TWICE MARRIED

Marriage is a good thing or that is what we have been told, therefore like everything good, there should be little or no stress attached.

In the last few weeks, I attended all together six marriage ceremonies. Six? Yes six. Whilst there, one word that resonated in my mind after I had left those places, was “ENGAGEMENT”. I sort to find the meaning of engagement in the context of the subject under review and in Ghana, it means “Traditional Marriage ceremony” albeit the actual definition is “an official agreement to get married”.

In days past, marriage processes or procedure were quite simple, devoid of all the pageantry. It used to be a "colourful" ceremony, depending on where it was being done, of just family and a few friends as witnesses. The prospective families do all the underground fact finding. Both families agree at a meeting and a date is set where the woman is given into marriage if all they sort to find checked out.

However, modernization and a lot of add-ons have morphed this modest yet important all inclusive ceremony into what has been termed “ENGAGEMENT” which as stated earlier is a formal agreement between the man and woman to get married and not a ceremony. At these so called engagements, marriage vows are exchanged in the presence of both families and a priest or pastor as well. What I don’t quite understand is why vows are exchanged AGAIN when the couple go to sign in church as required and recognized by law or in most cases, dress up for a whole day’s activity in the name of wedding. Is it to affirm the love the couple have for each other or they second guess themselves after the initial vows are taken?

Perhaps, as a people who are conscious of tradition and hold it to the highest esteem, I think we must have a rethink about this subject and realign our interest. By any means, any one should marry when they feel like it, but once.   

 

  

 

 

MULA GAD BREAKs GLASS CEILING with "TRIP TO AFRICA"

This needs no mention as it is a fact that Ashaiman has heaps of talent. From skills in soccer, film(acting) to the recording studio. Year on year, the city has births incredible chaps whose accomplishment has become world wide sensation.

In recent times, there is yet another world wide maverick reggae, dancehall and afrobeat artiste who has first-rated his craft to the admiration of the world.

 

With the release of “Trip to Africa” inspired by communication with  friends abroad and produced by shottoh Blinqs, Mula Gad showcases his versatility on the microphone having released other singles such as “Ozimzim”, Pretty Girl, One world etc, he is convinced the world is yet to see his best as his acts have become a standard to compete with.

Known privately as Eric Listowell, he says he draws inspiration from a number of top artiste whose work he identifies with.   

click link to download his songs.

                                            https://fanlink.to/dPAm  

 

THE "DEVIL"- MY BARBER

I have been having my hair cut by Maxwell Mensah for several months if not slightly beyond a year. I must confess, I like his handiwork. He seems to improve on his craft each passing day I have employed his service. From fine tuning my hairline to “yomonizing” my hair to give it a glowing after effect.

However meticulous he is on his job, he does not come across on first sight as a regular young barber. Tatoos, multiple piercing with gold plated earrings with chains and rings to match. A classic representation of what many will describe as “wayward”. To make matters worst, he is nicked-named “DEVIL”, a development many parents have warned and prevented their children from cutting their hair in his barbering salon.

“DEVIL” says, “ I love the controversy around the name, it’s making me popular for my music career.

“I am nursing a serious ambition of becoming a famous dance-hall music artiste in the not too distant future”, he added.   

 

It is common knowledge what role names play in the lives of people. But to “DEVIL” the barber, his choice of name has nothing or less to do with the Devil we read about in the Bible. After all, they say”the devil you know is better than the angel you don’t know.

 

I know my devil. He is a barber and a musician, what about you?

SURVIVING ON STRINGS & BEATS

 

 

The steps to greatness, affluence and influence are usually taken in bold strides, an enterprise not for the faint at heart and fibble in mind. All around, stories of such persons are hailed for the inspiration they carry. The toil, sacrifices, disappointment and most importantly the determination make these stories worthwhile and that of Brakay is no different.

Born Alfred Amoh Danso, Brakay’s music production (BrakayDiDit) prodigy started quite early when he lost his father whilst in University. With the sole objective of pushing the youth to identify themselves (talent) to become independent, spurred his interest to invest his resources, which was barely enough to build a recording studio.  

Relentlessly, Alfred commuted on foot from Bubuashie to Korle-Bu for months to be schooled on music production. Whilst at it, Brakay wrote songs for other young artiste. Something he did with enthusiasm. Inspired to do more, he effortlessly wrote and produced his own songs whilst giving the opportunity to others with similar ambitions.

“I could have given up because my abilities were doubted but I believed strongly in my self that I could do it…” he said with a grin.

BrakayDidit has produced a number of songs. Popular amongst them is the hit by Addi Govnor titled “WO” produced in 2018.

Just last year, BrakayDiDit produced another hit with Aboot, “COME PASS”. Given its wide acceptance by the listening public and scoring high by critics, it got the validation it deserved based on which a remix was done with Kuami Eugene.

Brakay says, he is optimistic about the future as it holds a lot of prospects.  

Ghanaian Artiste Escapes Death

 ***sensitive photos. Viewers are advised. 

A member of the Ghanaian hiplife group(EqualGh of SUS camp) Nana Amoako, otherwise known as Messenger in showbiz escaped death in a fatal motor accident Sunday.

Nana Amoako, who is said to have been returning from a motorbike show at Dansoman Junction, crashed into a broken down stationary vehicle in the middle of the road with no warning sign(s).

 

The Na Scam hitmaker was grateful to have

missed death. Contrary to speculations of drunkeness and being high on drugs, Nana Amoako said laying in hospital that, there is no truth to that.

RICHARD HARRISON SET TO FIGHT NATHAN GORMAN

Ghana's Richard Harrison is set to fight Britain's Nathan Gorman. Nathan, who has fought in seventeen professional bouts in the heavyweight category has won sixteen times. Eleven  of which were  by  technical knockouts and five by unanimous decision plus one loss. It is no doubt Gorman has an impressive record and ring experience. 

Richard, who has said he wishes to fight Anthony Joshua will have to contend and prevail in this fight to join the hall of fame having failed to win over Daniel Dubois. The Ghanaian boxer has solidly registered his presence with a fantastic record of sixteen fights. Fourteen straight wins and two losses. 

The bout, scheduled for September 12 in London at the BT Studios will see the two heavyweight boxers fight for the commonwealth eliminator with Richard Harrison being the first Ghanaian heavyweight boxer racing for that. 

ALEX MARTEY DONATES TOWARDS HOMOWO

The aspiring member of parliament for the Ningo Prampram constituency in the Greater Accra region Mr. Alex Martey has donated some essential items to the chiefs and people of the area towards the celebration of Homowo festival slated for later this month.

 For most of the constituents, the gesture was welcoming and had come at the right time.

 Speaking at a brief ceremony, Hon. Alex Martey reiterated his commitment and that of the Npp government to bringing the much needed development to the constituency, bemoaning the lack of interest from the previous government in developing the area.

 

On their part, the chiefs and people expressed their gratitude whilst saying prayers for him in the upcoming general elections.   

 

     

FIRST LADY ENDORSES HON. ALEX MARTEY

FIRST LADY ENDORSES HON. ALEX MARTEY

 

Her excellency the first lady, Madam Rebecca Akufo-Addo has endorsed Mr. Alex Martey, the New Patriotic Party’s parliamentary aspirant for the Ningo- Prampram area.

Madam Rebecca threw her weight behind Mr. Martey when she paid a working visit to the area Friday, August 21, 2020.

Speaking at a durbar held in her honour where she commissioned a forty shed market, Madam Rebecca Akufo- Addo said, the Akufo-Addo government was committed and remain resolute to serving the people of Ghana and for that matter Ningo-Prampram. Adding that, given the track record of Mr. Martey’s strong work ethics and human relations, She strongly believes He is the 

        

right person to serve the people of Ningo-Prampram. She further urged the chiefs and people of the area to vote massively for Mr. Alexander Martey and Nana Addo Danquah Akuffo- Addo during this years general elections. The area, a stronghold of the opposition NDC since 1992 has seen little or no improvement in development. Mr. Martey assured them of massive infrastructural development when voted as their preferred member of Parliament for Ningo- Prampram.

 

Mr. Martey used the opportunity to cut sod for the construction of a much desired maternity facility at Old Ningo and a six unit classroom block at “Peace Be” in community 25, within the Ningo- Prampram constituency.

 

INSIDE LIFE

Often have we been told of small beginnings. Stories abound of how worldwide top business brands started. The Papa Ye’s KFC’s, McDonalds, Coca-Cola and Burger King had a struggling if not a tough beginning. The stunted thought of growth could easily have broken their backs but they persisted.

“Small things done with great love will change the world”
        - Mother Theresa -

Kenneth & Edmund

  

The story of Kenneth Asante, a student of Pope John Senior high school and seminary and Edmund Ananful, an SHS graduate and a part time worker with Ghana Water is no different yet inspiring. With bold strides, they approach prospective clients. 

Armed with a skill in a female dominated field, a drive and pertinacity to build a good life for themselves, held together with an ambitious desire to become Ghana’s best savoury’s chain, they have started off hawking meat pie and hibiscus cocktail drink-”sobolo”. A ready and healthy choice for many Ghanaians  as it's  benefits are enormous.

Driven by an unbridled passion to succeed, they have thrown shyness and mockery to the gallows.

There are lots of opportunities. when you grab one, run with it. And just like Nike says, “ Just do It”.

THE BROWNS

A fireman at an accident scene

Our elders say “fire is a good servant yet a terrible master”. It comes or pays you a visit unannounced sometimes and leaves a footprint of devastation.  But on certain occasions, it comes bearing gifts. Gifts that make you smile at a bowl of perfectly boiled rice, a bucket of warm water for your baths on cold nights and what have you. Such a good servant.

However, when it ravages properties and destroys our very existence, many would often point accusing fingers at the MEN IN BROWN- The Fire Service. They are vilified and often sentenced without trial in the court of public opinion.

But take a closer not a cursory look at the activities of the fire service in Ghana and you will be filled with nothing less than utmost admiration for them.

In the event of a fire outbreak, regardless of how small, many run for the safety of their lives. Yet these men and women throw caution to the wind and run towards danger at the expense of their lives. Many beautiful lives have been lost, just so others may have it. If this is not bravery, what other word(s) can best describe such acts of selflessness an dedication to duty. Don’t say they are paid. Every life matters.

So, when next you see or hear the siren of the fire appliance bulldoze its way or weave through traffic to a scene of distress, say a prayer for them. 

GREEN GREEN GRASSES

I had not the faintest idea what laughter meant until I sat with them though my Christian name means laughter. These were a group of gentlemen, some I knew fondly, the others by acquaintance at the baby christening of one.

Like the sudden outburst of a broken heart-ed lover, they started laughing. The  kind solicited from deep within. It was raw, uninhibited laughter at a silly joke. I conformed by laughing as well. But I looked stupid, like a school boy who couldn’t answer a simple arithmetic in a class with his crush.

Sooner than later, bottles of cold beer went round for whoever felt the need to satisfy their cravings on a warm Sunday mid-morning. Surprisingly, the carton went back as it came. Untouched. It was quite intriguing as these were not people not to partake in a feast without the crispy, sharp, golden bubbled beer.

In my quest to find answers, I discovered the secret. A pale green aqueous substance was to be held responsible for such cheerful outlook.

For those who had had it several times before, the experience varies. The story changes with the first timers.

“ I felt like someone was riding a bicycle on my back”

“my guy, the way this thing make I chop ‘eeeeerrr’, my wife happy rough” one guy said.

“chale, the first time nu, around 2am, I sneaked into the fridge and ate everything including my daughter’s baby food”… another chipped in.

“ there is never a dull moment when I take it. I could watch GTV all day…everything looks and sounds funny to me…”  commented one guy who barely spoke. 

“I thought I had lost a leg. Meanwhile, it was propped up against a wall. This was insane… he said amid laughter”.

“Hmmm!, I recall my mind saying cake! Cake! Cake!. I had to dash out to buy 10 cedis worth of it. Having finished it, I felt for Fanta. It makes you wanna eat though you feel full. Your taste buds are seriously active…

Whatever the pale green aqueous substance, which was passed from one interested person to the other gleefully, I am sure it has some mystical properties. Anyway, when I am old enough, I would want to try it and “laugh like killer”.

WiTH LOVE FROM ANLOGA JUNCTION

Like a good bottle of wine, he gets better over time. He has created an enviable and incontestable position in the music industry.

Barely a week after releasing the fifteen track album, there has been  countless downloads and many more shares among friends and music lovers as they nod or sing along the Suits and Tie hit maker’s latest album christened Anloga Junction. This album is touted to be the second most streamed album.

One can confidently say this has been one of many proud Ghanaian ingenuity as the album takes off with an all Ewe song ‘Le Gba Gbe’.which to wit means ‘its been bad and its has become better, lets me enjoy my life whilst I still have it’

It takes you through a barrage of soothing tunes which will make your head nod in unison to its carefully crafted pulsating tune having landed perfected on the fifteenth with ‘Strength and Hope’

The star studded album is a cocktail of high-life, mixed with a thick syrup of the dance-hall genre. Stirred lightly with a twist of afro-beat gives music enthusiast nothing but a complete experience characteristic of any beautifully created album set on repeat.

As to what is at Anloga Junction, it will forever remain a mystery to be unraveled by a genius of Livingstone Etse Satakla-Stonebwoy

UNSUNG.

“He who has a why to live can bear almost any how…”

The ilk of Azumah Nelson, Ike Quartey, Joshua Clottey and lately Isaac Dogbe will be readily mentioned when anyone on the streets of Accra is a asked about boxing. These are men who have over the years hoisted high the flag of Ghana in an impressive show of gracefulness and strength in the ring fighting to retain or claim one world title or the other. However, there are many others who may not readily be mentioned.  

One such Ghanaian sportsman stirring the waves in boxing is Richard Nii Lartey Harrison . A quiet, unassuming young man otherwise known as “Chisaano” or "Son of the Eagle".A heavyweight division boxer with an impressive record of sixteen fights, fourteen wins by either a KO (Knock Out) or TKO ( Technical Knock Out) with two loses   .

Having battled it out at the amateur level with many wins, he lost his chance to be called into the national Olympic team-black bombers. Richard Harrison like many Ghanaian youth took to other opportunities to make a living but the nudge to be a fighter became so strong he couldn’t resist but drop all other things to fully concentrate on the sport.

Currently enjoying a quiet life, Richard Harrison Nii Lartey hopes to become a world wide boxing sensation as he currently holds the WBO HEAVYWEIGHT AFRICAN DIVISION CHAMPION.