Entertainment
11 African countries, three languages: Merck Foundation CEO acknowledges health workers with “My White Army”
As part of effort to encourage and show solidarity for health workers risking their lives to save lives amidst the coronavirus pandemic, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Merck Foundation, Dr Rasha Kelej has shown the way.
He has produced a song by bringing together musicians from 11 African countries to use three languages, English, French and Arabic to compose a song.
The song written by a Ghanaian contemporary gospel music dynamo, Cwesi Oteng is to acknowledge the amazing work by, doctors, nurses and other hospital staff in Africa.
Other artistes on the song include, A Pass from Uganda, Kambua from Kenya, Mahmoud Al Leithy from Egypt, Nikki from Nigeria, Rozzy from Sierra Leone, Salatiel from Cameroon, Sean K from Namibia, Sunita from The Gambia, Tom Close from Rwanda and Wezi from Zambia.
Speaking of the new song, Dr Kelej emphasised, “I strongly believe, it is important for the people on the front line; doctors, nurses and health workers know how grateful we are. I don’t want this to be a one-off thank you, but one that becomes a regular act of gratitude across our communities. I have heard stories of horrible behaviour against our health workers, such as, landlords are forcefully evicting them due to paranoia that they might spread COVID -19. It is shocking, illegal and inhuman behaviour”.
She further added that though she was not a professional music director or producer, as the CEO of Merck Foundation she had produced and directed many documentaries with the aim to break the stigma around infertile women and to empower women and girls in education in Africa and Asia as part of their programmes.
“So, I believe I have the talent and experience needed. Most importantly, I have the vision of inclusive Africa, all regions of Africa; North, South, West and East in one work and one initiative that goes across the whole continent and the whole world,” Rasha Kelej added.
Aside this, which is her personal contribution towards the COVID-19 fight, her organisation, Merck Foundation has partnered with 18 First Ladies in four main focus areas which include; supporting the livelihood of thousands of casual workers and women during the lockdown, launching the ‘Stay at Home’ Media Recognition Awards, launching an inspiring children storybook ‘Make the Right Choice’ to sensitise children and youth about coronavirus and building healthcare capacity by providing online one year diploma for African doctors in Respiratory Medicines and Acute Medicines.
By Edem Mensah-Tsotorme
Ghana’s singing Prophet, Joseph Atarah, has released a video for his new song dubbed ‘Increase’. The video was directed and shot by renowned director, Sky Web.
The motivational video exhibits captivating dance moves, set against the vibrant and beautiful city of Accra. Prophet Atarah co-wrote the song with Nana Boateng.
Touching on the message during an interview on Hitz FM’s Daybreak Hitz, he said, ‘Increase’ is a motivational song telling people not to give up in their present situation. According to him, with determination and a relentless desire to succeed, God will make everything beautiful.
“As you trust in God’s plan, remember that ‘INCREASE’ is on the way. Just as seeds grow into harvest, your faith is growing into abundance. God’s got you, and His increase is surrounding you,” he added.
Prophet Atarah resigned from the military band in 2006 after an encounter with God to start his prophetic ministry and commenced his music journey about four years ago.
By Edem Mensah-Tsotorme
Join our WhatsApp Channel now!
https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VbBElzjInlqHhl1aTU27
Fast-rising Ghanaian gospel musician, Rama Antwi, is set to take over the world as she releases her much-awaited single dubbed, ‘Wakae Me’. The song carries a thanksgiving message to show gratitude to God for life-changing miracles.
Speaking to The Spectator Agoro, she said the song is a testimony of her journey in the music industry, from her basic school days to TV3 Mentor and her current situation. According to her, no matter what people are going through, the Lord will remember them, adding that all they need is to pray and not relent.
She said there are times in one’s life that challenges make people forget that God is in charge. Rama said, “The situation makes it difficult for you to even believe God could change the situation for you. This song is to let you know that whatever is happening, a day will come for you to smile.”
“When the time comes, your miracle will happen to your amazement; those who used to mock you will be the same people to praise you,” Rama Antwi added.
According to her, she has seen that testimony in her life, adding that it is why she was offering thanksgiving through the song.
Rama Antwi appealed to everyone, including various industry players, to support the song to reach the intended audience.
The video, which was directed and shot by Sky Web, and the song, produced by Shadrack Yawson, is available on all digital stores.
By Edem Mensah-Tsotorme
Join our WhatsApp Channel now!
https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VbBElzjInlqHhl1aTU27
