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11 African countries, three languages: Merck Foundation CEO acknowledges health workers with “My White Army”

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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.

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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.

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By Edem Mensah-Tsotorme

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Medikal urges Ghanaian musicians to prioritise financial security

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Ghanaian rapper Medikal has advised musicians to focus on building financial security rather than relying mainly on awards, shows and public recognition.

According to him, the difficult situations some senior musicians face after years in the industry should serve as a lesson to younger artistes.

Medikal made the comments on TikTok while sharing his thoughts on an interview involving veteran Ghanaian musician DJ Barosky, whom he claimed is currently homeless in the United Kingdom.

He expressed surprise at the situation, noting that he grew up listening to and admiring some of the senior musicians who influenced his generation.

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“Bro, right now, social media, I know if you tell which one be real or what be fake,” Medikal stated, questioning the reality of what people see online.

He argued that musicians should make money and put proper financial plans in place while they are active in the industry.

“If you be artist for this country, you for make money, collect money, put certain things in place,” he said.

Medikal stressed that awards and performances were important but should not replace financial planning.

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He encouraged artistes to be careful with their relationships and to understand that the entertainment industry is largely driven by money.

According to him, even friendships can change when a person’s financial circumstances change.

He therefore urged musicians not to become discouraged by financial losses but to remain focused on creating wealth.

“Make money. If you lose money, still collect money,” he advised.

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Medikal said the experiences of older artistes should encourage current musicians to take their finances seriously and prepare for life beyond their peak years in the entertainment industry.

By: Jacob Aggrey

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Miss Tourism Ghana princesses dazzle patrons at Regional Costume & Talent Night show

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Miss tourism queens on the runway

It was a night of colour, culture and creativity as Miss Tourism Ghana successfully held its Regional Costume & Talent Night in Accra.

The event drew fashion lovers, culture enthusiasts, and proud supporters who came out to witness Ghana’s beauty queens represent their regions on one grand stage. 

From the moment guests stepped in, the atmosphere was electric, ushering,

Okra, Zabe, Gina, Akpe, Sela, Afia,Asher and Ajua into the auditorium to mesmerize patrons.

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The blistering night, commenced with a breathtaking regional costumes rocked by contestants that told stories of Ghana’s traditions from, african print, kente, smock, batakari, beads and other indigenous fabrics.

 Each outfit with beautiful local accessories to match was paired with confidence, poise, and pride.

The night then shifted gears into the talent segment. The audience was treated to powerful performances traditional dance, spoken word, fashion, singing, and drama all centered on promoting Ghana’s tourism and heritage.

The judges were stunned with the various displays and passed favorable commentaries encouraging the contestants to keep giving their all.

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 Patrons left with unforgettable moments, and the contestants delivered to their expectations.

Organisers of Miss Tourism Ghana congratulated all the amazing participants who took part and urged them to forged ahead strongly before the grand final.

They also, encouraged families and friends to keep their favourite in the competition through their campaigns and votes.

The search for Ghana’s next tourism ambassador is officially on, and the competition is getting tighter with each stage.

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Beyond the glamour, Miss Tourism Ghana continues to use the platform to market Ghana’s tourist sites, culture and hospitality to the world. 

The Regional Costume & Talent Night served as both entertainment and education, reminding Ghanaians of the beauty in our diversity.

By Edem Mensah-Tsotorme 

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