Entertainment
Demolition of Fantasy Dome unfair — Mark Okraku-Mantey
Months after the Fantasy Dome was dismantled to make way for construction at the Ghana International Trade Fair site, the Deputy Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mr Mark Okraku-Mantey, has expressed concern over the manner the facility was destroyed.
In an interview on Daybreak Hitz with Andy Dosty, Mr Okraku-Mantey criticised the handling of the dome’s dismantling, suggesting that it could have been done without causing damage.
“I don’t think that leadership gave instructions that they should do what happened. The structure was a prefab but I hear the people destroyed it. That one, we cannot defend it. It is unfair to him (owner). Sometimes, you give instructions and people will go and do things that will make you look bad,” he stated.
When asked about any punitive measure against the workers responsible for the destruction, Mr Okraku-Mantey clarified that the Trade Fair does not fall under his ministry.
He said he had previously contacted the owner, Leslie Quaynor, to discuss relocating the dome, and even suggested the National Museum as a potential site, though it was too small.
The demolition of the 20,000-seater Fantasy Dome occurred on March 16, 2024.
According to Dr Agnes Adu, CEO of the Ghana Trade Fair Company Limited, the action was taken after multiple notices were given to Quaynor to vacate the premises for redevelopment, as per their tenancy agreement.
Dr Adu noted that all previous tenants had complied except for the Fantasy Dome.
Quaynor, in an interview with JoyNews, confirmed that his lease had ended, and was in the process of relocating the dome.
He had requested an extension, which was denied, leading him to seek a writ and an injunction from an Accra High Court to halt the demolition.
Despite this, the demolition proceeded, causing significant damage to the structure.
Quaynor described the incident as a major setback, not only for his business but also for the entertainment industry, which relies on venues like the Fantasy Dome.
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.
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