind the attack but the country has in recent years witnessed increasing attacks in the northern region blamed on jihadist groups based in neighbouring countries.

More than 120 Beninese military officers were killed between 2021 and December 2024, a diplomatic source told the AFP news agency.

Last month, gunmen killed three soldiers and wounded four others who were guarding an oil pipeline in the north-east.

Col Gomina did not provide a death toll for Wednesday’s attack, but the main opposition party, The Democrats, said about 30 soldiers had been killed in the Alibori region, Reuters news agency reports.

A security source put the death toll at 28, according to AFP.

“We are continuing cleaning-up operations. Forty assailants have been neutralised so far,” the military source added.

Col Gomina said the position attacked had been “one of the strongest and most militarised” and called on military commanders to improve their operational strategies in order to counter security threats.

“Wake up, officers and section chiefs, we have battles to win,” he said.

In 2022, Benin deployed nearly 3,000 troops to curb cross-border incursions and reinforce security in the north.

I’m happy seeing King Paluta, Fameye now embracing Highlife

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Ghanaian musician and rapper Amerado Burner has claimed that he is the first successful rapper in the Ghanaian music industry to transition into highlife music.

During a press conference held in Accra on January 9, 2025, Amerado stated that he paved the way for fellow artistes like Fameye and King Paluta to follow in his footsteps.

He explained that due to his creativity, he was the first artiste in 2024 to top music charts with popular highlife songs such as “Kweku Ananse” and its remix.

“In January 2024, ‘Kweku Ananse’ and its remix were both in the top ten on all major music platforms, which was unprecedented. I was the first artist in 2024 to achieve that, and I’m incredibly humbled to see artists like King Paluta and Fameye now embracing highlife music,” he said.

Amerado also pointed out the decline in Nigerian music’s dominance on Ghana’s charts, adding, “Gone are the days when Nigerian songs were dominating our charts. Now, people are tuning into more Ghanaian music, and I’m happy to see that.”

The “Kweku Ananse” hitmaker further addressed rumours about him being a “confused” musician, explaining that his ability to rap and sing is part of his versatility.

“I don’t like to stay in my comfort zone. As a kid, I always wanted to try new things and challenge myself. When I was rapping, I often featured artists who sang the chorus, but I also wrote their choruses. I’ve always had the desire to sing and rap simultaneously. Sometimes you need to grow and discover yourself, but that doesn’t mean I’ve switched from rapping entirely,” he emphasised.

He continued, “If I can rap and sing together, why limit myself? We live in a society where people want to see you focus on one thing. But if rapping and singing work for me, it could mean I’m just lucky. Let’s replace confusion with being dynamic.”

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Meanwhile, watch the moment Nigel Gaisie, Abeiku Santana and KOD arrived at John Mahama’s swearing-in ceremony

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NPP’s Upper East Regional Deputy Communication Director Speaks Out Against Party’s Defeat

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Andrew Asungiiba Atariwini, the Upper East Regional Deputy Communication Director of the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP), has expressed his concerns following the party’s dismal performance in the Upper East Region.
The governing National Democratic Congress (NDC) secured a decisive 15/15 victory, leaving the NPP reeling with no mercy.
Atariwini emphasized that although the party’s constitution doesn’t explicitly address this issue, good governance dictates that one person cannot hold two critical

A Fusion of Tradition and Elegance

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The fusion of lace and Ankara fabric has become one of the most fashionable trends in African and global style circles. Combining the intricate, delicate nature of lace with the vibrant, bold patterns of Ankara creates a stunning contrast that appeals to both traditional and modern tastes. This fusion reflects the seamless blending of cultures, offering a dynamic approach to contemporary fashion.

Ankara, also known as African wax print fabric, is known for its bold, colorful patterns that tell stories and represent different ethnic identities. It has been a mainstay in African fashion for decades, thanks to its versatility and rich cultural significance. Lace, on the other hand, has been a symbol of sophistication, often used for formal occasions due to its delicate, feminine qualities. The combination of these two fabrics creates unique and stunning styles suitable for a variety of occasions.

One popular style is the lace and Ankara gown, where the body of the dress may be made from Ankara fabric, while the sleeves, neckline, or back of the dress incorporate lace. This combination gives the dress an elegant and refined touch, perfect for weddings, parties, or other formal events. Another trending design is the use of lace as an accent, such as lace appliqué detailing on the Ankara fabric, adding texture and dimension to the outfit.

For those who prefer more modern or casual styles, lace and Ankara can also be combined to create skirts, blouses, and jumpsuits. A simple Ankara skirt paired with a lace top or vice versa creates a fashionable yet relaxed look, ideal for everyday wear or semi-formal occasions. Lace can be used subtly in trims, borders, or even as an overlay, adding a touch of elegance to the otherwise bold Ankara fabric.

The beauty of combining lace and Ankara lies in the ability to create looks that are both traditional and innovative. Whether you prefer bold and dramatic or soft and elegant, the versatility of these two fabrics ensures that there is a perfect design for every occasion and personal style.

In conclusion, the marriage of lace and Ankara fabric offers a beautiful way to celebrate African heritage while embracing modern fashion sensibilities. These combinations allow for the creation of stunning, sophisticated, and unique outfits that capture the beauty of both worlds, making them a must-have in any fashion-forward wardrobe.

Guinness Ghana DJ Awards 2025: Countdown to Nov 29 begins

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After a groundbreaking 2024 episode, Africa’s biggest disc jockey event, Guinness Ghana DJ Awards, is already gearing up for its 2025 edition.

Organizers of the revered DJ awards show, Merqury Republic, have launched a 365 day countdown to the 2025 Guinness Ghana DJ Awards Festival, slated for November 29, 2025 at the Palms Convention Center.

by the country’s leading total beverage company, Guinness Ghana and powered by Smirnoff, Ghana DJ Awards 2025 will run on the theme ‘Shake the Floor’ and will encompass a wide range of events that seek to create and solidify the relationship between celebrated DJs and music fans across the country. The theme draws inspiration from the dance floor experience — where music transcends barriers, unites people, and creates lasting memories.

‘Shake the Floor’ also highlights the DJs role as more than just a music selector but a cultural curator with the capability of uplifting communities through sound and energy.

Creative Director of the Ghana DJ Awards, Merqury Quaye, explained that “the 2025 theme is a celebration of the magic that happens when DJs and music lovers come together. It’s inspired by the energy, passion, and love that fans bring to the dance floor, turning ordinary moments into unforgettable experiences”.

All across social media, Guinness Ghana DJ Awards will provide updates in the run-up to November 29, 2025, with a sequential outdooring of its itinerary for the much-anticipated nationwide tour, Pub Fest, Ghana DJ Clinic, Ladies Concert and Nominees Jam.

The Ghana DJ Awards is considered a barometer for measuring the success of DJs.

The 2024 Guinness Ghana DJ Awards delivered an epic experience with performances from rappers Edem, Guru, and Keche. Top DJs Andy Dosty and Merqury Quaye himself treated audiences to nostalgic hits while facing off in the ‘Old School vs New School’ battle. DJ Lord OTB emerged DJ of the Year and DJ Mish bagged the Female DJ of the Year award.

Guinness Ghana DJ Awards 2025 promises to be nothing short of amazing as music enthusiasts get ready to “Shake the Floor”.

Mahama Appoints 3 Ministers –

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Cassiel Ato Forson

 

President John Dramani Mahama has appointed three persons as Ministers of State at the Ministries of Justice and Attorney General, Finance, and Energy as his first set of appointments.

The Speaker of Parliament, Alban S.K. Bagbin announced this on the floor of the House today.

The newly appointed persons are Dr. Cassiel Ato Baah Forson, Minister-Designate for Finance, John Abdulai Jinapor, Minister-Designate for Energy; and Dominic Akuritinga Ayine, Attorney-General and Minister-Designate for Justice.

In a letter addressed to the Speaker, the President said the appointments are in accordance with Article 78 (1) of the Constitution.

“I trust that Parliament will expedite the approval process in accordance with the constitutional requirements,” the letter read in part.

By Ernest Kofi Adu, Parliament House

Parliament Hails Dr Marfo On Appointment As Climate Parliament Director

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In a statement on the floor of Parliament, Frank Annoh-Dompreh, Minority Chief Whip and MP for Nsawam-Adoagyiri, celebrated the appointment of Dr. Emmanuel Marfo as the new Director for West and Central Africa regions at the Climate Parliament.

This appointment is a testament to Ghana’s commitment to addressing climate change and promoting sustainable development practices.

Dr. Marfo’s journey to this appointment is a remarkable one.

A former Member of Parliament for Oforikrom, he has had a distinguished career in environmental science, policy, and legislation.

He served as a Principal Research Scientist at the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research and later became a two-term MP for Oforikrom Constituency.

During his time in Parliament, Dr. Marfo chaired the Committee on Environment, Science and Technology in the 8th Parliament and was the global chairman of the Parliamentary Group of the Climate Vulnerable Forum from 2022-2024.

The Climate Parliament, headquartered in London, is a global network of legislators working to inform and mobilize Members of various Parliaments and Congresses to take action on the climate emergency.

Dr. Marfo’s appointment is a recognition of his commitment to addressing climate change and his ability to marshal support from various stakeholders.

Frank Annoh-Dompreh, among his colleagues, praised Dr. Marfo’s achievements, stating that his appointment is a proud moment for Ghana and a testament to the country’s leadership in addressing climate change.

He also emphasized the need for continued climate action, warning that the risks of inaction include loss of biodiversity, crop losses, displacement of communities, and rampant floods.

Dr. Marfo’s appointment has been hailed as a significant achievement for Ghana, and he has been assured of the support of the House in his new role.

BY Daniel Bampoe

John Legend and wife Chrissy Teigen take refuge from LA wildfires in a hotel with their four kids, four dogs and pet bearded dragon

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Chrissy Teigen and her husband John Legend have sought refuge at a hotel with their four children, four dogs, and a pet bearded dragon as the horrific Palisades Fire rips through the area near her California home.

The former model, 39, told fans that she and the 12-time Grammy winner, 46, were packing their essential belongings and leaving their Beverly Hills mansion, which they purchased in 2020, with their four kids: Luna, 8, Miles, 6, Esti, and Wren, both 1.