Entertainment
VGMA Honors Titans at the National Music Summit 2023
The VGMA (Vodafone Ghana Music Awards) recently honored two exceptional individuals, Elder SK Ampiah and Francis Kwakye, with the prestigious Titan Award at the National Music Summit 2023.
This award is a testament to their immense contributions to the development and growth of the music industry in Ghana.
Both Elder SK Ampiah and Francis Kwakye have dedicated their lives to elevating the music industry and their efforts have not gone unnoticed.
The event happened at La Palm Beach Hotel on 21st June 2023, in commemoration of World Music Day.
Elder SK Ampiah has played a pivotal role in the gospel music industry.
As a writer, instrumentalist and singer, his music compositions have been the true vehicles for praise and worship over decades.
He’s composed over 200 songs over 5 decades, including Onyame Tumfo (God Almighty), Onyame yɛ Nyame Kɛse (God is a great God), Yesu ne wu (The death of Jesus), Me twer ɔbotan bi (I lean on a particular rock), Mmo Yesu (Well done, Jesus).
It is common knowledge that his songs are performed in almost every Christian gathering in Ghana as praise and worship.
Similarly, Francis Kwakye has made significant contributions to the music industry through his relentless efforts since 1969.
For 54 years his dedication, commitment and selflessness to sound engineering in the Ghana music industry has known no bounds, working with virtually all legends and A-lists artistes in Ghana, and providing services for entertainment shows across the nation and internationally.
Via self-founded company, Rythms Africa, he’s extended his services to over 1000 events and programs.
The VGMA Titan Award serves as an inspiration to others in the industry, encouraging them to strive for excellence and make a positive impact. It also highlights the importance of recognizing and honoring individuals who have dedicated their lives to the betterment of the music industry.
Elder SK Ampiah and Francis Kwakye’s contributions will continue to inspire future generations of musicians, producers, and industry professionals to work towards the development and growth of the music industry in Ghana.
It is through their vision, passion, and determination that the music industry in Ghana continues to thrive.
The Titan Award is a fitting tribute to their exceptional achievements and the legacy they leave behind.
Mr. Kwakye’s presentation was heartily presented by the legendary singer and Acting President of MUSIGA, Bessa Simons, who could not hold back his personal tribute in the process.
Elder SK Ampiah, who was represented by his son, had is plaque presented by legendary singer and former President of MUSIGA Diana Hopson.
With excitement that could not be hidden, she did not only give her personal tribute in words, she brought Elder SK Ampiah’s songs to life by singing them live.
The event was hosted by Andy Dosty with performances from Prince Hakeem, Indigenous Band and Nii Tete Tetteh & the Tendaan Muzik.
Veteran Ghanaian actor, Fred Amugi, has been cast in the upcoming Pan-African television series, Kismet, where he will play the role of Chief Ademola, a wealthy and influential Yoruba patriarch.
The series, set for production in Abuja and other parts of Nigeria, brings together a diverse cast ensemble from Ghana, Nigeria, Cote d’Ivoire, South Africa, Cameroon, Kenya, and the United States.
A statement copied to the GNA in Accra said “It forms part of a broader effort to strengthen collaboration within Africa’s creative industry while positioning African stories for global audiences.”
Speaking on his involvement, Fred Nii Amugi, whose acting career spans more than four decades, described the role as a meaningful milestone.
“It is a proud moment for me at this stage of my career to be part of a Pan-African series,” he said.
“Playing a Yoruba character as a Ghanaian reflects something deeper about who we are as Africans. It reminds us that we are one people, connected beyond borders,” he indicated.
He added that his preparation for the role went beyond performance.
“As a Ghanaian of Ga heritage, I am taking time to study the historical and cultural links between the Ga and Yoruba people.
“I am learning about these connections so I can represent the character with truth and respect.”
“It is important that the world sees the shared identity that exists across our continent,” he noted.
Kismet is being developed as a high-quality thriller series with a Pan-African perspective, drawing talent from across the continent and the diaspora.
According to Nana Dwomoh-Doyen Benjamin, President of the African Chamber of Content Producers and production advisor for the project, the series represents the united image of Africa that is capable of contributing to the global creative economy.
“As part of building a Pan-African creative economy, Kismet is a call for Africans to come together and tell our stories as one people.
“We are also aligning this effort with the opportunities presented by the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) to create a strong continental market for African content,” he underlined.
The producer of the series, Paul Joegad, emphasised the global ambition behind the project.
Based in the United States, Joegad noted that the production was designed to meet international standards while maintaining authentic African storytelling.
“We are leveraging diaspora networks and global experience to create a series that resonates across cultures,” he said.
“Our goal is to produce content that can stand on international platforms through quality and strong storytelling.”
He added that assembling the right team had been central to the project’s vision. Among those involved is Mawuko Kuadzi, a Casting Society of America (CSA) member and the first African to win an Artios Award in its 40-year history.
The producers say the series seeks to position Africa as a major player in global content, fostering international Pan-African partnerships. –GNA
The management of Prophet Joseph Atarah Ministries (PJAM) has announced the 2026 edition of the highly anticipated annual gospel concert, Atarah Praise.
This edition, under the theme: ‘Dalet,’ is scheduled for 4pm, Sunday, May 24, at the Bayview Village.
Patrons will enjoy an atmosphere charged with powerful worship, prophetic ministration, and spiritual renewal.
Against this backdrop, Prophet Joseph Atarah will team up with some of Ghana’s finest gospel ministers, including Piesie Esther, Kofi Owusu Peprah, Obaapa Christy, and Siisi Baidoo.
Over the years, Atarah Praise has evolved into one of Ghana’s most impactful worship gatherings, attracting thousands of believers seeking a profound encounter through music, prayer, and thanksgiving.
The 2026 edition is positioned as a divine platform for renewal, restoration, and spiritual awakening.
Patrons are encouraged to arrive early to secure convenient seats and be there with the heart of the worship.
By Edem Mensah-Tsotorme
