KobbyJosvan

Author: Kobby Josvan

  • Use films to fight teenage pregnancy —Gloria Sarfo to filmmakers

    Use films to fight teenage pregnancy —Gloria Sarfo to filmmakers

    Ghanaian Actress and TV personality, Gloria Sarfo, has expressed concern over the alarming numbers of teenage pregnancy cases in the country and called on moviemakers and fellow celebrities to use their various platforms to address the problem.

    Data from the Ghana Health Service reads that last year alone, 102,673 teenagers were reported pregnant and Ms Sarfo voiced out the need to fight the trend.

    Looking at the far-reaching consequences of teenage pregnancy on the young people involved, their families and the country as a whole, she urged creatives, particularly filmmakers to leverage their influence to complement the government and other stakeholders’ efforts in tackling the problem.

    Speaking exclusively to the Graphic Showbiz after the premiere of the documentary ‘Unexpected’ by Elsie Production, which touches on teenage pregnancy, Ms Sarfo maintained that collective action is crucial not only to reduce but potentially eradicate it.

    “According to the Ghana Health Service data, 102,673 teenagers got pregnant in 2022 and that is very worrying. I will plead with our filmmakers, fellow celebrities with huge influence, and those on various social media platforms to use our voices and platforms to address this issue. Let us support the government in fighting this problem that is plaguing our country”, she stated.

    Ghanaian Actress, Gloria Osei Sarfo

    Proposing a strategy for filmmakers to contribute effectively, the Efiewura actress suggested they come out with works that delve into the challenges and factors contributing to teenage pregnancy. They should also raise awareness and encourage discussions on how to collectively address the issue.

    “We can’t sit back as creatives with influential platforms and voices and look on as cases of teenage pregnancy soar, we have a pivotal role to play. We need to address this issue that is destroying the lives of our young ones, who are the future leaders of our country. Let’s come together to fight this canker,” she explained.

    Also, Ms Sarfo implored stakeholders to embrace persons in the limelight and other creatives who are interested in collaborating with them to address such pressing issues and emphasised the importance of creating an enabling environment where these individuals would feel acknowledged and welcomed.

    Without a sense of recognition and openness from stakeholders to engage creatives in collaborative efforts, she warned that it could deter them from undertaking initiatives aimed at supporting government endeavours to mitigate the challenges.

    “The government and all our stakeholders must also give us (creatives) the platform and not stop us when we want to support a good cause. Most of our people will shy away from complementing the government’s efforts if they feel their ideas are not welcome or they are not needed”, she added.

  • It’s a shame to say my music is appreciated better outside Ghana – Wiyaala

    It’s a shame to say my music is appreciated better outside Ghana – Wiyaala

    Ghanaian singer and song-writer Noella Wiyaala Nwadei better known by her stage name Wiyaala has said that she is very popular in Ghana and does not pay heed to those who think otherwise. She described the people who had contributed to this assertion as shallow minded and shortsighted.

    The “Leno” hitmaker, in a recent interview with RazaSwaggy on “Rush Hour” in Cape Coast, revealed that she performs a lot in Ghana. This was in response to a question posed by the host whether she performed more outside Ghana than in Ghana. She further disclosed that a lot of her Ghanaian performances are corporate events and she does not see the need to post everything on social media.

    Wiyaala, who describes her genre of music as folk, traditional and African, acknowledges that not everyone appreciates her style of music, and stated that shouldn’t be a basis for people to be biased and discredit her work. She believes in her craft and knows her opinions are valid and important in the public eye. She further stated that it is a dent on the Ghanaian music industry and Ghanaians as a whole if people think her music is appreciated better by foreigners. “If people are saying white people are appreciating my music more than my own people, that means there’s something wrong with my own people,” she said.

    Ghanaian International music icon, Wiyaala #TheLioness

    On a lighter note, the singer mentioned her physique as one of the things that make her popular aside her unique talent. And further touted her popularity; “I know I am popular in Ghana. If I was not popular, you would not be interviewing me right now.”

    Wiyaala registered her presence on the Ghanaian music scene in 2009 with her first album, “Tumu.” She has since then chalked major success in her career, performed on several international stages and won several local and international awards. She headlined the 15th London African Music festival in 2017 and has been a member of the Grammy Recording Academy since July, 2022.

    (Story: Maame Adwoa A. Mensah)”

    Follow Kobby JosVan on all social media platforms for your credible updates |
  • Fameye Joins Forces with Bisa Kdei, Yaw Tog, Mr. Drew, and Amerado for an Epic Concert

    Fameye Joins Forces with Bisa Kdei, Yaw Tog, Mr. Drew, and Amerado for an Epic Concert

    Ghana’s music industry is set to witness an electrifying event as sensational artist Fameye brings together a stellar lineup of talented musicians for his highly anticipated upcoming concert. This gathering of musical powerhouses will feature none other than Yaw Tog, Mr. Drew, Bisa Kdei, Lasmid, King Paluta,,Amakyetherapper Amerado, Aziz Havoc,Fiifi Lattex,Kux promising an unforgettable night of entertainment and celebration.

    With each artist boasting their unique style and musical prowess, fans can expect an extraordinary showcase of talent and artistry in Ashanti Mampong Tadiem Park this 30th December

    The Rise of Fameye:

    Fameye, born Peter Famiyeh Bozah, has swiftly risen to prominence within the Ghanaian music scene. Known for his distinctive voice and soulful melodies, Fameye has captured the hearts of music lovers with hit tracks like “Nothing I Get” and “Praise.” His ability to blend afrobeats, highlife, and hip-hop has earned him a loyal fan base and critical acclaim.

    The Concert will be one unforgettable experience

    Fameye’s upcoming concert serves as a testament to his commitment to providing his fans with a remarkable live experience. From soulful melodies to high-energy performances and thought-provoking rap verses, the concert is set to showcase the diverse musical landscape of Ghana.

    The family concert upcoming is undoubtedly an event that music enthusiasts in Ghana cannot afford to miss. The collaboration of these talented artists is a testament to the vibrant and evolving nature of Ghana’s music industry. As they take the stage together, fans can expect an extraordinary display of talent, energy, and creativity. Fameye’s concert promises to be a night to remember, leaving a lasting impression on all attendees and further solidifying the legacy of these remarkable artists.

    Source: Gideon Mensah( Alltymsgh multimedia)

  • Ministry proposes 544% increase in passport application fees (Video)

    Ministry proposes 544% increase in passport application fees (Video)

    The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration has put a proposal before Parliament to review the current charges for passport application from GH¢100 to GH¢644.

    This is a 544% increase.

    The proposal, which is currently being considered by the Committee on Subsidiary Legislation, is to enable the ministry to curb losses in the printing of passport booklets.

    The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, who made this known in Parliament on Thursday, said “It is time for Ghanaians to pay realistic prices for passports they acquire to travel beginning next year.

    She said it is due to financial constraint prevailing in the economy, it had come to a point where it was no longer “sustainable” for the state to continue to subsidise passports.

    “Ghanaians pay just about GH¢100 for a passport yet to produce one passport booklet it costs GH¢400 which means that for every passport that an applicant acquires, the government has to put in GH¢300 and this is not sustainable,” she said.

    The minister stated this ahead of the approval of the GH¢1.127 million budget estimates for her ministry.

    Other countries’ charges

    Per the report by the Committee on Foreign Affairs on the 2024 budget estimates of the ministry, a comparison of Ghana’s passport fees with that of other West African countries shows the rate of $7.7 is the lowest within the sub-region.

    The report said Cameroon charges $180, Guinea $57, Guinea-Bissau $65, Burkina Faso $80 and Nigeria $54.29.

    Speaking to Graphic Online’s Nana Konadu Agyeman outside the Chamber, Ms Ayorkor Botchwey said the current passport fees in Ghana was insufficient to cover production costs.

    She stressed that the deficit in the printing of passport booklets was preventing the necessary investments in the Passport Office.

    “Passports are no longer sources of identification as we all have our national ID. Therefore, anybody who needs a passport and actually applies and acquires a passport does so because they have intention to travel.

    “So, if you are going to travel or you intend to travel and you cannot pay GH¢400 then it is unfortunate because even tickets are now expensive,” she said.

    The minister also appealed to Ghanaians who were not in a hurry to travel to, “please do not go for passports”.

    Dwelling on providing responsive services to applicants, Ms Botchwey said Ghanaians had complained about services and environment provided by the ministry at passport applications centres.

    To address such challenge, she said the ministry has provided applicants with options for consular services, passport, visas or attestations.

    “We have provided them with options to go to a premium centre where they pay a fee to the service provider in the comfort where they will be provided world class frontend services,” she said.

  • I won’t stop delivering complex lyrics in my music – M.anifest

    I won’t stop delivering complex lyrics in my music – M.anifest

    Rapper, M.anifest has revealed his intentions to continually challenge the brains of music consumers with his lyrical prowess because he stands for it.

    In a recent conversation on Hitz FM, the Ghanaian Hip Hop artist used the analogy of mining to describe his rap style, emphasizing that deep mining yields the best gold for miners rather than surface mining.

    According to him, he will not simplify his style and lyrics just because some people claim not to understand.

    “So this thing about big English, I use, I’m in the business of words so I’m not going to limit what I say. I’m just going to come and say Baby wine your waist.

    He continued; “I’m not going to limit it. My lyrics are understandable but you can also dig deeper for more.

    “In life, the most precious things are found deeper in the earth. Mining is not done on the surface, when you want the precious minerals you dig deep.

  • VIDEO: Kudus scores as West Ham secures top spot in Europa League Group A with win over Freiburg

    VIDEO: Kudus scores as West Ham secures top spot in Europa League Group A with win over Freiburg

    West Ham secured a direct qualification to the Europa League last 16 after a dominant 2-0 victory against Freiburg at London Stadium, ensuring they finished atop Group A.

    Mohammed Kudus broke the deadlock in the 14th minute, followed by Edson Alvarez’s strike just before half-time, sealing the win for the Hammers. The victory was crucial as both teams started the match with 12 points, vying for the top position in the group.

    Kudus, who has now scored three goals in five Europa League matches, demonstrated his prowess, contributing significantly to West Ham’s Group A triumph. The former Ajax star has also found the net three times in the English Premier League and once in the Carabao Cup against Arsenal.

    Kudus left the pitch in the 88th minute, substituted by Ivorian winger Maxwel Cornet, as West Ham shifts its focus to the upcoming Premier League clash against Wolves on Sunday.

    David Moyes’ team rebounded after a 5-0 defeat in the Premier League last weekend to secure a seeded position in the knockout stages and avoid a play-off.

    The hosts, eager for a 10th successive home win in Europe, came close to an early lead when Lucas Paqueta hit the Freiburg crossbar in the fifth minute. Kudus played a key role in West Ham’s opening goal, showcasing his skill with a well-timed run and finish past goalkeeper Noah Atubolu.

    Despite calls for offside and handball, VAR confirmed the goal, and Alvarez extended the lead with a composed finish just before half-time.

    Although Jarrod Bowen had a goal ruled out for offside, West Ham remained in control, with Freiburg struggling to pose a significant threat. Ritsu Doan tested Lukasz Fabianski, but West Ham continued to dominate.

    In the second half, Freiburg showed more resilience, with Doan forcing a save from Fabianski. However, West Ham maintained their ascendancy, with Czech full-back Vladimir Coufal providing a cut-back cross to Bowen, whose effort went over the bar.

    Despite Freiburg’s attempts, West Ham secured the victory, solidifying their position at the top of Group A in the Europa League. The Round of 16 awaits for David Moyes’ confident side.”

  • GH female comedians lack self belief —Jacinta

    GH female comedians lack self belief —Jacinta

    WHILE one can count a good number of male comedians in Ghana, you can count the females on one hand and still have some fingers left.

    And because comedy is male-dominated here, comedienne Jacinta reveals that females need a lot of confidence to break through.

    According to the talented Jacinta, the reason the country can boast of few female comedians is because they lack confidence.

    “It is presumed that comedy is for men and women are not cut for it so once you decide to be a comedian, you are seen in some way. I didn’t get it easy starting my career and I still get comments about why a beautiful girl like me has decided to ‘fool’.

    “I was very passionate about comedy and never cared about whatever anyone said. I needed to break through and in doing that, I had to build my confidence and today I am proud of what I have become. I never allowed whatever anyone said to bring me down.

    “You don’t have to listen to negative comments if you are focused on something,” she told the Graphic Showbiz in an interview.

    Jacinta, who headlined her shows One Night Stand last year and Woman On Top in October this year, added that female comediennes can, however, up their game by starting with the small gigs and then move to the bigger ones when they build their self-esteem.

    “I have featured a few females on my show a couple of times and what I realised is that they lacked self-confidence. Maybe, the stage was too much for them but they can start from the pubs, weddings and then move unto the main stage with time.

    “When you are so confident, you can even turn a joke which is not too funny into a side-splitting one. The boldness with which you would coin your joke will make the fans fall for it”, she disclosed.

    In addition to that, she also divulged that a lot of research needs to be done if one wants to succeed as a comedian. “Repeating jokes is not the best and to stay on top of your game, you need to research trending issues and get new jokes to always blow the minds of your audience. Light entertainment is not an easy task, especially if you want to be on top, “she said.

    The graduate of the Pentecost University College who featured in Yvonne Nelson’s movies Heels and Sneakers and Selfie was born Jacinta Asi Ocansey. She has performed at top comedy shows in Ghana and Nigeria. These include Comedy Night with Buchi (Lagos), Shakara and the Gang (Lagos), Comedy Express, Girltalk, Laughline, Live Comedy Thursdays, Lord of the Ribs, Easter Comedy Show, DKB Live, DKB Point of View, Akwaaba UK Comedy Night, Comedy Bar, Silverbird Comedy Night, Corporate Comedy Series, MMC Live among others.

    Some of the awards she has to her credit are Most Influential Student Comedian, Most Popular Student and Most Entertaining Student at the Ghana Tertiary Awards (2016).

  • Sarkodie’s ‘Rapperholic Exhibition’ an eye opener – Arnold Asamoah Baidoo writes

    Sarkodie’s ‘Rapperholic Exhibition’ an eye opener – Arnold Asamoah Baidoo writes

    IN July this year, Jay-Z, his imprint Roc-Nation and the Brooklyn Public Library (BPL) put together ‘Book of HOV’—a public exhibition chronicling Jay-Z’s musical legacy and it was unequivocally one of the best highlights of the year in pop culture.

    I knew that, if there’s any Ghanaian artiste who had what it takes to replicate what the American superstar did, it had to be Sarkodie!

    Critically acclaimed, longevity, consistency, dominance, influence and one of the most decorated acts of all time, it was just fitting and grand for Sarkodie’s musical legacy, which spans almost two decades to be on display.

    And in an industry and country where we have no dedicated museums for the creative industry and no ‘Walk of Fame’ concept, the Jay-Z-BPL model is the way to go.

    Storied Career

     Active in 2005, first album in 2009, Sarkodie’s career has been golden and the accomplishments struck thus far are enough to bask over and celebrate.

    It is no ordinary feat that in an industry where new ‘Kings’ are made easily and ‘old ‘ luminaries are retired early, Sarkodie’s longevity and ability to remain dominant, relevant and ‘hungry’ needs a louder touting.

    It is germane to have the general populace have a stint of such a stellar legacy; the projects, plethora of awards, sold out concerts, philanthropic work, significant collaborations and everything else that has defined the musician thus far in his career.

     Solid Partnership

    Last week, it was Image Bureau, Aprils Communication partnering with National Theatre to offer one of the best theatricals in the year. This time, Sarkodie’s Sarkcess imprint has collaborated Eagle Plug and Mix Design Hub, two firms that curated the first ever ‘Rapperholic Exhibition’.

    Obviously inspired by the ‘Book of HOV’ exhibition, Eagle Plug and Mix Design Hub firstly picked on the right artiste, one  with too many accolades and credits to showcase. They also timed it right, just days to one of the biggest concerts in Ghana, the 10th anniversary of ‘Rapperholic Concert’ appropriately themed, ‘“Rapperholic: The Rebirth”.

    The exhibition hosted by the Mix Design Hub in Osu is opened for just  five days and although the duration is short, it is understandable considering the fact that, it is arguably the first time this is being done in contemporary times and there’s also the issue of space.

    Hopefully, such a brilliant showcase would get the necessary support to ensure an extended version or probably moved to a bigger space that can accommodate many.

    Impressive Organisation

     The exhibition has been beautifully put together to align with the personality of the artiste, and the zeal and commitment of ‘SarkNatives’ to see to its success by helping with the process has been commendable.

    Firstly, there was a private session that was attended by some high profile personalities, business moguls, Dr. Osei Kwame, Dr. Ofori Sarpong, venerated actress, Nadia Buari and a host of others. Intriguingly, the spouse and the kids of the artiste also graced the occasion.

    The legendary Amakye Dede was also present on Tuesday for a tour plus a performance. The line-up of activities includes a Student Tour, a Fireside Chat, Curators Dialogue and Podcast session.

    The exhibition closes on the 16th of December 2023!

     Way To Go

     There are quite a lot of Ghanaian artistes who have worked, blazed the trail and cemented their legacies that need proper showcase to the rest of the world.

    Sarkodie, together with his partners got inspired and run with the idea and made it work. Others can easily replicate the move!

    Creatives should not always wait on government to take the initiative. With the right partnership, resources and support, anything is possible to fix in this industry.

    “Creatives should not always wait on government to take the initiative. With the right partnership, resources and support, anything is possible to fix in this industry.

    The biggest arenas across the world that host major entertainment events are not owned by government but private entities.

    Private entities and accomplished business magnates as well these creatives can capitalise on the convivial atmosphere provided by the government and take bold steps in realising some projects and initiatives.

    Sarkodie, Eagle Plug and Mix Design did not have to wait on any governmental support to make this work. Make a move!”

  • Some people come into your life to use and dump you, says Efya

    Some people come into your life to use and dump you, says Efya

    Multiple award-winning Ghanaian artiste, Efya is warning people to be wary of friends who come into their lives for their selfish benefits.

    According to her, it had taken her a while to realise that some people only build relationship with others just to use them and not because they love them.

    Sharing her experience on X yesterday, the Best in Me singer disclosed a great betrayal where some people pretend to be friends and show great love in your presence but quickly turn around to say the worst things in your absence.

    She wrote: “It took me a while to realise that some people come into your life to USE YOU..!!! Damn!! They hate u.. but they stay cos of what they can get from u.. they talking shit behind your back when u ain’t there n kiss ur ass when u there … yeah.. and they swear they GENG …I know this now… EYE CLEAR…WE MOVE!!!!!! (sic)”.

    Her followers shared in her opinions, commending her for boldly sharing her experience and bringing to light to growing phenomenon in the society.

    Earlier in July this year, Efya made headlines when she lamented about the misunderstandings and assumptions about her brand. ( ReadIt’s disheartening to be ridiculed based on assumptions -Efya)

    In a series of tweets, the four time VGMA Best Vocal Performer said she always strived to give the best in everything she did and her commitments to delivering quality music and unforgettable experiences remained unwavering.

    “It is disheartening to be ridiculed based on misunderstandings and assumptions. I hope this thread provides clarity and sheds light on the intricacies of the music industry. Let us focus on celebrating each other’s achievements rather than perpetuating unnecessary controversies,” she said at the time.”

  • African music icon, Wiyaala builds art & cultural center in Funsi (Video)

    African music icon, Wiyaala builds art & cultural center in Funsi (Video)

    Noella Wiyaala Nwadei is a Ghanaian International Afro-pop singer, songwriter and a performer. She is known by the stage name Wiyaala who hails from the Wa in the Upper West region of Ghana.

    The Young and energetic performer after her music breakthrough has been consistent with her craft, gaining ground on many international recognitions. She is known for singing in her native language, sissala, waala and English blended with sweet African rhythms.

    With her association with the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection and UNICEF Ghana, the Lioness has been very instrumental using her platform to campaign against child marriage, child poverty, health and sanitation.

    Wiyaala Art & Culture Center

    The international music icon has started her new project “Wiyaala Arts and Cultural Center. Construction has begun and ongoing at Funsi, a suburb in the Upper West region. The center is aimed for impacting and educating the young generation on the importance of Africa culture through music and arts.

    Wiyaala announced a reality “Yaga Yaga talent show” which is intended to groom and nurture young amazing talents to become global stars. Audition has already ended, waiting for main event to commence.