Entertainment
Nikki Samonas pledges support for refugees in Ghana
Ghanaian actress and media personality, Nikki Samonas has pledged her commitment to raise funds to support refugees in the country.
This follows her announcement as a goodwill ambassador of The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) a UN agency mandated to aid and protect refugees.
Nikki Samonas and Kwame Annom, a culinary chef were unveiled last Friday at Pamona at Osu, Accra.
Speaking to The Spectator at the unveiling, she said from her experience in the refugee camps, she would do everything possible to raise funds for the upkeep of refugees.
Nikki Samonas added that she felt empowered for the recognition and further appealed to individuals and corporate entities to support their fund raising campaigns.
Their journey in supporting the people who have been forced to flee their homes or countries began in 2017 with UNHCR’s LuQuLuQu campaign. In their roles as LuQuLuQu High Level Influencers, they have used their voices to help change the narrative of refugees.
In 2017, Nikki visited Ampain refugee camp in Ghana to learn more about UNHCR’s emergency response work and meet with refugees .
Their appointment comes at a time when UNHCR’s Global Trends Report states that over 79.5 million people worldwide are forcibly displaced.
Ghana currently hosts 13,355 refugees from over 30 different countries including Côte d’Ivoire, Togo, Liberia, Sudan and Cameroon.
By Edem Mensah-Tsotorme
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.
