Entertainment
Ghana Tourism Authority launches Heritage Month
The Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) has launched Heritage Month to project the country’s culture and sensitise Ghanaians to be proud of their cultural heritage.
Heritage Month for March would be expressed through culinary, fashion, arts exhibitions, and promotion of locally made products, among others.
Speaking at the launch on Monday, March 3, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of GTA, Maame Efua Houadjeto, paid tribute to the country’s fore bearers who contributed immensely to preserving the past through their unique ways.
She said that it was because of them that today’s generation could celebrate where they have come from.
According to him, GTA’s domestic marketing campaign, See Ghana, Wear Ghana, Eat Ghana, Feel Ghana, and Experience Ghana, would be activated in various forms.
Against this backdrop, she touched on how the Black Star Experience would be Ghana’s unique tourism brand to impact the creative economy.
She said this would be achieved through carnivals, fashion festivals, concert party competitions, food fairs, film week, theatrical and drama performances, among others.
Outlining the activities for the Heritage Month, the Deputy CEO of GTA, Mr Gilbert Aggrey, aka Abeiku Santana, said all regional officers will go on media platforms across the country to champion the heritage month message.
He noted that the Musicians Union of Ghana (MUSIGA) will also have a role to play in this initiative across the country.
Additionally, he revealed that there would be a ‘Made in Ghana Rave’ at Kwadaso in the Ahanti Region on March 6. He added that Akwaaba Festival would also take place at the National Theatre from March 6-8.
He further revealed that on March 14, the maiden Taste 68 Food fair would take place at the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park.
Director, Diaspora Affairs at the Office of the President, Kofi Okyere-Darko said, he sees it as a laudable call as part of the Black Stars Experience which is aimed at creating an all year round calendar for the sector.
He noted that his outfit in collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs have urged missions abroad to wear Made-in-Ghana clothes for the entire month of March.
Mr.Kofi Okyere Darko charged the media to play at least 70 per cent Ghana music for the entire month.
Presidential Staffer for Black Stars Experience, Rex Omar, on his part, said this year’s Heritage Month is not just a celebration of the past but a call to action for the present and the future.
The Blood Crew, a Ghanaian contemporary gospel music group based in Kumasi, celebrated its 10th anniversary in ministry with a special cake-cutting ceremony during the Grace Concert held at Gracefields Chapel, Havlah Temple, Ahodwo.
The celebration formed part of the group’s annual live recording event, ‘The Blood Effect’, which brought together thousands of worshippers, gospel music lovers, ministers, and invited guests for an unforgettable night of worship and live music recording.
The anniversary cake was officially cut by the Founder and Music Director of the group, David Nana Bonsu, popularly known as Nana Quophi, together with Rev. Simon Ampofo, shortly after the first session of live recordings featuring newly composed songs and selected old compilations.
The ceremony was witnessed by alumni members, current team members, invited gospel artistes, instrumentalists, management, and worshippers who gathered to celebrate the milestone achievement of the ministry.
The occasion marked 10 years of The Blood Crew’s contribution to gospel music ministry, worship, fellowship, evangelism, mentorship, and youth impact through music.
Members of the group used the opportunity to reflect on their journey over the years and expressed gratitude to God for sustaining the ministry and helping them remain impactful.
The event featured ministrations from UK-based Ghanaian gospel artiste Emmanuel Gyamfi, Pastor Edwin Dadson, Team Eternity Ghana, Manuel Tuffour, Joshua Ahenkorah, and Yefter Nkansah.
The group described the anniversary celebration as a moment of thanksgiving, reflection, and renewed commitment to continue impacting lives through gospel music and worship ministry.
Over the years, The Blood Crew’s annual ‘The Blood Effect’ live recording event has grown into a recognized platform for worship, spiritual impact, and gospel music ministry in Kumasi and beyond.
This year’s edition uniquely combined live recordings with the group’s 10th anniversary celebration, making it one of the most memorable editions since the ministry began.
By Spectator Reporter
Contrary to the belief that winning an award elevates an actor to an almost ‘godlike’ status, Ghanaian actor Melvin Dain holds a different view.
According to him, accolades were important, but they do not define the true essence of an actor.
Speaking ahead of the Ghana Movie Awards scheduled for tomorrow, Dain emphasised that awards should be seen as recognition rather than a measure of ultimate worth.
“I don’t think awards define who an actor is; however, I believe they provide recognition and validate an actor’s performances in the industry,” he said.
The actor has been nominated in two categories; Best Actor in a Supporting Role and Discovery Actor of the Year, a milestone he describes as both encouraging and humbling.
“Being recognised at this stage means a lot to me. It tells me that the work I’m putting in is being seen, and that alone is encouraging,” he noted.
Reflecting on his journey, Dain said the nominations have offered him the opportunity to appreciate his growth in the industry.
“It reminds me of where I’m coming from and how far I’ve come. It also gives me more reason to keep pushing, to keep learning and to keep growing as an actor,” he added.
Despite the recognition, the actor remains grounded, acknowledging the stiff competition in both categories.
He described his chances of winning as evenly balanced, given the calibre of nominees.
“Looking at the names on the list, I will say it’s a 50/50 chance. Some of these people are my idols, and just being in the same category with them is a humbling moment for me,” he said.
He added, “the nominations represent more than just a shot at winning; they affirm my rise in the industry and reinforces my commitment to excellence.”
By Linda Abrefi Wadie
