Ghanaian entrepreneur, Afua Asantewaa Aduonum, has become a household name following her Guinness World Records sing-a-thon attempt.

But one thing a lot of people are probably not privy to is her English name ‘Cynthia’.

Giving further details about her private life and her upbringing on Adom TV’s M’ashyase3, Asantewaa revealed her parents named her Cynthia.

However, the desire to become a journalist and carve a niche with a local name made the social media sensation ditch her English name.

She recounted she didn’t even bother to run her decision by her parents, adding she went straight to her teacher to request an omission of the name from school documents.

“My teacher who was surprised asked if I had informed my parents and I said no, I will do that when I get home. So I didn’t even register for BECE with Cynthia and my parents were fine with it,” she narrated to Afia Amankwa Tamakloe.

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Listen to Asantewaa in the video above:

They told Joy FM via mail that Afua could not make the mark because she broke some of their rules. 

“Afua Asantewaa’s singathon attempt was not successful due to guidelines around rest break timings not being met. These rules are standard across all of our ‘longest marathon’ records,” PR Executive for the Guinness World Records, Alina Polianskaya replied to a mail by Joy FM entertainment journalist Kwame Dadzie. 

On Friday, February 23, 2024, the Guinness World Records announced that Ghana’s Afua Asantewaa failed to break the longest singing marathon she attempted in December 2023.

The GWR said this in a statement on X (formerly Twitter) adding that despite the setback they hope she makes another attempt.

“We’ve seen how inspirational it has been for her fans…We wish Afua the best of luck with any future record attempts,” they noted.

They added that the money Afua Asantewaa’s team paid for a priority review has been refunded.

Afua Asantewaa in December 2023 took on the challenge to beat the existing record which stands at 105 hours set in 2012.

Asantewaa endured a five-day singing marathon which began at midnight on Sunday, December 24, 2023, and ended at 7:00 am on December 29, 2023.

At the time she ended her record attempt on Friday morning, the young woman had sung for five days, six hours and 55 minutes.

In response to the announcement of her disqualification, Afua wrote on social media that she received the news of the outcome of her sing-a-thon attempt just moments before hosting a gala dinner and the launch of the Lebanese Scholarship Alumni Network, attended by President Nana Akufo-Addo.

She stated, “I would announce my next line of action in a few days. Thank you all for your love and support.”

In the meantime, she has been appointed Tourism Ambassador by the Ghana Tourism Authority. 

In a heartfelt post, Afua acknowledged Merqury’s pivotal role, highlighting his enthusiastic support.

Merqury Quaye’s role in the historic singathon was occasioned by a call from Ghanaian Radio Presenter Ola Michael on Peace FM where Merqury willingly declared to support the cause.

Merqury Quaye, who is famously referenced as the father of all DJs, identified and assembled other top Ghanaian DJs to keep the music on rotation throughout the record attempt. DJ Ikon, DJ Sticker, Mr Shark, DJ Fantastic, DJ Legend, DJ Nesto, DJ Mark, and DJ Sleek were the notable DJs who played on rotation.

Merqury showed unwavering support by actively participating in rehearsals, song arrangements, and offering moral encouragement to Asantewaa during her lowest moments. The followers of the record-breaking attempt frequently requested Merqury’s presence at the scene to uplift and motivate Asantewaa.

Merqury Quaye’s impact in the Ghanaian music industry cannot be overstated. As as the founder of Africa’s Biggest DJ Event, the Guinness Ghana DJ Awards, he has committed himself to unearthing, educating, empowering and rewarding DJs across the country and beyond.

Throughout the record-breaking event held from December 24 to December 29, 2023, in Akwaaba Village, Accra, Merqury’s infectious energy resonated, keeping spirits high among the thousands in attendance and millions who watched on live TV and via social media. Netizens flooded social media platforms, including X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and Facebook, to applaud Merqury’s outstanding contribution.

Merqury’s great support did not only attract admiration from fans but also notable figures, such as Gloria Sarfo, Abeiku Santana and journalist Oheneyere Gifty Anti, who shared her appreciation for Merqury’s impact. She remarked, “In all thy getting, get a Merqury Quaye. Well done, Mr. Quaye! You have set your own record and made your own impact.”

Another netizen with the handle @DrMummie posted this on X “ He did all he could to make @efiadahemaa nail it while the cheering up was ongoing outside, he stepped in on behalf of every Ghanaian to make sure she overcomes and not give up at that crucial stage. God bless you, Merq @merquryquaye”.

Reacting to Afua’s post on Instagram, one user said “God bless them (all DJs) especially Merqury Quaye, I remember him giving you sigh to sing.”

Another user reacting on Facebook said “My favorite was DJ Merqury. Eii the hype was massive. I love him so much.

A Facebook user with the name Alimatu Amissah posted “I did not know DJ Merqury but I loved him during the event. His support was extraordinary.”

Afua’s singathon, lasting an impressive 126 hours and 52 minutes, attracted diverse Ghanaians and prominent personalities, including Vice President Dr. Bawumia, Sarkodie, Shatta Wale, Stonebwoy, Berla Mundi, Nana Ama McBrown, and more

See post below:

The Guinness World Record longest singing marathon (Singathon) attempt breaker was among high profile dignitaries, including the Second Lady, Samira Bawumia who were honored at the prestigious ceremony at Bonwire, the home of kente in the Ashanti Region.

Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) facilitators of the phase one of the newly- constructed edifice handed the ‘Singathoner’ a beautifully designed Kente (Wabobra) at the well-patronized ceremony.

In a post- event interview, she said “This is a great honor, l must say a very big thank you to GTA and the good people of this land and Ghana as a whole for the recognition. I will do my best to promote tourism to the highest level.”

Kente refers to a Ghanaian textile, made of handwoven cloth, strips of silk and cotton.

Historically the fabric was worn in a toga-like fashion by royalty among the Ewe and Akan.

According to Ashanti oral tradition, it originated from Bonwire in the Ashanti region of Ghana.

In modern day Ghana, the wearing of kente cloth has become widespread to commemorate special occasions, with highly sought kente brands led by master weavers in demand.

Kente is also worn in parts of Togo and Ivory Coast by the Ewes and Akans there.

Asantewaa’s team submitted the video evidence to Guinness World Records last Saturday for review and confirmation.

She attempted a five-day singing marathon that begun at midnight on Sunday, December 24, 2023, to surpass the former record of 105 hours record set by an Indian artiste Sunil Waghmare in 2012. She ended at 7:00am on Friday, December 29, 2023.

Her event attracted a lot of celebrities and public figures including the Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, Alan Kyeremanten, Stonebwoy, Shatta Wale, Sarkodie, Adina, Sista Afia, Wendy Shay, among others. 

Read also:

• Afua Asantewaa opens up on high and low moments during sing-a-thon

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Afua on Friday, 29th December ended her five-day attempt to beat the current Guinness World of the longest singing marathon by an individual. 

“Congratulations to the incredibly talented Afua Asantewaa O Aduonum on achieving a phenomenal feat!” he said in an X post.

Alan also highlighted Afua’s determination to breaking the record and says it is inspiring to all Ghanaians. 

“Your journey, filled with courage and determination, is an inspiration to us all. Ghana celebrates your success and your contribution to elevating our rich musical heritage on the global stage.”

See post below:

Many public figures and personalities including the Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, Alan Kyeremanten, Sarkodie, Stonebwoy, Berla Mundi and several others visited the Akwaaba Village to cheer Asantewaa up during her sing-a-thon.

Afua Asantewaa began her journey to beat the current record of 105 hours on Sunday, 24 December midnight and concluded at 7:00 am on December 29 with 126 hours, 52 minutes.

Afua Asantewaa in an X post expressed gratitude and appreciated the efforts of every Ghanaian who motivated her.

“We broke a record and set a new one. It was your love, dedication, motivation and prayers that gave me the strength to get on my feet every time and keep going for this long. It wouldn’t have been possible without you! Thank you.” she posted.

See post below:

THIS IS WHERE I END MY JOURNEY! 126 HOURS, 52MINS. WE BROKE A RECORD AND SET A NEW ONE. IT WAS YOUR LOVE, DEDICATION, MOTIVATION AND PRAYERS THAT GAVE ME THE STRENGTH TO GET ON MY FEET EVERYTIME AND KEEP GOING FOR THIS LONG. IT WOULDN’T HAVE BEEN POSSIBLE WITHOUT YOU! THANK YOU?? pic.twitter.com/ns5lJY6Lbp

— AFUA ASANTEWAA ?? (@Afua_asantewaa_) December 29, 2023

She said Afua’s determination and resilience on her world record attempt is truly inspiring.

In a post on her official Instagram page, the Second Lady said “Once again, the excellence of the Ghanaian woman has been beautifully displayed”.

She also admired the amount of support Ghanaians showed Afua throughout her journey.

“The overwhelming show of support and display of patriotism from Ghanaians is impressive and a source of great pride,” she said.

Afua Asantewaa has concluded her Guinness World Record attempt to break the record for the longest individual singing marathon on 29th December, 2023.

See post below:

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Samira Bawumia (@sbawumia)

The presidential Aspirant in an X post shared a photo of Afua adding that he believes she would make Ghana proud.

“Wishing you the very best of luck in the #AfuaAsantewaasingathon! The Ghanaian community stands firmly behind you, and we believe in your ability to make us proud,” he said.

Alan Kyerematen joins the long list of public figures to show support for Afua, some of whom have visited the venue to cheer her on.

She kicked off her singing at midnight on Sunday, December 24th and at the time of this report has done two days and 12 hours.

See post below:

Wishing you the very best of luck in the #AfuaAsantewaasingathon!

The Ghanaian community stands firmly behind you, and we believe in your ability to make us proud. pic.twitter.com/yvuJL2ZGYb

— Alan John Kyerematen (@AlanKyerematen) December 26, 2023

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The Vice President in a post urged Afua to strive harder stating that, he is confident she would break the attempt.

“Wishing Afua Asantewaa O Aduonum all the best as she takes on the challenge of breaking the singathon record set by Indian singer Sunil Waghmare.

“Your passion and talent shine brightly, and I’m confident you’ll definitely make history. Keep singing your heart out! We are with you,” he said.

Afua Asantewaa kicked off her world record attempt at midnight on Sunday to beat the longest singing marathon by an individual.

She will be singing for nearly five days in an attempt to break the 105-hour record held by an Indian.

See post below:

Read also:

• Afua Asantewaa begins Sing-A-Thon

• GTA partners Afua Asantewaa on Guinness World Record attempt

With this announcement, Joy Prime will provide uninterrupted streaming across social media as well as unparalleled TV coverage for the Sing-A-Thon attempt.

This partnership brings a unique blend of entertainment and the best of media coverage to the much-awaited musical extravaganza.

Afua Asantewaa is expected to break the longest singing marathon by an individual, which lasted 105 hours. She is expected to beat the record in a nearly five-day event taking place from December 24th to December 27th, 2023.

She will be singing only Ghanaian songs which she says is a deliberate attempt to promote Ghanaian music to the world.

The collaboration with Joy Prime is expected to elevate the marathon’s visibility and offer an immersive experience to audiences across the world.

Joy Prime, known for its commitment to delivering quality entertainment content, will play a pivotal role in capturing and broadcasting the electrifying moments of the Sing-A-Thon. With a reputation for bringing exclusive and engaging content to its viewers, Joy Prime is poised to enhance the event’s reach and impact.

The Multimedia Group’s extensive reach and expertise in delivering top-notch entertainment align perfectly with the spirit of the Sing-A-Thon.

Afua on Wednesday’s edition of Joy Prime’s morning show was drawn to tears as she spoke passionately about Ebony’s musical prowess and highlighted how the late musician has had a huge impact on her.

“I would have loved Ebony to be there with me in the booth. Her passion for music and her stagecraft and I could easily resonate with her, I used to tell my husband anytime she was performing that I could do exactly what she was doing, she made music easier for me, you could tell that she had a free spirit regardless of anything she was going through” she said.

“I am her number one fan if there is something like zero then I am. All I will say is that wherever she is she made her impact that I don’t think anybody can fill in her shoes. She has touched a soul and we say thank you” Afua added.

Watch video below:

Afua Asantewa sheds tears declaring her deep love for Ebony#AdomShowbiz

Twe Twe Ursula Owusu Sarkodie Christian BBL Harmattan First Lady Erik Ten Hag Dr Bawumia #fcklive pic.twitter.com/t86uE0u7Rb

— Adom TV (@adom_tv) December 13, 2023

Afua, a broadcast journalist and Women Empowerment Advocate, revealed that she has received approval from the global record company to attempt this feat.

Her goal is to set a new record, with a minimum duration of 117 hours and a maximum of 120 hours.

The current record is held by Sunil Waghmare from India, who sang for an impressive 105 hours from March 3rd to 7th, 2012.

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The expected high-profile forthcoming event is scheduled for Cote d’Ivoire, Abidjan on March 10.

This will be the maiden edition of the event that aims at rewarding women who are touching lives with their projects in various communities on the continent.

“We are on course, we have an advance team- comprising Fredrick Ofosu, Isaac Amponsah, Eugene Ofori, Yusuf Jeili, Christian Asante, Felicity Sampah Avika and my good self on the grounds preparing feverishly for the event,” the group President, Afua Asantewaa. O Aduonum, said.

The ASKOk boss, who doubles as CEO of Ghana Outstanding Women Awards (GOWA), added ”it’s been very challenging, but it is surmountable, we have corporate organizations like Jamila Home, Air Cote d’Ivoire, Marriott Hotel and some few individuals rallying behind us by way of sponsorship. We hope to deliver a high-grade event, as we have done in Ghana with GOWA for five years and counting.”

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Below is the full list of nominees and the various categories:

 African Outstanding Woman Advocate

1. Dr. Lola Odeyale Ayo – Fashida (Nigeria)

2. Lina Beneb (Ghana)

3. Nadine Dabe (Coté D’ivoire)

4. Dr. Hannahlisa Tetteh (Ghana)

5.Jaha Marie Dukureh (Gambia)

6. Gyimaah Larbi Stella (Ghana)

Africa Outstanding Woman Beauty Queen

1. Beauty Etsanyi Tukura (Nigeria)

2. Audrey Monkam (Cameroon)

3. Sarfoa Asamoah (Ghana)

4. Olivia Yace (Coté D’ivoire)

5. Diana Adimba (Namibia)

Africa Outstanding Woman In Tech And Engineering

1. Kemi.Ogunkoya (Nigeria)

2. Achidi Judith (Cameroon)

3. Patricia Zoundi Yao (Coté D’ivoire)

4. Regina Honu (Ghana)

5. Adora Hack (Nigeria)Africa

Outstanding Woman Young Entrepreneur

1. Maryam Aramide Atolagbe (Nigerian)

2. Joyce Konadu Idun (Ghana)

3. Teta Isibo (Rwanda)4. Joycelyn Ntim – Donkor (Ghana)

4. Zalika Barro (Coté D’ivoire)5. Louisa Akosua Agyeman Ababio (Ghana)

Africa Outstanding Woman In Health

1. Shamim Nabuuma Kaliisa (Uganda)

2. Nana Adwoa Konadu Dsane (Ghana)

3. Abimbola Adebakin (Nigeria)

4. Dr. Emy Oduro (Ghana)

5. Dr. Gladys Kdema- Zikusoka (Uganda)

Africa Outstanding Woman In Ngo

1. Annetta Paps-King (Gambia)

2. Hananatu Tunis (Liberia)

3. Afi Anthonio (Ghana)

4. Noella Coursaris Musunka (Congo)

5. Joyce Konadu Idun (Ghana)

6. Efeirele Foundation (Nigeria)

7. Nana Adwoa Enyinfuaa Iii (Ghana)

Africa Outstanding Woman In Innovation And Invention.

1. Odeh Faith (Nigeria)

2. Mylene Amon (Coté D’ivoire)

3. Aba Wils (Ghana)

4. Charlette Desirée N’guessan (Coté D’ivoire)

5. Regina Honu (Ghana)

Africa Outstanding Woman In Agri-Business

1. Meg Obasi (Nigeria)

2. Dicko Sy (Senegal)

3. Yaa Preprah Amekudzi (Ghana)

4. Rahmah Aderinoye (Nigeria)

5. Nana Adjoa Sifa (Ghana)

Africa outstanding Woman Fashion Designer

1. Melody Asherman (Liberia)

2. Nike Ogunlesi (Nigeria)

3. Natalia Dzidulali (Ghana)

4. Mirian Christopher Nkiru (Nigeria)

5. Irene Sewaholic (Nigeria)

Africa Outstanding Woman Entrepreneur

1. Naomi Oziegbe (Nigeria)

2. Funke Bucknor – Obruthe (Nigeria)

3. Patricia Zoundi (Coté Divoire)

4. Sefera Kodjo (Coté D’ivoire)

5. Ntsiti Biyela (South Africa )

Africa Outstanding Woman In Sports (Technical)

1. Grace H. Weah (Liberia)

2. Salima Rhadia Amukansanga (Rwanda)

3. Sally Mae Hassona (Egypt)

4. Mercy Tagoe Quarcoo (Ghana)

5. Gifty Oware-Mensah

Africa Outstanding Woman In Media

1. Zoneziwoh Mbondgulo-Wondieh (Cameroon)

2. Portia Gabor (Ghana)

3. Joy Doreen Biira (Uganda)

4. Anibe Idajili (Nigeria)

5. Natalie Fort (Ghana)

Africa Outstanding Woman Model

1.Bettinah Tianah (Uganda)

2. Halima Aden (Kenya)

3. Zabelo Hlabisa (South Africa)

4. Allysyn Audu (Nigeria)

5. Beauty Tukura (Nigeria)

6. Valentina Nartey (Ghana)Africa

Outstanding Woman In Mining

1. Nana Jukwa Someah=Kwaw (Ghana)

2. Angela List (Ghana)

3 Joana Gyan Cudjoe (Ghana)

Africa Outstanding Woman In Film

1. Osas Ighodaro (Nigeria)

2. Yvonne Nelson (Ghana)

3. Chizzy Alichi-Mbah (Nigeria)

4. Nomzamo Mbatha (South Africa)

5. Kadhy Toure (Coté D’ivoire)

6. Nana Ama Mcbrown (Ghana)Africa

Outstanding Woman In Music

1. Alyn Sano (Rwanda)

2. Bragga (South Africa)

3. Wiyaala (Ghana)

4. Natasha Beckley (Sierra Leone)

5. Ayra Star (Nigeria)

6. Josey (Coté D’ivoire)

Africa Outstanding Women In Education

1. Dr Palesa Natasha Mothapo (South Africa)

2. Clara Puni Nyamesem (Ghana)

3. Ivy Muthoni (Rwanda)

4. Alice Frimpong Sarkodie (Ghana)

Africa Outstanding Women Network

1. Power Women Network (Nigeria)

2. Tell It Moms (Ghana)

3. Nurses On The Move (Diaspora)

4. Moroccan Women And Technology In Focus (Morocco)

5. Women In Tech Benin (Benin)Africa

Outstanding Woman In Politics

1. Hon. Josephine W. A Davies (Liberia)

2. Hon. Kandia Camara (Coté D’ivoire)

3. Hon. Namyanja Rose (Uganda)

4. Hon. Hajia Lariba (Ghana)

5. Hon. Rosemary Mbabzi (Rwanda)

6. Hon. Tina Gifty Naa Ayeley Mensah (Ghana