Entertainment
I want to take my gift far to impact lives -Mz.Nana

Ghanaian-US-based gospel musician, Nana Yaa Frimpomah Otchere known in Showbiz circles as Mz.Nana has her resolve to take her God-giving gift of ministry far.
According to her, this is aimed at impacting lives through the word of God.
Mz. Nana made this revelation during a meet-the-press session held at the AH Hotel in Accra.
According to her, to achieve this, she would need the able support of the media, both in Ghana and the US.
Against this backdrop, she appealed to the media for support.
With a two-year stint in the industry, Mz Nana has already produced nine songs, with five already released.
During the event, she shared the inspiring story behind “Oma Ne Nsa So,” a song that encapsulates 15 years of prayer and reflection on a personal issue.
She expressed readiness to collaborate not only with established artistes but also with the youth, highlighting her ability to blend African and American cultures seamlessly.
Born in the vibrant city of Accra, Ghana, Mz Nana discovered her passion for music early on. Growing up in a family with a rich cultural and religious background, she was exposed to the soul-stirring rhythms of gospel music that would later become the cornerstone of her artistic expression.
As a little girl raised by her paternal grandmother, Madam Mercy Akosua Oguabea Plange, of blessed memory, she was never allowed to stay home on Sundays without attending church services.
She always followed her grandmother to the Church of Pentecost, Kpehe branch, where she started singing at Sunday school. At such a tender age, Mz Nana always had a special admiration for gospel music ministers when she saw them on stage at church, ministering at regular Sunday services and regional and national conventions grounds. She, therefore, desired to be a gospel singer one day.
At teenage, Mz Nana left the Church of Pentecost to join Kings Chapel Vine Yard at Madina, and with her passion for singing, she ultimately became a member of the praise and worship team, where she continued to sing and perfected her craft. She sang at the church’s various crusades and outreach programs in and around Accra.
Journey to the United States: Mz Nana’s journey to becoming a prominent gospel artist took an international turn when she married Dr. Francis Otchere and joined her lovely husband in the United States in 2003.
The transition to a new culture and environment deepened her connection to her roots, inspiring her to blend traditional Ghanaian sounds with contemporary gospel music. In the United States, Mz Nana joined her husband’s local Assembly of God’s Church in Silver Spring, Maryland, and became a praise and worship team member.
Musical Influences: Her music is a fusion of her Ghanaian heritage and the diverse musical influences she encountered in the United States. Mz Nana draws inspiration from Ghana’s gospel music legends like Abaapa Christie, Jane & Bennis, Daughters of Glorious Jesus, Tagoe Sisters, Madam Comfort Annor, and contemporary artists like Diana Hamilton and Piesie Esther, creating a unique sound that resonates with audiences across cultural boundaries.
Single Releases: In September of the year 2022, Mz Nana debuted her first gospel single, “Oma Ne Nsa So,” which means “The Mighty Hand of God,” which was released in July 2022 and launched on Sept. 24, 2022. She aimed to inspire and uplift listeners, drawing them closer to their faith. A few months later, Mz Nana again released her second single, “Aseda Ka,” which means “Thanksgiving of praise.”
The two singles caused a sensation in the social media sphere, which garnered widespread acclaim for their uplifting lyrics, soulful melodies, and the infusion of African rhythms. The album’s success marked her as a rising star in Ghana, the United States, and internationally in the gospel music scene. Mz Nana’s song lyrics convey gratitude, praise, and worship to God. Her gospel music often celebrates the goodness of God, expresses thanksgiving, and encourages believers in their faith journey.
In November 2023, Mz Nana again released a hattrick of singles, which she dubbed “PRAISE THE LORD.” It consists of a Praise Medley, Live Worship (Wo Ye Onyame), and Praise the Lord.
Impactful Ministry: Beyond her musical endeavours, Mz Nana is known for her impactful ministry. She actively engages in community outreach programs, using her platform to spread messages of hope, faith, and unity. Her commitment to positively impacting society has endeared her to fans and communities. Mz Nana and her husband, Dr. Otchere, have been instrumental in forming the “ENO BAATANPA” Foundation for needy children and young adults in Asamankese.
They regularly provide financial and logistics support to the founder, Mrs. Madam Rosemond Owusu-Boadi, for the smooth running of the foundation. The foundation supports 85 poor and underprivileged children and young adults to learn dressmaking and tailoring, hair-dressing and salon management, auto mechanics, etc.
Global Recognition: Mz Nana’s music has transcended borders, earning her invitations to perform at significant gospel events and conferences worldwide. Her dynamic stage presence and heartfelt performances have left an indelible mark on audiences, reinforcing her status as a beacon of inspiration in gospel music.
Mz Nana has performed on stage at the following events:
GMA-USA 2023 Nominees Announcements at Springfield, Virginia in the U.S, The 2023 Afro Unity Festival concert held at Alexandra, Virginia, the 2023 Royals Praise concert at Severn Maryland, and the GMA-USA @5 Press Soiree, which was held at SOHO Restaurant, here in Accra.
Awards and Nominations: In 2023, Mz Nana received nominations in two categories from the Ghana Music Awards (GMA–U.S.A) for Gospel Song of the Year and New Artiste of the Year for U.S.-based artists. During the awards night in the Lincoln Theater at Columbus Ohio, Mz Nana’s maiden single “Oma Ne Nsa So” won the Gospel Song of the Year Award for U.S.-based artistes.
She’s filled nominations in several categories in the upcoming 2024 and the 5th year edition of the GMA-U.S.A. nominees announcement event scheduled to be held in New Jersey and is hoping to receive nominations in the selected categories.
Family Life: Mz Nana is a wife and mother of two young adult men, Darwin Amoah Otchere and Darius Baffour Otchere. She is one hundred supported by her husband, Dr. Francis Otchere, who also writes most of her songs.
Entertainment
Afia Ayiwah out with ‘testify’

Media Ecxel Productions artiste, Afia Ayiwah, has released her latest single ‘ testify’ which is already receiving massive air play and doing wonders in the lives of music lovers both locally and international.
The single produced by Ghanaian renowned producer Kaywa, showcases Ayiwah’s powerful vocals and unwavering faith, encouraging listeners to share their testimonies of hope and redemption.
In an interview The Spectator Agoro Afia Ayiwah said her single is a blend of traditional gospel sounds and modern musical elements.
According to her, the single offers an uplifting anthem that resonates with both longtime fans and new listeners.
‘The release of ‘testify’ comes at a time, as many are seeking solace and encouragement amidst life’s challenges’ and also remind listeners that faith is a journey meant to be shared within the community’ she explained.
Afia Ayiwah, known for her soul-stirring melodies and heartfelt lyrics, has been a prominent figure in the gospel music scene for several years.
With a unique ability to connect with her audience, Ayiwah’s songs often celebrate personal experiences of faith, resilience, and the transformative power of God’s love.
‘Testify’ is now available on all major streaming platforms, including Spotify, Boomplay, Apple Music, and YouTube.
By Linda Abrefi Wadie
Entertainment
Womba Drumming and Dance set to tour UK

Womba Africa Drumming and Dance ensemble, a traditional cultural troupe in Ghana, is set to embark on an exciting tour of the UK.
Renowned for their use of traditional instruments to create melodious, original compositions, the troupe never fails to get audiences on their feet with their high-energy performances.
“Womba” means “We are coming” in the local Ga dialect, and true to their name, the troupe makes a powerful impression wherever they go. Their upcoming UK tour, scheduled for September and October 2025, promises an immersive cultural experience centered on drumming and dancing.
From September 18 to 20, the troupe will host a workshop and training programme.
This event will delve into the history and origins of various dance styles, showcase traditional costumes and instruments, include storytelling sessions, and provide hands-on training in dance techniques, among other activities.
The workshop will take place at Lewsey Community Centre Landrace Road Luton LU4 OSW.
In an interview with their manager, Felix Nii Okai Nummello, he expressed their anticipation for the world to know how hard working the group has been over the years.
“A lot of preparation is ongoing, and we are surely going to make Africa proud on this tour”, he said.
“This is a rare opportunity to witness the vibrant rhythms and rich traditions of Ghanaian culture live in the UK. Don’t miss out, mark your calendars and be part of this unforgettable cultural celebration,” he urged patrons.