Speaking at the ceremony on Saturday, March 7, the High Commissioner described the initiative as a major milestone in Ghana’s efforts to expand trade, increase commercial visibility, and deepen strategic partnerships with UK businesses.

“It is a great honour to welcome you all to the Ghana High Commission UK today as we gather for the commissioning of the Export Trade House initiative,” she said. “Today marks more than the opening of a physical space; it represents our collective ambition to deepen trade relations, support Ghanaian exporters, and create new pathways for investment and innovation.”

Mrs. Benson explained that the Export Trade House will serve as a hub for showcasing Ghanaian products in the UK and promoting collaboration between Ghanaian and British businesses. The initiative is particularly focused on supporting small and medium-sized enterprises and encouraging value-added exports.

“We reaffirm our belief that economic diplomacy is pivotal in shaping Ghana’s future and unlocking prosperity for our people,” she added, expressing gratitude to partners including the Ghana Export Promotion Authority, Ghana Export-Import Bank, and members of the Ghanaian diaspora for their support of the project.

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Held at the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development headquarters, the high-level conference highlighted Ghana and the UK’s shared commitment to sustainable development, inclusive growth, and economic resilience across the continent. Ghana’s role as co-host signals renewed international confidence in the country’s economic turnaround and reform efforts.

Senior global financial leaders attended the event, including Ludovic Ngatsé, Chairperson of the Boards of Governors of the African Development Bank, and the Presidents of the Islamic Development Bank Group, the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa, and the OPEC Fund for International Development.

Speaking at the conference, Ghana’s Deputy Minister of Finance, Hon. Thomas Nyarko Ampem MP, emphasized the country’s dedication to Africa’s development agenda:
“Ghana is proud to have co-hosted this important conference and to champion Africa’s voice in shaping development priorities. Earlier this year, Ghana joined four other countries in pledging US$16 million to the ADF—the first time all five countries in our constituency contributed. This demonstrates our commitment to reforms and partnerships that deliver tangible results for our people.”

UK Minister for Development, Jenny Chapman, expressed the UK’s pleasure in co-hosting the event alongside Ghana, underscoring the long-standing partnership with the African Development Bank and the shared goal of sustainable, inclusive growth. She noted that the UK’s evolving role in Africa—shifting from donor to investor—supports countries pursuing reforms to grow their economies and reduce dependence on aid.

In May 2025, Ghana pledged US$5 million to the African Development Fund alongside The Gambia, Liberia, Sierra Leone, and Sudan, marking a historic increase in African participation. The countries’ commitments reflect fiscal and governance reforms aligned with the Bank’s emphasis on performance and co-financing.

ADF-supported projects in Ghana have targeted women-led micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises and expanded access to energy through mini-grid solutions, reinforcing inclusive growth and energy security.

The ADF-17 replenishment is expected to deepen African ownership of the continent’s development agenda. Ghana’s co-hosting also aligns with President John Dramani Mahama’s Reset Agenda, positioning Accra as a hub for global development dialogue and advocating for fairer, country-led development models and global financial reforms.

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Speaking at the high-level meeting, he described the Fund as a critical financing instrument for reducing vulnerability and accelerating development across Africa.

“The African Development Fund remains a strategic instrument of the Bank Group to reduce vulnerability on the continent,” Mr. Amprem said, urging donors and member countries to “do more” to ensure the Fund is adequately resourced to meet Africa’s growing development needs.

He emphasised that concessional financing remains vital for countries facing fiscal constraints and limited access to international capital markets.

The London meeting has been marked by an unprecedented surge in commitments from African countries. The President of the African Development Bank Group, Sidi Ould Tah, noted a more than threefold increase in the number and volume of African contributions.

“They send a clear signal: Africa is not only a beneficiary of the ADF; it is a co-investor in its own future,” Dr. Ould Tah said, describing the development as unprecedented.

Participating in his first ADF replenishment cycle as President of the Bank Group, Dr. Ould Tah highlighted the Fund’s investment value, noting its ability to mobilise additional resources.

“This replenishment is not about aid. It is about investment with measurable returns. Each dollar invested in the African Development Fund unlocks more than $2.50 in co-financing and private capital,” he stated, adding that ADF-17 aligns with his “Four Cardinal Points” agenda on access to capital, financial sovereignty, demographic opportunity, and resilient infrastructure.

The meeting, co-hosted by the United Kingdom and Ghana at the headquarters of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), also drew strong backing from key partners. UK Minister of State for International Development, Baroness Jenny Chapman, pledged her country’s continued support, while the President of the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa (BADEA), Abdullah Almusalbeeh, announced plans to commence co-financing cooperation with the ADF.

Established in 1972, the African Development Fund finances projects in infrastructure, agriculture, energy, water, health, and education through three-year replenishment cycles.

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Since its debut on 11th July 2008, the show has been a trailblazer in empowering women, addressing taboo topics, and highlighting the untold stories of women, girls, and children.

Reflecting on the journey, Gifty Anti described it as one marked by dedication, resilience, and God’s grace—“17 years of scars and medals for the sake of womanhood and humanity.”

The milestone will be commemorated with an anniversary chat-and-dine event in London today.

“Cheers to many more years to come, God willing,” Gifty Anti shared in an emotional post, thanking her supporters and celebrating the show’s nearly two decades of impact.

Read her statement below:

And the Day is here!!

Friday, 11th July 2008 to Friday, 11th July 2025!

17 years of dedication, commitment, focus, strength, resilience and an audacity to create a platform (a TV programme):

1. Empower Women Holistically
2. Breaking the myth and daring to discuss hitherto taboo topics
3. Projecting and capturing the untold stories of Women, girls and children.

17 YEARS OF THE STANDPOINT, now TSP WITH GIFTY ANTI

17 YEARS OF GOD’S GRACE AND FAITHFULNESS

17 YEARS OF GOD STAYING IN THE STORY!

17 years of defying all odds, smiling at storms, holding my head high and still pushing the gender agenda!! Regardless!!

17 years of IMPACTING LIVES!!!

17 years of SCARS AND MEDALS for the sake of womanhood and humanity.

Cheers to the many years to come, God willing!!

I AM GIFTY ANTI, and for the past 17 years, I have independently produced and hosted THE STANDPOINT, now TSP with Gifty Anti.

Help me THANK GOD

#proudmoment

Source: AdomOnline

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The 14-year-old boy, who cannot be identified, was taken from London to Ghana in March 2024 after being told a relative was ill.

In fact, his parents wanted to get him out of London as they feared he was being drawn into criminal activity.

Unhappy and homesick in Ghana, the boy found lawyers and brought a case against his parents to the High Court in London, which ruled against him in February. On Thursday, he won a Court of Appeal bid, so the case will be reheard.

The most senior judge in the Family Division, Sir Andrew McFarlane, said there had been confusion in the previous decision.

“We have become more and more concerned as to the exercise the judge undertook,” he added.

“For those reasons – we are agreed remittal should be allowed.”

He urged the family to find a solution through constructive dialogue.

At the hearing, the boy’s barrister, Deirdre Fottrell KC, said he is “desperate” to return to the UK.

“He is culturally displaced and alienated,” she said.

“He considers himself abandoned by his family. He feels he is a British boy, a London boy.”

The boy remains in Ghana and has been attending a day school there.

His solicitor, James Netto, described the appeal ruling as a “hugely significant” decision that would “resonate across international family law.”

He said: “We are very pleased indeed that the Court of Appeal has allowed our client’s appeal, and has recognised the critical importance of listening to and assessing the voices of young people at the heart of legal proceedings that profoundly affect their lives.”

The parents’ barrister, Rebecca Foulkes, said that staying in Ghana was the “least harmful” option for the boy.

“The parents found themselves in a wholly invidious decision when they made the decision they made,” she said.

“Ghana provided a safe haven, separate from those who exposed him to risk.

“The least harmful option is for him to remain in Ghana.”

At the heart of the case is the tension between conflicting legal entitlements – the parents’ responsibility for their child, and the child’s own rights to make decisions about what happens to them.

The High Court had ruled the parents could send the boy to Ghana. But the Court of Appeal found that judge had not taken sufficient account of the boy’s own best interests and welfare, given he had recognised the boy was mature enough to make certain decisions for himself.

The boy previously told the court that he felt like he was “living in hell”.

He said he was “mocked” at the school in Ghana and “could also barely understand what was going on”.

During the previous judgment, High Court judge Mr Justice Hayden said the parents’ wish for their son to move to Ghana was “driven by their deep, obvious and unconditional love”.

He found that the boy, who had lived in the UK since birth, was at risk of suffering greater harm by returning to London.

He said that the boy’s parents believe “and in my judgement with reason” that their son has “at very least peripheral involvement with gang culture and has exhibited an unhealthy interest in knives”.

Sir Andrew said the case will now be reheard by a different judge, with the next hearing planned to take place in the next few weeks.

A full decision will be given in writing at a later date.

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The highly anticipated event, scheduled for June 14, 2025, will take place at the Dominion Centre, located at 9 The Broadway High Road, Wood Green, London N22 6DS. It marks Amakye Dede’s remarkable 50-year milestone in the Ghanaian music industry.

Organised by the legendary musician and his management team, the concert is designed to honour his outstanding contribution to highlife music and show appreciation to his dedicated fans.

The celebration promises an electrifying atmosphere as it brings together a stellar lineup of celebrated Ghanaian highlife artists, including Nana Ernest Acheampong, KK Fosu, Lee Dodou, KiDi, and Ampofo Adjei himself. More performers are expected to be announced in the coming weeks.

Fans can look forward to a night filled with nostalgia, dancing, and timeless melodies as Amakye Dede performs some of his most beloved hits, such as Brebrebe Yi, Mensuro, Mabre, Broken Promises, Nsuo Amuna, Sokoo Na Mmaa Pe, Dabi Dabi, Okyena Sesei, and Odo Nfonii.

Beyond the music, the event aims to bring together Ghanaian communities in the UK for an evening of unity, culture, and celebration of a musical legacy that has influenced generations.

The organisers have promised an unforgettable experience for all highlife music lovers in and around London.

Source: Jagri Boaz Binyinjom

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The PAOK defender has been absent from international duty for nearly two years, with his last appearance for Ghana dating back to September 2023.

Rahman withdrew from national team selection after facing severe fan criticism following Ghana’s AFCON qualifier against the Central African Republic at the Baba Yara Stadium.

While several players have already reported to camp, the Ghana Football Association (GFA) is yet to announce the official squad for the Unity Cup in London.

The former Chelsea left-back was spotted in a viral video enjoying dinner at the team hotel in London with teammates Lawrence Ati Zigi and Gideon Mensah.

This season, Rahman has featured in 23 matches for PAOK, contributing 5 goals and 2 assists in league play.

A victory over Nigeria would see the Black Stars advance to face either Jamaica or Trinidad and Tobago in the May 31 final.

The players departed Ghana on Friday night, heading to the UK for the maiden edition of the friendly tournament.

Hearts of Oak goalkeeper Benjamin Asare, who made his senior debut during Ghana’s double win in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers in March, has cemented his place in the national setup. He travelled soon after helping his club secure a 3-1 victory.

Nations FC defender Razak Simpson, a pivotal figure in his side’s push at the top of the Premier League table, will miss their crucial encounter against Samartex due to his international duties.

Asante Kotoko forward Kwame Opoku, currently in fine form for the Porcupine Warriors, will also be unavailable for their game against Bibiani GoldStars.

Meanwhile, Belgian-based midfielders Lawrence Agyekum and Abu Francis are expected to join the camp on Saturday.

Ghana will open their Unity Cup campaign with a blockbuster match against Nigeria on May 28 at the Gtech Community Stadium, home of English Premier League side Brentford. The losing side will play in the third-place playoff, while the winner proceeds to the final on May 31.

The Black Stars are scheduled to officially open camp on Sunday, May 25. The Unity Cup forms part of their preparations for the crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Mali and Chad in September.

The award ceremony took place at the Palace of Westminster, House of Lords, United Kingdom, where Dzamefe was honored for his contributions to African luxury branding.

At the summit, which brought together global business leaders, policymakers, and investors, he was praised for his entrepreneurial vision and ability to establish an internationally recognized brand while promoting local craftsmanship.

Speaking on the recognition, Dzamefe said, “This recognition is not just for me but for every African entrepreneur proving that world-class brands can be built on the continent. Caveman Watches is a testament to innovation, resilience, and the power of dreaming beyond borders.”

The event was attended by high-profile dignitaries, including Dennis Idahosa, Deputy Governor of Edo State, Nigeria; Prof. Mthuli Ncube, Minister of Finance, Economic Development & Investment Promotion, Zimbabwe; and Christopher Williams-Martin, CEO of FlyEliteJets, UK.

Dzamefe’s journey from a self-taught watchmaker to the founder of Africa’s premier luxury watch brand has been remarkable. His commitment to craftsmanship and storytelling has positioned Caveman Watches among the elite, gaining endorsements from global celebrities and business moguls.

Beyond business, he is a mentor and advocate for Africa’s creative and manufacturing industries, inspiring a new generation of innovators.

His recognition at the Leaders Without Borders event further amplifies his mission of placing African excellence on the world map, proving that luxury and precision craftsmanship can thrive from Africa to the world.

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It was just a quick trip, a temporary break – nothing to worry about. Or so I thought.

One month in, she dropped the bombshell – I was not coming back to London until I had reformed and had earned enough GCSEs to continue my education.

I was hoodwinked in a similar way to the British-Ghanaian teenager who recently took his parents to the High Court in London for sending him to school in Ghana.

In their defence, they told the judge they did not want to see their 14-year-old son become “yet another black teenager stabbed to death in the streets of London”.

Back in the mid-1990s, my mother, a primary school teacher, was motivated by similar concerns.

I had been excluded from two high schools in the London Borough of Brent, hanging out with the wrong crowd (becoming the wrong crowd) – and heading down a dangerous path.

My closest friends at the time ended up in prison for armed robbery. Had I stayed in London, I would have almost certainly been convicted with them.

But being sent to Ghana also felt like a prison sentence.

I can empathise to a degree with the teenager, who said in his court statement that he feels like he is “living in hell”.

Yet, speaking for myself, by the time I turned 21 I realised what my mother had done had been a blessing.

Unlike the boy at the centre of the London court case – which he lost – I did not go to boarding school in Ghana.

My mother placed me in the care of her two closest brothers, they wanted to keep an eye on me and it was felt that being around boarders could prove too much of a distraction.

I first stayed with my Uncle Fiifi, a former UN environmentalist, in a town called Dansoman, near the capital, Accra.

The lifestyle change hit hard. In London, I had my own bedroom, access to washing machines and a sense of independence – even if I was using it recklessly.

In Ghana, I was waking up at 05:00 to sweep the courtyard and wash my uncle’s often muddy pick-up truck and my aunt’s car.

It was her vehicle that I would later steal – something of a watershed moment.

I did not even know how to drive properly, treating a manual like an automatic, and I crashed it into a high-ranking soldier’s Mercedes.

I tried to flee the scene. But that soldier caught me and threatened to take me to Burma Camp, the notorious military base where people had disappeared in the past.

That was the last truly reckless thing I did.

It was not just discipline that I learnt in Ghana – it was perspective.

Life in Ghana showed me how much I had taken for granted.

Washing clothes by hand and preparing meals with my aunt made me appreciate the effort needed.

Food, like everything in Ghana, required patience. There were no microwaves, no fast-food runs.

Making the traditional dough-like dish fufu, for example, is laborious and involves pounding cooked yams or cassava into a paste with a mortar.

At the time, it felt like punishment. Looking back, it was building resilience.

Initially, my uncles considered placing me in high-end schools like the Ghana International School or SOS-Hermann Gmeiner International College.

But they were smart. They knew I might just form a new crew to cause chaos and mischief.

Instead, I received private tuition at Accra Academy, a state secondary school that my late father had attended. It meant I was often taught on my own or in small groups.

Lessons were in English, but out of school those around me were often speaking local languages and I found it easy to pick them up perhaps because it was such an immersive experience.

Back home in London, I used to love to learn swear words in my mother’s Fante language – but was far from fluent.

When I later moved to the city of Tema to stay with my favourite uncle, Uncle Jojo – an agricultural expert, I continued private tuition at Tema Secondary School.

In contrast to the boy making the headlines in the UK, who claimed Ghana’s education system was not up to standard, I found it to be exacting.

I was considered academically gifted in the UK, despite my troublesome ways, but actually found it tough going in Ghana. Students my age were far ahead in subjects like maths and science.

The rigour of the Ghanaian system pushed me to study harder than I ever had in London.

The result? I earned five GCSEs with grades C and above – something that once seemed impossible.

Beyond academic achievements, Ghanaian society instilled values that have stayed with me for life.

Respect for elders was non-negotiable. Throughout the neighbourhoods I lived in, you greeted those older than you, regardless of whether or not you knew them.

Ghana did not just make me more disciplined and respectful – it made me fearless.

Football played a huge part in that transformation. I played in the parks, which were often hard red clay with loose pebbles and stones, with two square goalposts fashioned out of wood and string.

It was a far cry from the neatly maintained pitches in England, but it toughened me up in ways I could not have imagined – and it is no wonder some of the greatest footballers seen in the English Premier League have come from West Africa.

The aggressive style played in Ghana was not just about skill – it was about resilience and endurance. Getting tackled on rough ground meant picking yourself up, dusting yourself off and carrying on.

Every Sunday, I played football on the beach – though I would often be late because there was absolutely no way either of my uncles would allow me to stay home instead of attending church.

Those services felt like they lasted forever. But it was also a testament to Ghana as a God-fearing nation, where faith is deeply embedded in everyday life.

The first 18 months were the hardest. I resented the restrictions, the chores, the discipline.

I even tried stealing my passport to fly back to London, but my mother was ahead of me and had hidden it well. There was no escape.

My only choice was to adapt. Somewhere along the way, I stopped seeing Ghana as a prison and started seeing it as happy home.

I know of a few others like me who were sent back to Ghana by their parents living in London.

Michael Adom was 17 when he arrived in Accra for school in the 1990s, describing his experience as “bittersweet”. He stayed until he was 23 and now lives back in London working as a probation officer.

His main complaint was the loneliness – he missed his family and friends. There were times of anger about his situation and the complications of feeling misunderstood.

This largely stemmed from the fact that his parents had not taught him or his siblings any of the local languages when growing up in London.

“I didn’t understand Ga. I didn’t understand Twi. I didn’t understand Pidgin,” the 49-year-old tells me.

This made him feel vulnerable for his first two-and-a-half years – and, he says, liable to being fleeced, for example, by those increasing prices because he seemed foreign.

“Anywhere I went, I had to make sure I went with somebody else,” he says.

But he ended up becoming fluent in Twi and, overall, he believes the positives outweighed the negatives: “It made me a man.

“My Ghana experience matured me and changed me for the better, by helping me to identify with who I am, as a Ghanaian, and cemented my understanding of my culture, background and family history.”

I can concur with this. By my third year, I had fallen in love with the culture and even stayed on for nearly two more years after passing my GCSEs.

I developed a deep appreciation of the local food. Back in London, I never thought twice about what I was eating. But in Ghana, food was not just sustenance – each dish had its own story.

I became obsessed with “waakye” – a dish made from rice and black-eyed peas, often cooked with millet leaves, giving it a distinctive purple-brown colour. It was usually served with fried plantain, the spicy black pepper sauce “shito”, boiled eggs, and sometimes even spaghetti or fried fish. It was the ultimate comfort food.

I enjoyed the music, the warmth of the people and the sense of community. I was not just “stuck” in Ghana any more – I was thriving.

My mother, Patience Wilberforce, passed away recently, and with her loss I have reflected deeply on the decision she made all those years ago.

She saved me. Had she not tricked me into staying in Ghana, the chances of me having a criminal record or even serving time in prison would have been extremely high.

I went on to enrol at the College of North West London aged 20 to study media production and communications, before joining BBC Radio 1Xtra via a mentoring scheme.

The guys I used to hang out with in north-west London did not get the second chance that I did.

Ghana reshaped my mindset, my values and my future. It turned a misguided menace into a responsible man.

While such an experience might not work for everyone, it gave me the education, discipline and respect I needed to reintegrate into society when I returned to England.

And for that, I am forever indebted to my mother, to my uncles and to the country that saved me.

Mark Wilberforce is a freelance journalist based in London and Accra.

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The boy, described in court as shy, articulate, a keen cook and footballer, said his parents had tricked him into going to Africa, saying it was to visit a sick relative.

He said had he known he was being sent to boarding school, “there would have been no way I would have agreed to it”.

But the High Court in London also heard his parents were worried he was being “groomed” into criminal activity.

In a written statement to the court, he said: “I feel like I am living in hell. I really do not think I deserve this and I want to come home, back to England, as soon as possible.”

In his judgment, High Court judge Mr Justice Hayden said he recognised that “this is, in many ways, both a sobering and rather depressing conclusion.”

He said that he was satisfied that the parents’ wish for their son to move to Ghana was “driven by their deep, obvious and unconditional love”.

The boy was at risk of suffering greater harm returning to the UK, he said.

He said that the boy’s parents believe “and in my judgement with reason” that their son has “at very least peripheral involvement with gang culture and has exhibited an unhealthy interest in knives”.

The boy’s father told the judge the couple did not want their son to be “yet another black teenager stabbed to death in the streets of London.”

The boy, who had lived in the UK since birth, said he was “mocked” and “never settled in” at the school in Ghana.

He said he “could also barely understand what was going on and I would get into fights”.

The boy wrote that he was “so scared and desperate” that he emailed the British High Commission in Accra as well as contacting the charity Children and Family Across Borders, who it is believed put him in touch with lawyers at the International Family Law Group.

“I am from London, England, and I want to go back home,” he wrote.

He said he had been “mistreated” at the school, adding: “I’m begging to go back to my old school.”

However, the High Court heard that the boy’s parents had sent him because they feared for his safety in London.

In a statement, his mother said sending him to Africa was “not a punishment but a measure to protect him”.

She referred to the murder of Kelyan Bokassa, the 14-year-old boy who was stabbed to death on a bus in Woolwich in January. That was “every parent’s worst nightmare”, she said.

She said she did not believe her son would survive in the UK and did not want to be part of her son’s “destruction”.

Rebecca Foulkes, representing the boy’s father, said the boy met 11 of the points on a checklist produced by the children’s charity NSPCC to indicate whether a child might have joined a gang or was being criminally exploited.

That included being absent from school, having unexplained money, buying new things, and carrying weapons.

She said it was not only the parents who were worried.

His school claimed it had “suspicions about him engaging in criminal activities” and had observed him in expensive clothes and with mobile phones.

The boy said he had never been part of a gang, nor “involved in gangs in any way”. He said he “does not know anyone involved in a gang” and he does not carry a knife.

He acknowledged in his statements that “my behaviour wasn’t the best” and said he thought that was the reason his parents sent him to Africa.

The case centred on the question of parental responsibility, and whether the parents acted unlawfully by sending their son to boarding school without his consent.

In a statement issued after the judgement, his parents said: “This has been a really difficult time for us all.”

They added: “Our priority has always been protecting our son and our focus now is on moving forward as a family.”

James Netto from the International Family Law Group, who represented the boy, said the court judgment had been a “real shock” to the teenager.

“He was obviously incredibly disappointed, incredibly upset and is considering his next steps carefully.”

‘I want to have an education’

The boy’s barrister, Deirdre Fottrell KC, pointed out the school was not simply far from home – but a completely different jurisdiction.

The boy wrote that his education was suffering. He felt the Ghanaian classes were not as challenging as those in his English school, and he had been out of formal education entirely since last summer, studying online.

He wrote: “I want to have an education again and grow up like a normal person. I feel like my brain is hurt here. I feel like now I am dumber than people I used to be smarter than.”

The boy’s father has recently visited him in Africa, and he told the court that he and his son had got on well.

He said he would like his son to remain in Ghana, and said they visited a different boarding school where the boy could be considered for a place.

The father said they were both very impressed.

However, questioned by Ms Fottrell, he acknowledged there was no place in that school until September, and that his son had not said he wanted to go there.

The boy’s solicitor said he had recently seen a rise in similar cases where teenagers were trying to return to the UK.

“Teenagers are often placed in exceptionally challenging or vulnerable situations, and are now beginning to turn to the court for protection,” Mr Netto said.

He said he had seen cases where “in their parents’ eyes” young people were “falling in with the wrong crowd or are adopting what their parents see as unorthodox or challenging behaviours”.

Following the judgment, he added: “We have already received enquiries from young people in exactly the same situation as this young man.”

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Kenyan Kipchoge, a two-time Olympic marathon champion, is the record four-time winner of the men’s race in London, where he last competed in 2020.

The 40-year-old former world record holder described his mid-race drop-out at his final Olympic Games in Paris as “demoralising” but still believes he can compete for a fifth victory in London.

“Sport is full of challenges. I’m still working hard to get better, trying to inspire people and sell the power of sport,” Kipchoge said.

“I still think I can compete. I am training in a good way and competing with the youngest people.”

The 2025 London Marathon takes place on Sunday, 27 April.

London Marathon CEO Hugh Brasher said this year’s event boasts “the greatest elite field in the history of the London Marathon”.

Women’s world record holder Ruth Chepngetich, Olympic champion Sifan Hassan and silver medallist Tiger Assefa – the three fastest women in history – have been confirmed in the women’s race, which will see Eilish McColgan make her debut.

Emile Cairess will lead British interest in the men’s race, where he could have Mo Farah’s British record in his sights and will be joined by Olympic and world triathlon champion Alex Yee.

‘Kipchoge the greatest we’ve ever seen’

Kipchoge became the first athlete to run a marathon in under two hours in October 2019.

However, that time is not recognised as the official world record because it was not in open competition and he used a team of rotating pacemakers.

His official personal best stands at two hours one minute and nine seconds – the second fastest time in history.

In addition to his Olympic triumphs at both Rio 2016 and Tokyo 2020, Kipchoge has 11 victories across the world‘s major marathons.

That includes an unbeaten four-year streak in London in 2015, 2016, 2018 and 2019.

His previous appearance came during the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020, when he finished eighth.

That represented his sole defeat in 16 marathons across a remarkable spell of dominance between 2014 and 2022.

Asked about when he might choose to retire, Kipchoge said he would only reveal his future plans after racing in London.

Brasher described Kipchoge as “the greatest marathon runner of this or any other age.

“You could make a compelling case that his incredible stretch of dominance in marathon racing makes him the greatest athlete we have ever seen,” Brasher added.

In a press release, GACL cited the short notice as the reason for the delay, stating that the flight will now arrive later this week.

The new service, launched in collaboration with Ethiopian Airlines, marks a significant milestone in enhancing connectivity between Ghana and the United Kingdom, with Kumasi becoming the destination of Ghana’s first direct international flight outside Accra.

While the exact new date for the first flight’s arrival has yet to be disclosed, GACL reassured the public that the second scheduled flight, set for December 15, 2024, will proceed as planned.

The initiative reflects GACL’s efforts to expand air travel options and bolster regional development.

This direct service is expected to strengthen tourism, trade, and investment opportunities for Kumasi and its surrounding regions.

Travelers and stakeholders have been advised to stay updated on developments through GACL’s official communication channels.

This revelation came as a shock to many fans and panellists on the 3Music show, as Medikal is known for seamlessly switching between Ghanaian and UK accents in his music.

Medikal explained that his parents separated during his time in the UK, leading him to make the decision to return to Ghana with his mother.

According to him, this marked the beginning of his life in Sowutuom, a suburb of Accra.

Despite his return to Ghana, Medikal maintains strong ties to the UK, where he still has family members.

“People don’t know I lived in Brixton from age 11 to 14 before I came down. My mom and dad divorced and I chose my mom’s side, and we went through some or twos. Before Sowutuom, it was Brixton. Why would I mimic the accent? I have family there,” Medikal explained, addressing misconceptions about his accent.

Interestingly, the panellists expressed their surprise at this revelation, but Medikal, who recently sold out the O2 Indigo arena in London, believed it was already common knowledge.

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According to him, he was arrested for driving offences and nightclub incidents, but not for a criminal offence.

Nana Kwame Bediako was reacting to allegations that, he was arrested in the United Kingdom for engaging in criminality.

Those making the allegation claim he cannot vie to be President in Ghana because he has a criminal record in the UK.

But, Nana Bediako challenged those making the allegations to provide concrete evidence of the criminal charges against him.

In a live question and answer session with his supporters, he tasked his detractors to learn the difference between arrests and actual criminal charges.

Nana Kwame Bediako attributed the vile propaganda to envy and attempts to undermine his success.

This notwithstanding, the presidential hopeful remains resolute in his quest to lead Ghanaians to the promise land.

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The case is being brought by legal academic Dr Liza Lovdahl Gormsen, on behalf of 45 million Facebook users.

Her original claim was refused, in 2023, but a revised version has now been accepted, with early 2026 said to be the latest it could be heard.

Meta said the claims “remain entirely without merit and we will vigorously defend against them”.

‘Take-it-or-leave-it’ offer

The new claim says: “Facebook has struck an unfair bargain with its users,” according to legal documents.

Facebook abused its dominance by making users give it their data from non-Facebook products, including Meta-owned Instagram and other third-party sites.

And sharing data with third parties had become “a condition of accessing the Facebook platform, pursuant to a ‘take-it-or-leave-it’ offer”.

Facebook is free to use but carries advertisements.

The more data it has on its users, the better it can target adverts – and the more it can charge.

‘Fundamental concerns’

The claim is seeking £2.07-3.1bn compensation for those who had Facebook accounts between February 2016 and October 2023.

It will be heard at the Competition Appeal Tribunal.

Meta said the “fundamental concerns identified by the tribunal in its February 2023 judgement have not been resolved”.

It was “committed to giving people meaningful control” of the information they shared on its platforms and to “invest heavily to create tools that allow them to do so.”

The legal action is being funded by Innsworth, a company backed by an investment management fund, which has also funded mass legal actions against Mastercard, Ericsson and Volkswagen.

In 2023, Meta paid out $725m (£583m), in a privacy case, to Facebook account holders in the US.

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Erling Haaland, Kylian Mbappe and Lionel Messi are the final three for the top men’s player award.

World Cup stars Aitana Bonmati, Linda Caicedo and Jennifer Hermoso are the women’s candidates.

The ceremony will be shown live on BBC iPlayer and online from 19:30 GMT.

A mix of votes from national team players and captains, journalists and fans on Fifa’s website – with each counting for 25% – are used to decide the winners, with men’s and women’s awards for best coach and goalkeeper.

The Puskas Award – named after Hungarian legend Ferenc Puskas – will reward the best goal and is decided by pundits.

The Fifa Best Awards generally cover a calendar year and differ from the Ballon d’Or, which reflect performances across a season.

However, this year, the men’s awards – and Puskas award – are judged from 19 December 2022 to 20 August 2023, because the Qatar World Cup was included in last year’s ceremony.

The women’s awards are based on performances from 1 August 2022 to 20 August 2023.

There are also awards for a fan and fair play, while a men’s and women’s World XI will be named.

Men’s player

Last year’s Fifa winner and the current Ballon d’Or holder Messi is up against Manchester City striker Haaland and former Paris St-Germain team-mate Mbappe.

In the time being judged for the award after the World Cup, Messi scored nine goals for PSG as they won the French title and 10 goals in seven games as his new club Inter Miami won the inaugural Leagues Cup in the United States.

Haaland was a key part of the Manchester City team which won the Treble of Champions League, Premier League and FA Cup.

The 23-year-old Norway striker scored a record 36 Premier League goals last season. In all competitions in 2022-23, he scored a club-record 52 goals – with 28 of them coming after the World Cup (plus another two goals this season before 20 August).

France’s Mbappe, like Messi, won the Ligue 1 title with PSG – and clinched a fifth consecutive Golden Boot.

The 25-year-old scored 18 goals for his French club during the judgment window.

Women’s player

The women’s award is judged from 1 August 2022 to 20 August 2023, the date of the Women’s World Cup final.

Two of the nominees, Bonmati and Hermoso played in the Spain midfield as they beat England to win the World Cup in Australia.

Bonmati, 25, has won Uefa’s Player of the Year and the Ballon d’Or already after also leading Barcelona to the Spanish and Champions League titles.

Hermoso, 33, plays her club football in Mexico, recently joining Tigres from Pachuca. She scored three goals and created two assists during the World Cup.

The other candidate is 18-year-old Colombia forward Caicedo, who joined Real Madrid from Deportivo Cali last season.

She played in the Under-17, Under-20 and senior World Cups, scoring the goal of the tournament for her strike in Colombia’s shock win over Germany.

Puskas award

The nominees for the Puskas Award are Julio Enciso, Guilherme Madruga and Nuno Santos.

Brighton forward Enciso, 19, is shortlisted for a 25-yard strike into the top corner against Manchester City in the Premier League back in May at the end of a slick passing move.

That goal won the BBC’s Match of the Day Goal of the Season award.

Botafogo midfielder Madruga, 23, scored a stunning overhead kick from outside the box in a Brazilian second-tier game against Novorizontino in June.

Sporting Lisbon winger Santos, 28, netted a fantastic rabona that went in via the post in a Portuguese league game against Boavista in March.

Men’s coach

The shortlist for the best men’s coach, judged on the same timeframe as the men’s player, are Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola, Inter Milan’s Simone Inzaghi and former Napoli boss Luciano Spalletti.

Guardiola is nominated after taking City to the Treble, only the second English team after Manchester United in 1998-99 to do that.

He is the only coach to win two Trebles, having previously done it with Barcelona in 2008-09.

Inzaghi was nominated after winning the Coppa Italia with Inter and taking them to the Champions League final, where they lost to City.

Spalletti guided Napoli to their first Serie A title in 33 years – and their first without the late Diego Maradona – with a record-equalling five games to spare.

He left the club at the end of the season and now manages the Italian national team.

Women’s coach

England boss Sarina Wiegman, Chelsea’s Emma Hayes and Barcelona’s Jonatan Giraldez are the nominees for the best women’s coach.

Dutchwoman Wiegman – who won the award last year – took England to the World Cup final, where they lost to Spain. The Lionesses won the Arnold Clark Cup and Women’s Finalissima last season.

Hayes took Chelsea to a Women’s Super League and FA Cup Double.

Giraldez led Barcelona to the Champions League and Spanish title, where they won 28 out of 30 games.

Men’s goalkeeper

Manchester City’s Ederson, Real Madrid’s Thibaut Courtois and former Sevilla goalkeeper Yassine Bounou are nominated for the men’s goalkeeper award.

Brazilian Ederson helped City to win the title while Belgium’s Courtois won the Spanish Cup with Real.

Morocco’s Bounou saved two Roma penalties as Sevilla won the Europa League final in a penalty shootout before leaving for Al-Hilal in Saudi Arabia.

Women’s goalkeeper

England’s Mary Earps is up against Spain’s Catalina Coll and Australia’s Mackenzie Arnold. All three had impressive World Cups.

Manchester United’s Earps, who won this award last year, only conceded four goals in seven games for the Lionesses in Australia and New Zealand.

The 30-year-old recently won the BBC’s Sports Personality of the Year and BBC Women’s Footballer of the Year awards.

Barcelona’s Coll did not make her international debut until the World Cup last 16 but played all the knockout games as Spain won the tournament.

She only made three appearances for her club last season.

Arnold, 29, kept four clean sheets for co-hosts Australia at the World Cup.

Dubbed the #OccupyJulorbiHouse London Edition, the protesters wielded placards some of whose inscriptions read; Stop galamsey, Akufo-Addo we will resist oppressor’s rule, drop that sakawa constitution among others.

This comes after the three-day #occupyjulorbiHouse protest in Ghana led by the pressure group, Democracy Hub.

The group chanted slogans, demanding change and accountability from Ghanaian leaders.

Joy News’ Manuel Koranteng took to Twitter to give updates and share some visuals from the exercise.

Scores of Ghanaians beseech the Ghana High Commission in London in protest of bad governance and crippling economic challenges back in their home country. They call it #OccupyJulorbiHouse London Edition pic.twitter.com/OEBybEmDhJ

— Manuel Koranteng ????✌️ (@ManuelKoranteng) September 29, 2023

In the heat of their demonstration, another group of Ghanaians also emerged to tout the achievements of the Akufo-Addo-led government.

Their presence resulted in a standoff between those advocating for change and those defending the status quo.

The pro-government group accused the demonstrators of mischief, suggesting that they were attempting to tarnish the government’s image.

#OcccupyJulorbiHouse in London:

Meanwhile, another group of Ghanaians, suspected to be sympathizers of the current government have organized a counter protest to highlight the ‘good works’ of the government.

They say the other folks are not Ghanaians. See video?? pic.twitter.com/kiSk0K8mLZ

— Manuel Koranteng ????✌️ (@ManuelKoranteng) September 29, 2023

Manuel also reported that the attempt of the protestors calling for change to get the attention of the High Commissioner, Papa Owusu Ankomah, proved futile.

Mr Ankomah refused to grant an audience to the protesters.

His action, however, infuriated the group as some participants chased him while he moved to his car.

UPDATE: #OccupyJurlobiHouse in London

Ghana’s High Commissioner to the UK, Paapa Owusu Ankomah leaves the building without granting audience to the protestors saying, he’s “going somewhere.”

The protestors are heard saying “you should be ashamed of yourself” as he’s driven off. pic.twitter.com/IPT30js4Vt

— Manuel Koranteng ????✌️ (@ManuelKoranteng) September 29, 2023

Their journey commenced on Saturday, July 22nd, with the primary goal of raising awareness about digital poverty prevalent in rural areas of Ghana.

The group planned to reach London within 16 days, opting for a road trip instead of a seven-hour flight to the same destination from Ghana.

THE ROUTE

Day 1: Bouaké, Côte d’Ivoire, starting from the border at Gonokrom near Dormaa Ahenkro
Day 2: Bamako, Mali.
Day 3: Dakar, Senegal. An additional day has been scheduled for car servicing and maintenance.
Day 5: Nouakchott, Mauritania.
Day 6: Dakhla, Morocco.
Day 7: Guelmim, Morocco.
Day 8: Casablanca, Morocco.
Day 9: Tangier, Morocco.
Day 10: The journey continues from Tangier to Algeciras, Spain, using a ferry. Overnight stay in Valencia.
Day 11: Arriving in Monaco.
Day 12: Reaching Lake Como.
Day 13: Frankfurt.
Day 14: Amsterdam.
Day 16: Arrival in London via the Calais/Dover route.

This venture marks the first time Ghanaians are undertaking such an adventure.

The organisers said beyond the excitement, they also sought to gain first-hand experience of cross-border travel within the continent, aligning with the ideals of free trade.

Who are the Adventurers?

Comprising a team of Ghanaian professionals, the group includes realtors, bankers, software developers, and business leaders.

Their purpose transcends mere travel; Kojo Akoto Boateng, one of the participants, revealed that while these journeys are enjoyable, they are also avenues for building relationships and devising solutions for rural Ghana.

Their trips serve as fundraisers to establish schools, libraries, e-learning resources, and provide mentorship for rural children.

Among the predominantly male group, there is a lone female mechanic, Nana Efua Serwaa Adusei.

Driving Towards Digitization

Outside urban centres in Ghana, numerous communities and schools lack access to essential digital tools. Recognizing this, Kwabena Ayirebi, a leader among the adventurers, underscores the mission of the Wanderlust Ghana group to raise awareness about digital poverty in the country.

Their objective includes collecting funds to establish digital libraries that would link Ghanaian communities to the world of possibilities. The target of USD 100,000 aims to bring technology to the fingertips of young individuals, using these libraries as their gateway to a broader world.

As of August 4th, they have raised USD 6,000, designated as a digital catalyst fund to support digital charities.

Kwabena, a realtor, reflects on the journey’s conception since 2018, with the aspiration of completing it within sixteen days. The group documented every aspect of their voyage on social media, encompassing immigration and border procedures, as well as aspects like food and accommodation.

The Journey’s Genesis

Despite planning for the trip in 2018, the endeavour faced delays due to the challenge of assembling participants.

The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2019 further hindered their plans. Three years after the pandemic’s emergence, they finally gave themselves the green light, determined to embark on this journey without external sponsorship.

The road trip for digitization comprised a convoy of five Ghanaian-registered cars, crossing through Mali, Senegal, and Mauritania. Kwabena Ayirebi shared on Facebook that they serviced some vehicles in Dakar, Senegal before progressing to Morocco.

By August 4th, another member of the group, Kojo Saka, confirmed that they had driven 7,200 kilometres to reach Spain.

While some members returned to Ghana, others left for South Africa and the Netherlands due to work commitments. Ultimately, by August 6th, nine individuals successfully reached London, completing the entire journey.

#AccratoLondon Creates Social Media Buzz

On platforms like Facebook and Twitter, numerous individuals have praised the adventurers for their courage and determination.

Messages of encouragement flooded in, including those from media personalities and sports journalists.

Ghanaian sports journalist Saddick Adams expressed his wish to document this thrilling 10,000-kilometre journey.

Gary Al-Smith also conveyed his anticipation for an intriguing twist in the adventure’s conclusion.

Ben Dotsei Malo, former BBC editor and current UN News chief editor, lauded the journey as an amazing, daring, and beautiful adventure.

He extended his respect and admiration to the team for their meticulous planning and preparation.

While some raised concerns about the risks involved, Wanderlust Ghana remains undeterred, emphasizing their unwavering commitment to the #DrivingForDigitization agenda.

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As part of the celebration, various rituals and ceremonies were performed to pay homage to the Ashanti ancestors and to seek blessings for well-being and prosperity.

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In view of this, some selected Ghanaian artistes including Samini and Article Wan were billed to entertain the foreign fans.

The presence of Samini undoubtedly added to the festive spirit as he took fans back to the early years of his music career.

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He made his majestic entrance while singing ‘Odo’ before transitioning into ‘Linda’ which attracted loud cheers.

The event was filled with excitement as attendees enjoyed the lively music and dance.

The ceremony did not only provide fun but a sense of home and belonging to the diaspora.

Watch video below:

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Otumfuo and his spouse, Lady Julia, were received at Buckingham Palace where they had a private audience with the King ahead of his coronation.

Monarchical historian, Teacher Sarfo Kantanka, says the events in the UK will solidify the relations between the two kingdoms and countries.

The Asantehene departed Kumasi on Wednesday to the United Kingdom for the coronation of King Charles III.

King Charles will be crowned alongside Camilla, Queen Consort at a ceremony at Westminster Abbey conducted by the Archbishop of Canterbury.

Royalty from around the world is expected to be in attendance.

Teacher Sarfo Kantanka, a cultural historian at the Manhyia Palace, highlights the relationship between the Asante Kingdom and the United Kingdom.

“Both are kingdoms but the relationship has been something of bitter and sweet. It is believed they have fought the British for well over 100 years; that is when they were a kingdom of their own in Africa when several battles went in favour of the Ashanti’s,” he touted. 

According to Teacher Kantanka, the relationship between both kingdoms improved after several decades of war. 

“When somebody gives you a tough time, even if you win, you tend to respect that person. The respect for the Ashantis is because of the difficult moments they gave the British. In this case, every invitation, they tend to recognise the Ashantehene,” he said. 

The Asantehene’s representation at the coronation of King Charles is to solidify the bilateral relations between the kingdoms.

“Whatever is going to take place there is for the benefit of Ghana led by the Ashante king,” he added. 

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The Asantehene and his wife are in London at the invitation of the Royal family, joining monarchs and leaders from across the globe.

King Charles was pictured today with the Asantehene, as the pair laughed with each other.

Photos from the meeting have been shared by GettyImages.

They will assemble at Westminster Abbey on Saturday for what is expected to be a feast of pageantry marking the first coronation in over 70 years.

Apart from today’s private audience at Buckingham Palace, they will also attend the King’s official reception for overseas guests on Friday, May 5, 2023.

The leader of the Achuar Nation of the Ecuadorian Amazon, Uyunkar Domingo Peas was also received at the Buckingham Palace today.

Photo credit: GettyImages

Photo credit: GettyImages

The Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ADSW) is a global initiative championed by the UAE and its clean energy powerhouse Masdar to accelerate sustainable development and advance economic, social and environmental progress.

Established in 2008, ADSW brings together heads of state, policy makers, industry leaders, investors, entrepreneurs and youth – who all have a stake in the future of the planet – to discuss and engage on bold climate action and innovations that will ensure a more sustainable world for future generations.

President Akufo-Addo will then depart Abu Dhabi on Thursday, 19th January, to London for a six-day private visit.

The President was accompanied by the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Shirley Ayorkor Botchway, MP; Minister for Energy, Dr. Matthew Opoku-Prempeh; Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Samuel Abu Jinapor; Minister for Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation, Dr Kwaku Afriyie, officials from the Presidency and Foreign Ministry.

President Akufo-Addo will return to Ghana on Wednesday, 25th January 2023, and, in his absence, the Vice President, Alhaji Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, shall, in accordance with Article 60(8) of the Constitution, act in his stead.

Emergency services rushed to the O2 Academy in Brixton following the reports of crowd trouble at 9.35pm on Thursday night.

Metropolitan Police said eight people were taken to hospital with four in a critical condition after finding “a number of people with injuries believed to have been caused by crushing” at the Asake concert.

Fans of the Nigerian singer were said to have been locked outside in freezing temperatures, leading to some trying to force their way into the venue and the concert being cancelled, according to Scotland Yard.

Video footage appears to show clashes between fans and police, along with a large emergency service presence at the scene.

A police statement warned against sharing “upsetting” footage while also saying that “where force has been used by police officers, those officers know they have to be accountable for their actions.”

Lambeth Police tweeted shortly after footage broke to release a statement saying: “Emergency services attended the O2 Academy in #Brixton following reports that a number of people had been injured after a large crowd attempted to gain entry without tickets. 4 people are in a critical condition at hospital. Officers will remain in the area to provide reassurance.”

A cancellation announcement had been made on stage partway through the sold-out gig and was met with uproar.

Speaking to the fans, they said: “The reason we have to stop the show is because they have breached the doors. You’ve got 3,000 people have broken the doors outside and because of security the police have asked us to close the show.”

As the fans loudly booed, the message continued: “This is nothing to do with us,” before adding: “This is basically – listen to what I am saying…”

The booing drowned out the messaging, causing another to add: “Listen, for your own safety, for your own safety, listen please. For your own safety, please, please, please. There are people who’ve breached the door. They have broken in and security are trying to help with it.”

They went on to try to appease the moans by saying for everyone who had purchased a ticket for the show, a refund would be available.

The Metropolitan Police statement read: “Detectives are investigating the circumstances which led to four people sustaining critical injuries in Brixton.

“Police were called at 21:35hrs on Thursday, 15 December to the O2 Academy on Stockwell Road, SW9 following reports that a large number of people were attempting to force entry to the venue. Officers, London Ambulance Service (LAS) and London Fire Brigade attended and found a number of people with injuries believed to have been caused by crushing.

“Eight people were taken by ambulance to hospital, four of whom remain in a critical condition. LAS treated two other less seriously injured people at the scene.

“An urgent investigation is under way led by detectives from Specialist Crime. Cordons remain in place at the location as officers continue work at the scene. Nobody has been arrested.”

Commander Ade Adelekan, Met Police Gold Commander, said: “This is an extremely upsetting incident which has left four people critically ill in hospital. My thoughts and prayers are with them and their families.

“A police investigation has been launched, and it will be as thorough and as forensic as necessary to establish exactly what happened last night. The scene will be examined by specialist officers, CCTV will be viewed, every witness that we can make contact with will be spoken to and all other lines of enquiry will be followed.

“Officers are remaining in the area to provide reassurance to the local community in and around Brixton. If you have any information or concerns, please speak with them.

“I am aware of video being shared on social media. I would ask people to be sensible about what they share, and not to post material that will be upsetting to those affected by this incident. Where force has been used by police officers, those officers know they have to be accountable for their actions. The Met’s Directorate of Professional Standards will view all material, including Body Worn Video footage from the officers at the scene. In relation to a clip being widely shared, I can confirm that no police dogs were deployed to the location.”

Irate fans took to social media to vent their frustration at the abrupt ending of the concert, with many sharing videos to their platforms.

One user on Twitter wrote: “Asake’s show got canceled. Organisers trying to protect ravers or they have no respect for them?”

And another speaking of the goings-on outside added: “So the police have locked off Asake and have left a bunch of people in an alley in the freezing cold. It is well.”

Replying to the comment, culture writer Jason Okundaye claimed: “Not Asake’s fault at all, seems people who didn’t have tickets turned up with fake tickets or just broke their way in so capacity was reached with thousands of paying ticket holders outside. Grown cheap adults ruining it for everyone.”

Another user responded: “Asake has had the worst luck with these UK concerts. I can imagine he’d be reluctant to come back.”

Asake is an award-winning singer-songwriter who had sold out three shows in O2 Brixton Arena.

His debut album titled Mr Money With The Vibe was released this year and featured the tune Sungba.

The songs helped the 27-year-old break many records in his native Nigeria, including becoming the African album with the most first-day streams on Apple Music.

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‘Blacko’ chose London for his first-ever headline show and the crowd repaid him with a sold out debut, and the greatest response ever.

Black Sherif’s debut headline show saw him give a sterling performance of songs off his latest album ‘The Villian I Never Was’.

The 2021 VGMA New Artiste of the Year pulled a surprise for his fans when he introduced the three-time Grammy awards nominee for the World Album Category, Burna Boy who he performed his Second Sermon remix with.

Also, Blacko shared his stage with Victony and Darkoo, causing the crowd to roar in excitment.

Foreigners who were on their feet all night could be heard singing his lyrics word for word amid chanting and dancing.

Following Blacko’s headline performance last night, Twitter has been buzzing with reactions and videos from Black Sherif’s performance.

Watch videos below:

President Akufo-Addo will return to Ghana on Wednesday, 16th November 2022.

In his absence, the Vice President, Alhaji Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, shall, in accordance with Article 60(8) of the Constitution, act in his stead.

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This comes after President Akufo-Addo led Ghana’s delegation to the World Leaders’ Summit of the United Nations (UN) Climate Change Conference (COP 27), being held in Sharm el-Sheikh, in Egypt last week.

Tamim Ian Habimana was stabbed in the heart in Woolwich, south east London, in July 2021.

A boy, 16, was found guilty at the Old Bailey of manslaughter but cleared of murder.

He was also convicted of wounding a second victim, having a blade and conspiracy to commit violent disorder.

Four other youths, aged between 16 and 20, were cleared of murder, manslaughter and attempted murder.

However, one of them, aged 16 was convicted of wounding, possession of an offensive weapon and conspiracy to commit violent disorder.

Another, aged 17, was convicted of having an offensive weapon and conspiracy to commit violent disorder.

Prosecution barrister Danny Robinson KC had told jurors how the group went to Woolwich “intent on revenge” for a stabbing in Dartford nine days previously.

Mr Habimana and two other young men walked towards them and “within seconds”, the 16-year-old produced his weapon with which he fatally stabbed Mr Habimana, who ran up the road before collapsing by a bus stop.

An off-duty police officer intervened to stop the fight and the defendants fled.

Officers later found the umbrella stem, knife blade and handle discarded nearby.

Sentencing was adjourned to a date to be fixed.

The solemn ceremony came off on Tuesday, July 26, 2022, in London.

It was a difficult moment for Prof Gyampo as he stood in front of relatives and sympathisers to read a tribute in honour of his father.

His emotions got a better part of him and he broke down in tears and wept uncontrollably.

Senior Gyampo passed on on Tuesday, June 14, 2022, after an illness.

He was 87 years.

Taye Francis, 40, already had convictions for rape and violence when he killed Khloemae Loy, 23, in a London hotel room last July.

The “self-obsessed” man sent a photo of Khloemae as she lay dead on a bed to his lawyer saying “I’ve killed my girlfriend” as he called 999, jurors at the Old Bailey heard.

She was pronounced dead at the scene at a Holiday Inn in Greenwich, south east London.

Prosecutor Kate Lumsdon QC had told jurors it was not an issue if Francis killed her, but they must consider whether he was suffering from any mental condition at the time.

She said: “Mr Francis was a violent, self-obsessed man who took steroids.

“Apart from building muscle mass, steroids have various side effects. These include aggression and paranoia. Our case is that he killed her in anger. It was murder.”

Francis, of no fixed address, had admitted manslaughter by diminished responsibility and was convicted of murder by a jury.

Francis, formerly known as Ashley Wyatt, had a string of convictions for violence against women going back to 2002, the court heard.

In 2002, he was jailed for six years and placed on the sex offenders’ register for two rapes, kidnap and having a blade. In 2013, he was handed a non-molestation order and jailed for assaulting another woman who he threatened to kill and stab in the neck.

In 2015, he was convicted of criminal damage during a domestic incident. In 2016, he was given a conditional discharge for attacking an ex-girlfriend.

Khloemae met Francis while working at a pub near Croydon College, where she was a student.

She told her parents, Maxine and Dany Loy, that he was 26 and that he was a fellow student – neither of which was true.

In 2017, the defendant assaulted Khloemae and threw her in a wheelie bin, jurors were told.

At that time, he was convicted and given a 20-week sentence with a restraining order.

Ms Lumsdon told jurors: “Her parents encouraged Khloemae to leave Mr Francis. Khloemae said she could not leave him or he would attack Mr and Mrs Loy.

“The records paint a picture, you may think, of an aggressive, controlling man and a troubled, frightened woman who is struggling with her mental health.”

The day before Khloemae was murdered she cancelled a shopping trip with her mother, saying she was going to the coast to meet her Francis’ parents.

The next day, Khloemae was found lying on a bed at a hotel in Greenwich with a deep cut to her neck.

Francis was hanging from a ledge outside, having thrown a small rucksack and a suitcase out of the window.

The defendant, who had cuts to his body and had recently taken steroids, was eventually dealt with by the emergency services, put into an induced coma and taken to hospital.

A set of knives were found in the hotel room; a receipt showed these had been bought just a week prior to the attack from a supermarket in Sutton, police said.

Francis and Khloemae had been in an on and off relationship since around 2015, the court heard.

Jurors were told he had grown suspicious that people were out to cause him harm, and that is his paranoia is believed to have been fuelled by his abuse of steroids which were found at the scene.

The victim, Ranjith Kakanamalage, was attacked and left for dead in Tower Hamlets, East London.

The 50-year-old, also known as Roy, was a gay man who had lived in the area for many years, cops said.

Officers were called by the London Ambulance Service following reports of a man found unresponsive.

Police found Mr Kakanamalage with a head injury – and he was pronounced dead at the scene.

A post-mortem examination found the cause of death to have been blunt force trauma to the head.

The incident, which took place on August 16, is being treated as a homophobic hate crime.

Detective Chief Superintendent Marcus Barnett said: “This is a horrific murder and my thoughts are with Ranjith’s family and loved ones.

“Whilst such incidents are thankfully still very rare in London, I want to reassure that community that my officers and specialist detectives are working tirelessly to bring those responsible to justice.

‘HORRIFIC MURDER’

“I also want to be really clear that there is no place, at all, in London for any form of hate crime and the Met is absolutely committed to tackling it and supporting victims. We are here for you.”

Police have increased patrols in the area and officers have been working with the LGBT+ Advisory Group and LGBT+ charities including Galop, Elop and Positive East to inform and encourage members of the community to stay safe in the wake of the incident.

A crime scene remains in the park and is expected to stay in place for a number of days, and a 36-year-old man arrested in connection with the attack has been released on bail.

ONGOING INVESTIGATION

Detective Superintendent Pete Wallis said: “My officers are working 24/7 with local colleagues and drawing from resources across the Met. We will stop at nothing to bring justice to Ranjith’s family, who have been left devastated following this awful incident.

“I need anyone who has information to contact us immediately. Have you seen someone in the park or area who was acting suspiciously? It is imperative that you tell us what you know. Ranjith’s family are devastated, and your information could help us bring them justice.”

Derek Lee, from the LGBT+ Advisory Group, said: “We are a voluntary group of independent advisors working closely with the local police, local council and the homicide team on this case.

“We are making sure that LGBT+ issues are addressed in the investigation of this tragic death as well as the wider police response regarding safety in Tower Hamlets and the whole of London.

“If you have any information, please contact the police, Crimestoppers or the LGBT+ charity, Galop. The investigation team is clear that they are only interested in information relevant to the case and your privacy will be respected.”

The Sarknation president posted a video where praises were being rained on him by a Sri Lankan working in London.

The foreigner run into Sarkodie who was in the company of others, and used that opportunity to identify himself as a staunch fan.

He disclosed he was introduced to Sarkodie’s music by a Ghanaian he used to work with, and since then, he has not failed in loving the latter.

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He tagged sarkodie a star, and encouraged him to keep singing, adding “you’re gonna make people happy.”

An elated Sarkodie could be heard expressing profound gratitude to his new found fan.

Video below:

Maria Jane Rawlings, 45, from Chelmsford, Essex, was found deceased in Little Heath, Romford, by a man who was walking his dog at around 2:pm on Tuesday. 

A post-mortem examination gave the woman’s preliminary cause of death as neck compression and possible blunt force head trauma, the force said. 

Officers are still examining the scene and are expected to remain in the area for several days. On Monday evening, Ms Rawlings attended the King George Hospital in Goodmayes, Ilford, before leaving on foot to Barley Lane in the direction of the A12. 

Detectives believe someone may have approached her while she was walking on that road. Police are yet to make an arrest, the Met said as detectives appeal for witnesses.

Detective Chief Inspector David Hillier, who is leading the investigation, said: “My team and I are working around the clock following a number of inquiries in our work to establish what happened to Maria. 

“Her family is understandably distraught and we are doing all we can to help them as they begin to come to terms with their loss. 

“Now I am asking for the public to help us. I want to hear from anyone who knew Maria and knows about where she had been and who she had been associating with. 

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“Have you seen her in the area in the company of another person? Had you recently heard or seen a disturbance or struggle in the area but did not think it significant at the time? 

“You might have dash-cam or doorbell footage that could have captured her – please think carefully and, if you can help, contact police.”

Chief Superintendent Stephen Clayman, BCU commander for Barking and Dagenham, Havering and Redbridge, added: ‘I understand the concerns around safety that will arise from this, particularly from women, and we have increased patrols in the area from our local policing teams. 

“Community safety remains a high priority and I urge anyone who has any concern to speak to my officers when you see them or contact us.”

During one of her foreign tours, she hit the street of London, and some men who were preparing for a photoshoot could not help but admire her.

After holding a conversation with her, they begged to take photos with her, particularly of her backside.

She hugged the Romanian men as they take turns to capture their memorable moment with her.

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In her reminiscing state, she posted the video on Instagram to shower praises on herself and God for making her find love and favour in the eyes of men.

The Herald Newspaper had reported that the president has been flown out of the country for the treatment after testing positive for the virus.

Citing sources at the Jubilee House, the paper said President Akufo-Addo and a couple of his close aides had contracted the disease.

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But Communications Director at the Jubilee House, Eugene Arhin said the report is false.

In a Facebook post, Mr Arhin asked the public to “disregard the false story.”

He added that the publication is “clearly a figment of the author’s imagination.

“The President is in the country, and he’s currently at the Presidential Villa in Jubilee House, observing the 14-day self-isolation precautionary measure, in compliance with Covid-19 protocols,” he added.

Mr Arhin shared a photo of the president – who is self-isolating after someone close to him tested positive for Covid-19 – his wife and two of their children.

President Akufo has gone back to his to his alma mater, Lancing College in England where his class of 1962 describe him as brilliant, unpretentious and blessed with sporting skills.

The 13-years old Akufo-Addo entered the Lancing college in England in the 1960s as William Akufo Addo, the only African student in a white-dominated boarding school.

Lancing college, an almost two hours drive from central London was home to President Akufo Addo in his secondary school days.

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Established in 1848 as a boys school, Lancing college prides itself as a creative and dynamic place where students are groomed to be global citizens capable of meeting all challenges.

Clearly, in the league of the well to do in the society, a term’s fees will set you back almost 12,000 Pounds. Coming from a family that wielded political influence, the fee did not stop Akufo-Addo from accessing the London school.

His father was Ghana’s third Chief Justice from 1966 to 1970 and later the non-executive President of Ghana from 1970 till 1972.

Described as hardworking in class, skilful on the field and jovial in the dormitory, two of his classmates, Richard and Nagel told Joy News’ Presidential correspondent, Elton Brobbey, the President was everything one could wish for in a friend.

“We knew him as Billy…he was clever. He was talented at sports. He wasn’t pretentious”

“One thing I remember …we were talking about people sunbathing…and he said to me, down there in the beach, there are people there hoping to look like me”

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Photos: Classmates of President Nana Akufo-Addo

Last Sunday, the now 74-years old President spent time with his old colleagues whom he had not met after finishing his A-level examination 57 years ago.

For him, a school tradition of breaking the ice during winter made him miss Ghana.

“As you saw the runners coming over the hills, you were supposed to jump in and break the ice. I must say it was on those occasions that I really thought very much of my parents for sending me here”, he said to ripples of laughter.

After completing his O’ Levels and A’Levels at Lancing,  Akufo-Addo would later return to Ghana in 1962 to teach at Accra Academy, before going to read Economics at the University of Ghana in Accra in 1964, earning a BSc(Econ) degree in 1967.

He subsequently joined Inner Temple and trained as a lawyer under the apprenticeship system known as the Inns of court, where no formal law degree was required. He was called to the English Bar (Middle Temple) in July 1971.

He was called to the Ghanaian bar in July 1975. Akufo-Addo worked with the Paris office of the U.S. law firm Coudert Brothers. In 1979, he co-founded the law firm Prempeh and Co.

Photo: Lancing College

The African leader has recently faced questions at home over whether he is well enough to run the country.
Since the start of 2017 he has spent more time in the UK than in Nigeria.
His current period of sick leave is the second this year, after a stint from January to March. The nature of his illness has not been disclosed.
“I feel I could go home, but the doctors are in charge,” Mr Buhari said in a statement. “I’ve now learnt to obey orders, rather than be obeyed.”
He added that there had been a “tremendous improvement” in his health.
Some protesters in Nigeria’s capital, Abuja, have demanded the president’s resignation this week. Others called for more transparency about his condition.

When Mr Buhari first went to London for treatment in June 2016, his office said it was for a persistent ear infection.
His main opponents in Nigeria’s 2015 election had claimed he had prostate cancer – which he denied.
Photos released by the presidency show the 74-year-old standing outdoors in sunglasses and smiling as he holds a “Get well soon” card.
Mr Buhari has appointed his deputy, Yemi Osinbajo, to carry out his duties in his absence.
The leader’s medical challenges have sparked speculation in Nigeria about whether he will be fit to seek a second term in 2019.

If he does not stand for re-election, observers say, it could prompt tensions between factions in the largely Muslim north and mostly Christian south.
The health of Nigeria’s leaders has been a sensitive topic since 2010, when President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua died in office after months of treatment overseas.

Several people were reportedly hurt after the van ploughed into a crowd outside Finsbury Park Mosque, where hate cleric Abu Hamza once preached, as they finished Ramadan evening prayers called taraweeh.

Eyewitnesses reported seeing bystanders wrestle the suspect to the floor and pin him down until officers arrived.

Others suggested that the congregation of victims were trying to save a man who had collapsed at a bus stop.

Emergency service crews were also spotted trying giving cardiac massages to the injured in a desperate bid to save them.

Twitter users claimed the victims were Muslims leaving late-night prayers being observed for the month of Ramadan.

Photo: Police were called just after midnight to reports of a vehicle in collision with pedestrians in Seven Sisters Road

Finsbury Park Mosque has undergone radical changes under new leader Mohammed Kozbar since the days when hook-handed Hamza was imam there from 1997 until 2003.

Mr Kozbar told The Sun: ‘Whoever did this, he did it to hurt people and it’s a terrorist attack.

‘We call it a terrorist attack as we called it in Manchester, Westminster and London Bridge.’

Witnesses told MailOnline that they saw two additional suspects run away once the van had stopped.

Atikur Arhman, 41, from Finsbury Park, said: ‘There was three people in there. They caught one and are looking for another two.

‘An elderly man who just came from the mosque, he just fainted and people were picking him up when the van he just sped up and ran them over when the guy was one the floor.

‘People said the driver had a gun with him.

‘It’s not safe anymore after what’s been happening. It’s not been safe to walk.

‘Two people ran away and one got taken away to the police.

Another witness added: ‘When they stopped two guys run away and with one guy people stopped him.’

‘If he’d gone for the main entrance then maybe 15 or 20 would have been killed.‘

He added he heard there had been fatalities but did not want to ‘jump to conclusions.’

A different anonymous witness said: ‘There was three people beside the van, just one van. One is tall and the other two people ran away.

‘The people finished with the mosque and were going home normally and then the van bumped into them.’

Jamal, 21, told MailOnline: ‘I think it’s terrible what happened in so many locations I don’t know if I’m going to be alive tomorrow, I’m worried what’s going to happen tomorrow, it’s scary

‘It’s not safe in London, total, 100 per cent it is not safe, I’m worried to come out of my house right now, it’s not safe.’

A Metropolitan Police helicopter was seen circling overhead as photographs posted on social media showed a huge response from the emergency services.

Dozens of police cars and vans cordoned off a large area of the normally bustling thoroughfare as stunned locals gathered at the scene.

Images on Twitter appeared to show a clean-shaven white man with black hair being detained by police officers behind a van, surrounded by a group of shouting onlookers.

The vehicle in question appears to have been rented from a company based in Wales, Pontaclun Van Hire.

A woman named Hajal said her sister witnessed the immediate aftermath of the incident.

She told LBC Radio: ‘Everyone was just running everywhere she didn’t realise what was going on at first until she people on the floor.

‘She ran to see first victim and realised it was a family friend.’

‘An old man didn’t have a pulse. Police came and took over. She said it could have been an accident.

‘At first she thought there was some sort of fight. There were 15 to 20 people hitting somebody – she didn’t realise it was the man who ran over the people.

‘She said someone was still under the van but he was breathing. The second [more seriously injured] person was family friend who at first said he couldn’t feel his legs.’

Another person who lives nearby, Ishmael, told the station: ‘I pray there regularly. I’m there right now. There’s a very close friend of mine and in a very bad critical condition.

‘I hear from the other guys that they just stand there and have a coffee.

‘The van drove to there. I had just left the area because I wasn’t feeling very well.

‘One of my friends witnessed it. He told me the van went through the people standing there. 6 or 7 people, and one Asian guy is definitely dead.

‘My friend is in bad critical condition. He was under the van. His head was bleeding.

‘Someone took a video of him. Very shocking video. He’s got family and a wife.

‘The police answered the phone and told me he’s alright. But the other friend they don’t really know his condition. They’re both in ambulances and heading to a London Hospital.

‘Something’s going to happen here one day here. Since that incident I had a feeling something was going to happen to the Mosque. We don’t have no security.

‘This is Ramadan and there was no security at all. Anyone who wants to do anything can come there. If someone wants to kill hundreds they can come there easily.’

Cynthia Vanzella said on Twitter: ‘Horrible to watch police officers doing cardiac massage at people on the floor, desperately trying to save them. I just hope they did.’

Another social media user reported: ‘Islamaphobic attack in Finsbury Park right now. A van swerved off the main road and ran over several Muslim men.’

Another witness told the BBC: ‘Very shortly after getting home form the window I started hearing a lot of yelling and screeching and a lot of chaos outside so I ran down the street to see what happened and everyone was shouting a vans hit someone.

‘People were shouting that this was a white supremacist attack people were very angry, police were very calm and kept moving people back.’

A Met spokesman said officers were called at 12.20am ‘to reports of a vehicle in collision with pedestrians’.

They added: ‘Officers are on scene with other emergency services. There are a number of casualties being worked on at the scene. There has been one person arrested.’

The incident follows two terrorist attacks in a matter of weeks at Westminster, Manchester and London Bridge.

The Muslim Council of Britain has confirmed that worshippers leaving Finsbury Park Mosque were targeted when a van ran into them, adding: ‘Our prayers are with the victims.’

London Ambulance Service Deputy Director of Operations, Kevin Bate said: ‘We were called at 12.15am to reports of a road traffic collision at Seven Sisters Road.

‘We have sent a number of ambulance crews, advance paramedics and specialist responses teams to the scene. An advance trauma team from London’s Air Ambulance has also been dispatched by car.

‘We are working closely with other members of the emergency services at the scene.

‘Our priority is to assess the level and nature of injuries and ensure those in the most need are treated first and taken to hospital.

‘More information will follow when we have it.’

The planned demonstration is to coincide with President Akufo-Addo’s visit to the United Kingdom today Friday, June 16, 2017.

The group said to be members of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) had planned to stage the protest over what it described as the heighten insecurity and crippling socio-economic conditions in the country.

UK-based Abaawa Radio’s Mugabe confirmed this to Adom News Friday.

He indicated that demonstrators are expected to gather at Central Hall, Westminster, Storey’s Gate, London, SW1H 9NH at exactly 17:00hrs.

But police in London denied the group permit to demonstrate due to the security threat to the country.

Mugabe noted that, the group said they wanted to express their frustration to the President.

President Akufo-Addo is currently on a working visit to the United Kingdom.

In what is a highly unusual move, Muslim religious leaders from different schools of Islam — both Sunni and Shia — issued a statement late Monday saying their pain at the suffering of the victims of Saturday’s attacks had led to their decision, and they called on others imams to follow suit.

“We are deeply hurt that a spate of terror attacks have been committed in our country once more by murderers who seek to gain religious legitimacy for their actions. We seek to clarify that their reprehensible actions have neither legitimacy nor our sympathy,” the statement put out by the Muslim Council of Britain (MCB), an umbrella body representing over 500 organizations, read.

“Consequently, and in light of other such ethical principles which are quintessential to Islam, we will not perform the traditional Islamic funeral prayer for the perpetrators and we also urge fellow imams and religious authorities to withdraw such a privilege. This is because such indefensible actions are completely at odds with the lofty teachings of Islam,” the statement continued.

They expressed “shock and utter disgust” at Saturday’s “cold-blooded murders,” and said the actions of the attackers “alienates them from any association with our community for whom the inviolability of every human life is the founding principle (Q.5:32).”

The 130 leaders commended London’s police and emergency services, saying, “their response exemplifies the courage, humanity and honour we must exhibit in such difficult times.”

“These vile murderers seek to divide our society and instil fear; we will ensure they fail,” the statement said. “We implore everyone to unite: we are one community. In the face of such dastardly cowardice, unlike the terrorists, we must uphold love and compassion.”

The statement was issued one day after the MCB held a press conference during which its secretary general, Harun Khan, suggested the move.

He said that while a campaign would be launched to urge mosques to increase their vigilance, “the path towards extremism is outside of the mosque and at the margins of society.”

On Saturday, three attackers rammed a car into pedestrians on London Bridge, then exited and ran into nearby Borough Market, stabbing people. Seven were killed and dozens injured in the attack, which was later claimed by the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS). Less than a week earlier, a suicide bomber blew himself up outside an Ariana Grande concert in Manchester, killing 22.

Reports say the death toll in the incident has risen to seven after three suspects were shot dead by police on Saturday June 3.

A white van hit pedestrians on London Bridge at about 22:00 BST on Saturday, then three men got out and stabbed people in nearby Borough Market.

Police said the three men were wearing fake bomb vests, and the hurt at least 48 people.

One of those hurt was a police officer who was stabbed after going to help. His injuries are not life-threatening.

Ghanaians at home became concerned, wondering if any Ghanaian in London was hurt in the incident.

But Nana Sefa Twum told Adom News said: “By and large, everyone is fine. The GUBA award was ongoing at the time the incident happened.

“Several Ghanaians in London also attended church that same time and so by and large no Ghanaian has been affected per the information we are picking up.”

Listen to Nana Sefa Twum

Meanwhile, David Baafi who is also a resident says due to the terrorists’ attack he cannot go out because he is afraid though no Ghanaian was attacked.