Entertainment
Buddy Doubara Agedah makes history with Ghana Dance Merit Award
Nigeria’s Buddy Doubara Agedah has made history as the first and only non-Ghanaian, to receive the prestigious Ghana Dance Merit Award for Afro-Latin Dance Development in West Africa (2025), an accolade awarded purely on merit.
This remarkable achievement not only recognizes his exceptional contributions to Afro-Latin dance but also solidifies his legacy as a cultural pioneer and ambassador of dance excellence.
This event, the second Ghana Dance Industry (GHADI) Awards, took place on Saturday, February 8, 2025, at the National Theatre.
A Trailblazer in Dance and Cultural Exchange
Buddy’s influence transcends borders. As the Founder and Director of Dance & Art Alive and the West Africa Afro-Latin Dance Festival, he has redefined social dance culture, creating platforms that celebrate creativity, cultural exchange, and unity.
His vision has empowered young talents to pursue their dreams and showcased the richness of Afro-Latin dance on a global stage.
Mentorship and Shaping the Future of Dance
Buddy’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of dancers is unparalleled. By creating opportunities for emerging talents, he has paved the way for many to build successful careers.
His international cultural exchange initiatives have connected dancers from Nigeria, Ghana, Ivory Coast, Benin Republic, and beyond. Many of his mentees are now influential figures in the industry, a testament to his role as a visionary mentor.
From Judge to Cultural Icon
Buddy’s integrity and expertise earned him roles as a dance judge on top platforms like the Maltina Family Dance All reality TV show, Society for the Performing Arts in Nigeria Salsa championships, and other international competitions, including a prestigious event in Ivory Coast.
His guidance and evaluations have inspired excellence, shaping the careers of countless dancers.
Advocacy Through Dance
Buddy is more than a dancer; he’s a social advocate. By integrating health awareness campaigns, including breast cancer screenings, into major dance events, he has redefined the purpose of art as a tool for social change.
His creative approach has saved lives and inspired communities.
A Legacy of Excellence and Inspiration
With a career spanning over two decades, Buddy’s journey from Dance & Art Alive to international acclaim is a testament to his passion, creativity, and purpose.
He continues to inspire through his innovative approach, cultural diplomacy, and commitment to social advocacy.
Ghanaian music icon, Akwasi Poku Addae, known in Showbiz circles as Kwaisey Pee has honoured his promise to children suffering from cancer.
Ahead of his 25th anniversary event held at the D’ Icon Event Centre at East Legon last year, he made a promise to donate some funds to children suffering from cancer.
True to his word, the musician has recently made a donation of GHC50,000 to the Paediatric Oncology Unit of the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital.
He told the Ghanaian Times that children are so dear to him, and was optimistic the support would go a long way too impact lives.
The music dynamo also promised that the gesture will not be the last,” it will be a continuous feature from me.”
He also called on Ghanaians home and abroad to lend a helping hand to children suffering from cancer.
According to him, children with cancer have many needs, and a helping hands will go a long way ease the suffering.
“Cancer treatment is very expensive, and leaving that to parents of the children alone, will be a huge burden, with support from you and myself, we can make some changes in other people’s lives,” he concluded.
By Edem Mensah-Tsotorme
In the ever-evolving journey of Ghanaian music, there are individuals whose contributions transcend the spotligh.
There are always men and women who work quietly yet powerfully to preserve culture, nurture legends, and keep the soul of the music alive across generations and borders.
One such figures is Jerry Amoah, widely known and affectionately called Nana Kobo.
This year, Ghana Music Awards-USA honours Jerry Amoah for his unwavering commitment to sustaining Ghanaian music, both at home and in the diaspora.
It is a recognition long deserved, a celebration of decades of passion, sacrifice, and cultural stewardship.
Jerry Amoah’s journey has never been about personal glory. Instead, it has been anchored in service: promoting Ghanaian sounds, advocating for artistes, and ensuring that the richness of Ghana’s musical heritage continues to resonate beyond national borders.
Through his tireless efforts, many Ghanaian musicians have found platforms, audiences, and renewed relevance, especially within Ghanaian communities abroad.
Central to his legacy is his steadfast support for gospel music and, in particular, his enduring association with legendary gospel icon Yaw Sarpong.
At times when gospel music needed champions, Jerry Amoah stood firm—protecting its values, amplifying its message, and honoring its pioneers. His respect for Yaw Sarpong is not merely professional; it reflects a deep appreciation for music as ministry, heritage, and moral compass.
Colleagues often describe Nana Kobo as a bridge—connecting generations, genres, and geographies.
He understands that Ghanaian music is not just entertainment, but identity. Through festivals, promotions, mentorship, and behind-the-scenes advocacy, he has helped ensure that Ghana’s rhythms, lyrics, and spiritual expressions remain relevant in a globalized world.
As Ghana Music Awards-USA prepares to bestow this honour, it is not simply recognizing one man—it is saluting a lifetime of dedication to culture, faith, and music.
Jerry Amoah’s story reminds us that true impact is measured not by applause, but by legacy.
And in the story of Ghanaian music, Nana Kobo’s legacy is written in bold, enduring notes.
