Ab TV GH

Category: Entertainment

  • Power struggle in Actors Guild killing industry –Fred Amugi

    Power struggle in Actors Guild killing industry –Fred Amugi

    Abtvgh / Veteran Ghanaian actor 

    VETERAN Ghanaian actor Fred Amugi has spoken out about his frustrations with the unending litigation over the leadership of the Actors Guild of Ghana, which is hurting the growth of the movie industry.

    He mentioned that the absence of a functioning and effective leadership to steer affairs of the sector had slowed things down for the industry.

    Since the death of Reverend Eddie Coffie, President of the guild, in 2016, elections for new executives have been in limbo, denying the guild the chance to have the leadership to manage affairs of the industry, as well as seek the well-being of actors.

    Speaking in an interview with Abtvgh on Monday, May 20, 2024, Mr Amugi prayed the Guild would settle their differences and get back on its feet.

    “The film industry is like any other business. It has its ups and downs. However, for the past few years, it’s been having issues of power struggles and conflicts, especially within the Ghana Actors Guild.

    “This has led to a decline in productivity and quality because what’s being produced is not checked. We’re lucky to have Akwaaba Magic on DStv, which has provided a platform for our films. They’ve been supportive and willing to work with us, and the films they show are good. If we keep making good films, we’ll benefit from their support.

    “Unfortunately, Nigeria’s film industry is ahead of ours. They have more opportunities with subscription-based streaming services such as Netflix, and we need to work together to catch up,” he stated.

    Mr Amugi also shared his concerns about the lack of collaboration and cooperation in the industry, which he believes is hindering the production of high-quality films that can favourably compete anywhere.

    “The film industry in Ghana needs unity. Currently, everyone is working alone because they’re afraid of being copied. The truth, however, is that no matter how much we know, someone else always knows more. If we work together in unity, we could make great films that showcase our different talents and perspectives,” he said.

    “If we are united, we could even gain enough recognition in prestigious awards such as the Africa Magic Viewer’s Choice Awards (AMVCA),” he emphasised.

  • To elect or not to elect MMDCES: Setting our priorities right

    To elect or not to elect MMDCES: Setting our priorities right

    Abtvgh / CDD-Ghana

    The election of metropolitan, municipal, and district chief executives (MMDCEs) is one of the issues that have engaged the attention of all Ghanaians in formal and informal circles for some time now.

    The Ghana Centre for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana) reported on October 1, 2021, in the findings of a survey it conducted on local government and related issues that 76 per cent of the respondents preferred the election of MMDCEs while 20 per cent wanted them to be appointed by the President (www.cddgh.org).

    The Minister of Local Government, Decentralisation and Rural Development, Daniel Botwe, indicated on July 24, 2023, that they had tasked the Institute of Local Government Studies (ILGS) to facilitate consensus building for the election of MMDCEs (www.gna.org.gh).

    In its editorial of July 26, 2023, the Daily Graphic, referencing the statement of the Minister, noted that “An important national conversation such as the election of MMDCEs can never be glossed over or be a back-burner issue”. (www.graphic.com.gh).

    The Deputy Minister-designate for Local Government, Decentralisation and Rural Development, Mr Vincent Ekow Assafuah “reignited” the issue, according to a GNA report of March 11, 2024 (www.gna.org.gh).

    Ghana will benefit greatly if the print media and other news outlets give the election of MMDCEs equal attention as they do other issues in their reportage. Traditional rulers, religious and opinion leaders, the academia, political commentators and, indeed, the entire country would equally need to consider this as a matter of primary national interest.

    Ghanaians would be more satisfied with our Parliamentarians and take them seriously if they were to consider the amendment of the Constitution for the election of MMDCEs, and other needed amendments, with a similar passion and speed as they do with other Bills.

    Decentralisation of governance is fundamental to the country’s progress and development. Besides, people are yearning for the review of the Constitution. It is helpful to be realistic, pragmatic and visionary on national issues rather than to be driven by emotions and self-serving interests.

    Benefits

    Some of the benefits of the above are that:

    • The decentralisation of governance will help to effectively address local needs, as the people would be actively engaged in decision-making and implementation processes. Such a step will end the era of tying development to the manifestoes and machinations of political parties, thereby taking the wind out of the sail of politicians who usually place the interests of their parties over and above real national issues.

    • The election of MMDCEs will relieve the Central Government of carrying the burden of the entire nation. 
    Ensuring that local governments are truly independent will enable the respective communities to set their local priorities, for they know their needs better than the Central Government, and in some cases even better than the Parliamentarians who represent these communities.

    • Electing local government officials will promote accountability and help to curb mismanagement and corruption, as these and other issues would be monitored at close range, instead of the remotely controlled monitoring system.

    • Decentralising governance will help create jobs and minimise rural-urban migration. Such a system can further engender healthy development competition amongst districts and municipalities.

    • Decentralising our current system of governance will clearly distinguish the functions of MMDCEs from those of parliamentarians. This will enable parliamentarians to focus on their constitutionally mandated duty of legislation.

    Though parliamentarians may lobby for projects for their constituencies, the actual management and supervision must be left to local authorities. There are dynamic and more efficient MMDCEs who can initiate and supervise projects better than some sector ministers. 

    Methods

    Some people are normally apprehensive about change. But things cannot always be done the same way! New and emerging challenges require new methods of addressing them.

    The election of the leaders “of the people, by the people, on the local level” is a practical and realistic expression of participatory democracy. Those who may doubt the viability of such a system of governance, namely the election of MMDCEs, need to appreciate that society is dynamic. My plea is to put to the test that which has not been tested.

    The writer is a Catholic Priest residing in Bahamas.
    E-mail:  fosei2014@gmail.com

  • Tsatsu Tsikata to inaugurate CIR lecture series on land law in Ghana

    Tsatsu Tsikata to inaugurate CIR lecture series on land law in Ghana

    Abtvgh / CIR

    The Chartered Institute of Realtors (CIR) and the Chamber of Real Estate (CRE) have announced an upcoming lecture series focusing on Land Law in Ghana.

    The series will feature a lineup of top legal experts covering critical topics such as property rights, land registration, zoning, transactions, disputes, and legal aspects of development projects.

    The inaugural lecture, set to commence on June 18, 2024, will take place in Accra.

    Esteemed legal luminary Tsatsu Tsikata will launch the series with a lecture titled “The Real Estate Industry in Ghana and National Development.”

    The series will continue on June 20, 25, and 27, 2024, providing comprehensive insights into the real estate sector’s legal frameworks.

    Mr. Tsikata, celebrated for his profound expertise in corporate and constitutional law, will share his extensive legal experience, particularly focusing on the importance of legal reforms in promoting sustainable development, enhancing investment confidence, and ensuring equitable access to housing and land resources.

    His lecture will run from 5 pm to 8 pm on the opening day, setting the stage for a thorough exploration of the regulatory and compliance issues that shape Ghana’s real estate landscape.

    The CIR lecture series promises to deliver in-depth analysis on pivotal legal frameworks, offering valuable perspectives on property rights, land tenure systems, and other essential aspects of real estate law. Attendees can look forward to gaining a deeper understanding of the regulatory changes and compliance challenges facing the industry, fostering fair and equitable solutions for all stakeholders.

    This event presents a unique opportunity for a wide range of participants, including real estate professionals, government officials, policymakers, academics, researchers, financial institutions, community leaders, advocates, students, and anyone interested in the real estate sector. It aims to provide insights, facilitate networking, and inspire collaborative efforts to leverage the real estate industry’s potential for societal benefit.

    The Chartered Institute of Realtors is dedicated to enhancing the knowledge, skills, and experience of professionals and individuals interested in the real estate industry through quality training and learning opportunities. 

    Interested individuals are encouraged to register for the lecture at charteredinstituteofrealtors to secure their attendance. Certificates of participation will be issued at the end of the first part of the series.

  • Beyoncé sued by New Orleans group over “Break My Soul” sample

    Beyoncé sued by New Orleans group over “Break My Soul” sample

    Abtvgh / Beyonce / Matters

    Beyoncé is facing a new lawsuit over one of her hit singles.

    According to a complaint reviewed by Billboard, the 42-year-old singer, her record label Sony Music, and other parties are being sued by Da Showstoppaz, a New Orleans-based group that claims Beyoncé infringed their 2002 song “Release a Wiggle” for her 2022 Renaissance single “Break My Soul” by legally sampling Big Freedia’s 2014 song “Explode.”

    Big Freedia, 46, legally known as Freddie Ross, who Da Showstoppaz accused of illegally lifting key lyrics from their song to create “Explode,” is also named as a defendant in the suit.

    The lawsuit, filed in Louisiana federal court, centres on the phrase “release yo wiggle” and related variations, which the group claims are unique to their song.

    “While Mrs. Carter…and others have received many accolades and substantial profits…Da Showstoppaz’s have received nothing—no acknowledgement, no credit, no remuneration of any kind,” wrote the group’s attorneys, per Billboard.

    Da Showstoppaz’ legal reps also claim that Big Freedia’s use of these phrases in their single “Explode” infringes on the group’s copyrights, contributing to the artist’s fame without crediting them. 

    “The infringing phrase ‘release yo’ wiggle’ and several other substantially similar phrases are featured prominently in the song and evenly spread out across Explode’s two-minute and forty-seven second runtime,” the lawyers added. “Any reasonable person listening to ‘Release A Wiggle’ and ‘Explode’ would conclude that the songs are substantially similar.”

    Billboard also notes that copyright law typically doesn’t protect “short, simple phrases” and that a court could hypothetically dismiss the case. Despite this, Da Showstoppaz’ lawyers feel confident in their case, adding they “have a copyright to their unique and distinctive lyrics” that were allegedly infringed upon by Freedia.

    “The coined term and phrase ‘release a/yo wiggle’ has now become closely synonymous with Big Freedia, thereby contributing to Big Freedia’s fame,” wrote the lawyers further into the suit. “However, Big Fredia did not compose or write the phrase, and Big Freedia never credited Da Showstoppaz as the source.”

    Da Showstoppaz claim they first learned about Big Freedia’s “Explode” through Beyoncé’s “Break My Soul.” They also say they contacted Beyoncé and others about the alleged infringement but did not receive a response.

    “Break My Soul” was the surprise lead single for Beyoncé’s blockbuster Renaissance LP. According to Billboard, the song, which also samples Robin S.’s “Show Me Love,” topped the Hot 100 chart for two weeks, becoming her first solo No. 1 hit in 14 years since 2008’s “Single Ladies.”

  • Mother’s joy as son named world’s youngest male artist

    Mother’s joy as son named world’s youngest male artist

    Abtvgh / GWR

    The mother of the Ghanaian toddler officially recognised as the world’s youngest male painter has told the BBC of her pride in her son’s artistic ability, and hopes he can take the art world by storm.

    Ace-Liam Nana Sam Ankrah achieved the incredible feat aged one year and 152 days.

    “He already knows what colours complement each other,” said his mother Chantelle Kuukua Eghan, who has been an artist herself for eight years.

    Ms Eghan said she first realised his talent when he was only six months old.

    The mother of the Ghanaian toddler officially recognised as the world’s youngest male painter has told the BBC of her pride in her son’s artistic ability, and hopes he can take the art world by storm.

    Ace-Liam Nana Sam Ankrah achieved the incredible feat aged one year and 152 days.

    “He already knows what colours complement each other,” said his mother Chantelle Kuukua Eghan, who has been an artist herself for eight years.

    Ms Eghan said she first realised his talent when he was only six months old.

    Ace-Liam was officially honoured with the title last Monday, after five months of waiting for Guinness World Records (GWR) to ratify their attempt.

    “When I opened the email I just broke down and thanked God,” Ms Eghan told the BBC.

    To qualify for the record, GWR said Ace-Liam needed to be part of a professional exhibition that was open to the public and sell his work.

    It added that the work needed to be done to a professional standard and evidence presented that it was done on his own

    Ace-Liam’s work was exhibited at the Museum of Science and Technology in the capital Accra, from last December to early January.

    He sold nine of the 10 pieces that were on display and was even commissioned by the First Lady, Rebecca Akufo-Addo, who attended the exhibit.

    The prodigy, who turns two in July, has sold 15 paintings throughout his career so far, and is set to host an auction soon.

    But this dive into the art world was initially unintended.

  • GHONE TV employs a beautiful girl to replace Serwaa Amihere?

    GHONE TV employs a beautiful girl to replace Serwaa Amihere?

    Accra-based television station, GHONE TV is yet to make an official statement regarding the leaked video of media personality, Serwaa Amihere.

    Many netizens have opinionated that GHOne TV should sack the media personality without hesitation.

    According to them, the action of Serwaa would mar the hard- earned reputation of the renowned media outlet.

    Even though GHONE TV has not replied to any of the suggestions made by netizens, it’s obvious suggestions of sacking Serwaa Amihere have been swept under the canopy.

    Meanwhile, GHONE TV has employed a beautiful Ghanaian lady to partner with Serwaa on her show.

    Taking to their official Instagram page, GHONE Tv posted a picture of Vanesa Efia Tutuwaa, the newly employed lady and captioned it “Inhale some fresh gurl sweetness! Our very own Vanesa Efia Tutuwaa Danso ladies and gentlemen”.

    Even though they didn’t state precisely that Tutuwaa would be assisting Serwaa on her show, close sources have divulged that Tutuwaa would be supporting Serwaa Amihere.

  • Presidents and big men want to chop me- Wendy Shay brags

    Presidents and big men want to chop me- Wendy Shay brags

    Ghanaian musician, Wendy Shay aka “Ghana Wake Up” has made a shocking disclosure.

    After making series of posts via her official social media handles to falsify claims of being a prey to Henry Fitz, Wendy Shay felt going verbal is the better way.

    In a self recorded video flying across social media platforms, Wendy Shay has insisted she has never slept with Henry Fitz in exchange of money, saying that she does not personally know him.

    The Shay geng leader noted that everything she has in life, including buying a Range Rover was worked for.

    She disclosed that selling her body in exchange of money would be the very last thing she would do on earth.

    To prove that she is a big girl and does not sell her body, Wendy shockingly revealed that a lot presidents and wealthy men are in her dm, intending to have sex with her in exchange of money.

    According to her, she has not given any of the aforementioned categories of people a listening ear, saying that is not who she is.

  • “Atopa wahala” – I have over 20 videos with Serwaa Amihere – Henry Fitz speaks and drops dirty secrets

    “Atopa wahala” – I have over 20 videos with Serwaa Amihere – Henry Fitz speaks and drops dirty secrets

    The man of the moment, Henry Fitz, has officially spoken for the first time after his intimate video with Serwaa Amihere went rife on social media 4 days ago.

    In an exclusive interview with famous Ghanaian TikToker Mr Carlos, Henry Fitz emphatically stated that he’s not the one behind the leak of the now infamous video.

    Going on, Henry Fitz also asserted that he has over 20 ‘intimate’ videos with the award-winning TV presenter.

    As explained by Henry, in some of the over 20 videos, Serwaa Amihere willingly recorded herself and later sent them to him.

    The others were also made on a mutual agreement therefore there’s no way he will leak them on social media just to chase clout or blackmail her as she wants Ghanaians to believe.

    Pained Henry Fitz also added that he would never leak a video of such kind because he has 7 kids and he wouldn’t be happy if they grow up to see such content of him on social media.

  • I begged to join Ghana’s boxing team for the African Games – Gold medalist Mohammed Aryeetey

    I begged to join Ghana’s boxing team for the African Games – Gold medalist Mohammed Aryeetey

    Gold medalist at the 2023 African Games, Mohammed Aryeetey, has revealed he had to ‘plead’ to the Ghana Boxing Federation to include him in Ghana’s team for the competition.

    According to the boxer, there was no slot provided for him to compete in the Games which prompted him to react immediately.

    Aryeetey eventually went ahead to secure one of Ghana’s four gold medals in the sporting discipline. He defeated Tulembekwa Zola Livens at the Boxing Arena at the Trust Sports Emporium, Bukom.

    Aryeetey, a former national Flyweight champion, won the final via a unanimous decision.

    The James Town-based boxer said: “It came to a time that I had to plead to join the team [for the African Games] which was not supposed to be. I had to do it because there were a lot of politics going on in the team.

    “I spoke to the President of the Federation and we did our possible best and they gave me the opportunity to join. They told me someone had occupied my weight category so I had to drop down and I promised them I could do it.

    “I used the camping in Cape Coast to do my best [in terms of dropping to the minimum weight category]. I was training while everyone was asleep…”

    Aryeetey has asked to be given an opportunity to participate in the upcoming 2024 Olympic Games qualifiers to take place in Thailand next month.

  • Kusi honored with Black Star Award at Akwaaba Festival ‘24

    Kusi honored with Black Star Award at Akwaaba Festival ‘24

    The Akwaaba Festival, dedicated to celebrating Ghana’s rich culture through music, food, and accessories, concluded with an auspicious awards night, honoring Kofi Atta Kakra Kusi and other notable figures who have made significant contributions to humanity and showcased the beauty of the motherland.

    The Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA), in collaboration with the National Commission on Culture (NCC), Musicians Union of Ghana (MUSIGA), and Ceejay Multimedia, hosted a large number of attendees from Ghana and the Diaspora at the National Theatre for the three-day event.

    During the ceremony, Kofi Atta Kakra Kusi, a GTA official, was awarded the honorary Black Star award in recognition of his notable efforts and contributions to society.

    Distinguished guests from various sectors of government and the private sector commended him for his outstanding service.

    The organizers of the festival commended Kusi for his invaluable services to Ghana’s arts, culture, and tourism sectors.

     In his acceptance speech, Kusi expressed gratitude to the GTA’s board of directors, management, and staff for their unwavering support.

    He also announced his recent promotion to Deputy Director in charge of Domestic Marketing as of February 1, 2024.

    The third edition of the Akwaaba festival provided Ghanaians with a genuine sense of the country’s rich heritage through cultural exhibitions, food bazaars, and musical performances by Ghanaian talents.

    Highlighting the festival were the two-day free musical concert, “Highlife Time,” sponsored by MUSIGA.

    The celebrations culminated in an exuberant awards night at the National Theatre, where several other notable figures, including Madam Amy Frimpong, Mr. Stephen Ofori, Nana Otuo Owoahene Acheampong, and Mr. Akwasi Awuah Ababio, were honored for their service to humanity.

    About Mr. Kofi Atta Kakra Kusi

    Kofi Atta Kakra Kusi, currently serving as the Deputy Director in charge of Domestic Marketing at the Ghana Tourism Authority, has an extensive educational background.

    He holds a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Philosophy from the University of Ghana, Legon, and a Master of Arts (M.A.) in Public Relations from the Ghana Institute of Journalism (now UNIMAC – IJ).

    Additionally, he obtained a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Marketing at Methodist University College, Ghana, and holds a Certificate in Tourism and Hospitality Management from the University of Johannesburg, South Africa.

    Throughout his career, Kusi has held various positions within the Ghana Tourism Authority, demonstrating his commitment to promoting Ghana’s culture and tourism.

    He has received numerous awards and recognitions for his contributions, including the Africa Corporate Man of the Year Award and the Young Tourism Icon of the Year Award. As a staunch Pan-Africanist, Kusi advocates for Africans to tell and showcase their own stories and history to build confidence in the youth for the future.