Tumultuous veteran Sparqlyn (Ahmmed Larweh) received a nomination for Best Ghanaian Musician at the 2025 African Performance Leadership Awards (APLA). Set for May 30 in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso, the award celebrates outstanding performers across Africa.
Honored for his solo successes (“Jump On Me”, “Your Body”, “Tumpa”) and his role as a traditional Development Chief in Manya Krobo, Sparqlyn is also recognized for community advocacy, educational scholarships, and cultural preservation . Earlier in the year, MUSIGA honored him during the Akwaaba Festival for his mentorship and impact.
The dancehall star boldly addresses critics, praising Medikal’s latest hit and calling out industry “gatekeepers” for their bias and hypocrisy.
Ghanaian dancehall heavyweight Shatta Wale has launched a fiery rebuttal against entertainment critics and media pundits who have questioned the musical relevance of rapper Medikal. In a viral video now circulating on social media, Shatta Wale passionately defended his close friend and collaborator, crediting him for one of the hottest tracks in the country right now — Shoulder.
Responding to claims that Medikal’s career has been on the decline and that he no longer produces hit songs, Shatta Wale fired back:
“You say I’m spoiling Medikal’s career and he can’t release a hit song anymore — now we hit your face with the current hottest song in Ghana, Shoulder! Yes, I’m spoiling Medikal with more hits and he’s cashing out more!”
He went on to call out what he described as “hungry entertainment gatekeepers” — individuals he believes are disconnected from the realities of the industry, yet consistently attempt to influence public opinion.
“You live in rented houses and want to advise landlords like Shatta Wale, Sarkodie, and Medikal? You’re funny,” he stated, suggesting that established artists with real-world achievements shouldn’t be lectured by people he sees as less experienced or successful.
Shatta Wale’s comments come amid renewed scrutiny on the state of Ghana’s music industry and the role of media personalities in shaping narratives around artists. For Wale, this isn’t just about defending Medikal — it’s about challenging a system that, in his view, often undermines creativity in favor of criticism.
The song Shoulder has been widely embraced by fans, with streaming numbers and online engagement showing strong momentum. Supporters argue that the track not only proves Medikal’s continued relevance but also highlights his ability to evolve with changing trends.
While critics have questioned the duo’s recent artistic choices, Shatta Wale remains firm: commercial success and fan approval are the only metrics that truly matter.
As the debate continues, one thing remains clear — Shatta Wale is standing solidly by Medikal, and Shoulder might just be the anthem that silences the doubters, at least for now.
July 31 Event to Bring Together Ghana’s Top Sports Stakeholders
Ghana will host the Ghana Sports Conference 2025 on July 31 at the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre in Accra, with the theme: “Elevate. Excel. Empower: Shaping Ghana’s Sporting Destiny.”
The event aims to bring together athletes, club owners, government officials, sponsors, and international stakeholders to discuss pressing issues in sports—ranging from infrastructure and funding to women’s participation and grassroots development.
Organized by the Ministry of Youth and Sports and supported by the National Sports Authority, the conference will feature keynote speakers from FIFA, CAF, and the International Olympic Committee.
“The time has come to think strategically about the future of our sports industry,” said Sports Minister Mustapha Ussif. “We must position Ghana as a global sports powerhouse.”
Workshops on topics such as sports entrepreneurship, digital fan engagement, and talent export will be held throughout the day. Local and international media are expected to cover the event extensively.
This landmark conference comes just ahead of Ghana’s preparation for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers and the 2027 All-Africa Games, positioning it as a catalyst for long-term planning and investment.
Ghana’s Black Queens Rise After Defeat to Beat Tanzania 4–1
The Black Queens of Ghana bounced back in style at the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), thrashing Tanzania 4–1 in their second group match to earn a spot in the quarterfinals.
After losing their opening match 2–0 to defending champions South Africa, the Queens entered the game under pressure. But the team rose to the occasion, with goals from Priscilla Adubea, Grace Asantewaa, and two from Doris Boaduwaa lighting up the Stade Abdoulaye Wade in Senegal.
Coach Nora Häuptle praised her players’ response: “We regrouped, we stayed mentally strong, and we came out to show the real Ghana. This win means everything.”
With the quarterfinals approaching, Ghana is expected to face either Nigeria or Morocco. The squad, known for its resilience and tactical play, has its eyes set on bringing the WAFCON trophy home for the first time.
The win was also an emotional lift for Ghanaians, many of whom took to social media to show support and celebrate women’s football. “This is our year!” one fan tweeted.
Kotoko Crowned MTN FA Cup Champions in Last-Minute Thriller
Kumasi Asante Kotoko are the champions of the 2025 MTN FA Cup after defeating lower-tier side Golden Kick SC in a heart-pounding final that ended 2–1 at the Accra Sports Stadium.
The game, which was a rollercoaster of emotion, saw underdogs Golden Kick take an early lead in the 24th minute. Kotoko, rattled but determined, responded with sustained pressure, finally equalizing through striker Isaac Oppong in the 67th minute.
As the clock ticked into stoppage time and penalties loomed, Kotoko’s talisman Kwame Opoku was brought down in the box, earning a last-minute penalty. He confidently converted, sealing the win and sending thousands of Kotoko fans into jubilation.
This is Kotoko’s 11th FA Cup trophy, further cementing their status as Ghana’s most decorated football club. “We fought for this. The boys showed heart, and we dedicate this win to our fans,” said Coach Prosper Ogum.
With this win, Kotoko qualify for the 2025 CAF Confederation Cup and will begin preparations for their continental campaign later this year.
Ghana Becomes Set Location for Acclaimed Nigerian Fantasy Series “Aníkúlápó”
Nigerian filmmaker and actor Kunle Afolayan is bringing international spotlight to Ghana as he prepares to shoot Season 2 of his hit Netflix series Aníkúlápó on Ghanaian soil. Scheduled to begin filming in mid‑September 2025, the project marks a significant collaboration between Ghana’s growing film industry and global streaming giant Netflix.
The fantasy epic Aníkúlápó, which explores Yoruba mythology, love, betrayal, and the supernatural, has earned acclaim for its strong storytelling and cultural resonance. Afolayan, who has been praised for reviving African folklore through modern cinema, sees Ghana as an ideal setting for the series’ mystical landscape.
“I have always admired the beauty and history of Ghana. It has everything—culture, scenery, and spirit. This is more than just a location move—it’s a bridge between Nollywood and Ghallywood,” Afolayan said in a press statement.
The Ghana Film Authority has welcomed the move, citing it as a win for tourism and industry growth. Local creatives, production assistants, and set designers are expected to be heavily involved, providing both employment and experience in international-level filmmaking.
This development is also expected to open doors for further investment into Ghana’s film scene and shine a light on untapped storytelling from the West African region.
In a statement released overnight, the White House confirmed that 79-year-old President Donald Trump has been diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency (CVI)—a circulatory condition—after noticeable leg swelling and bruising on his hand raised public concern.
Key Findings:
Comprehensive medical evaluations, including Doppler ultrasound and echocardiogram, were conducted to rule out serious health threats such as deep vein thrombosis, arterial disease, heart failure, kidney dysfunction, or any systemic illness. All results returned clear.
The leg swelling was described by medical staff as “benign and common” among older adults, with no signs of clotting or organ involvement. The bruising on Trump’s hand, officials said, stemmed from routine handshakes and his regular aspirin regimen, which can thin the blood and increase minor bruising.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt assured the public that the condition is easily manageable and poses no threat to President Trump’s overall health or ability to lead. She emphasized that Trump remains fully active and engaged in his presidential duties.
Medical experts recommend standard lifestyle adjustments such as wearing compression stockings, elevating the legs when seated, and staying physically active to maintain circulation and reduce further symptoms.
While CVI is a chronic condition, it is considered non-life-threatening and treatable with proper care. The announcement aims to calm speculation and reinforce transparency regarding the President’s health.
Nana Agradaa—born Patricia Oduro Koranteng—and best known as a former fetish priestess turned evangelist, continues to express defiance in the wake of grim accusations and the recent closure of her Heaven Way Church by Ghana’s Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO).
EOCO executed a raid and sealed Agradaa’s premises, citing concerns that the church allegedly acted as a front for illicit, money-doubling activities. Inspired by her past as a promoter of the controversial “Sika Gari” ritual—where adherents believed their contributions would be miraculously multiplied—authorities now argue that her operations may have violated anti-fraud regulations.
Despite firm governmental measures, Agradaa has taken to public platforms, vehemently denying any wrongdoing. She insists her church is legitimate and effectively serving its congregation. She attributes the actions against her to her high-profile influence and controversial stance, claiming persecution rather than prosecution.
Matters intensified when attention shifted to her ex-husband—widely referred to as her “baby daddy”—who is alleged to have stolen approximately GH₵14 million from the estate of the late John Kumah. Kumah, a prominent businessman and husband to Apostle Lilian Kumah, passed away, reportedly leaving unresolved financial dealings. The ex-husband stands accused of exploiting his closeness to Agradaa to divert funds belonging to the Kumah estate.
A social media update from Yencom Ghana highlighted that Kumah’s widow has officially dragged Agradaa’s ex-partner into court over the missing monies, alleging deceit and misappropriation.
While EOCO zeroes in on Agradaa’s church, questions linger over her ex-husband’s legal fate. Accusations suggest he conspired to appropriate funds meant for Kumah’s estate, purportedly through Agradaa’s network of church associates.
Adding to Agradaa’s legal troubles, she is no stranger to controversy. Her past “Sika Gari” scheme and unlicensed TV stations—Thunder TV and Ice1 TV—were raided in 2021, resulting in convictions for fraudulent advertising and broadcasting offenses. She was fined GH₵46,000.
Critics argue that the current scrutiny is a consequence of her history of exploiting spiritual authority for profit. Supporters, however, view her as a vocal figure who simply refuses silence. Regardless of perspective, the EOCO’s closure of Heaven Way Church marks a dramatic escalation.
As investigations unfold, Ghana’s public awaits clarity. Legal experts emphasize that the rule of law must prevail, regardless of a person’s influence. Agradaa’s firm rejection of the accusations—calling them politically and socially motivated—sets the stage for a contentious legal battle with implications reaching far beyond her congregation.
1. Breakthrough Sophomore Album – Iron Boy (April 3, 2025)
Black Sherif’s second studio album, Iron Boy, dropped on 3 April 2025 via Blacko Management and Empire. The 15-track project blends hip-hop, Afrobeat, and highlife while exploring themes of resilience, vulnerability, and triumph. Critics and fans alike praised its storytelling depth and musical ambition—from the lead single “So It Goes” (featuring Fireboy DML) to tracks produced by Joker Nharnah, Dystinkt Beats, and SamSney.
2. Trailblazing Chart Milestones
Iron Boy became the first Ghanaian album to spend two straight weeks on the Apple Music Top 50 (USA) and set a record for most daily streams by a Ghanaian project on Spotify, surpassing 2 million streams. It peaked at number 10 on Billboard’s US World Albums chart and climbed to number 5 on Nigeria’s TurnTable Albums.
This marked a major achievement, making Black Sherif the first Ghanaian artist to have both his debut and sophomore albums chart on Billboard’s World Albums—with The Villain I Never Was debuting at number 12 in 2022.
3. Hit Single: “So It Goes” ft. Fireboy DML
Released on 30 January 2025, “So It Goes” served as the lead single for Iron Boy. The track features a collaboration with Nigerian star Fireboy DML and showcased Black Sherif’s ability to merge African sounds with emotional grit. The visualizer, produced by SamSney and Louddaaa, captured broad acclaim across Ghana and Nigeria.
4. Major Award Recognition
In May 2025, Black Sherif earned his first-ever nomination at the BET Awards, being named in the Best International Act category—representing Ghana as the nation’s sole nominee. He was pitched against global artists including Ayra Starr, Rema, Tyla, and Ezra Collective.
5. Streaming Triumph on Boomplay & Spotify
Black Sherif also became the first Ghanaian artiste to exceed 500 million streams on Boomplay. The platform celebrated this milestone in August 2024, highlighting the popularity of songs like “Kilos Milos,” “First Sermon,” and “Second Sermon.”
In December 2024, Spotify named him Ghana’s most-streamed artist for the year, surpassing Stonebwoy, Kidi, and Shatta Wale. His track “Wotowoto” by Odumodublvck & Black Sherif topped charts locally.
6. Cultural Influence & Mentorship
While promoting Iron Boy, Black Sherif publicly endorsed Ghanaian emerging talents AratheJay and Gonaboy as future innovators in highlife. In an April 2025 interview with NME, he praised their ability to redefine genre expectations. On Apple Music’s The Dotty Show, Sherif highlighted AratheJay’s remix of “Jesus Christ” and labelled him “the future of highlife/hiplife.”
7. Global Touring: The Iron Boy Tour
To promote the album, Black Sherif embarked on a North American tour from 4–17 April 2025, hitting six cities across the U.S. and Canada including New York, Chicago, Toronto, and Los Angeles. He plans further shows in Europe slated for later this year.
✨ Final Thoughts
From critical acclaim to chart dominance, Black Sherif’s journey through Iron Boy has redefined what it means to be a Ghanaian artist on the global stage. His blend of drill, highlife, and raw lyricism continues to resonate across Africa and beyond. With award nods, packed international tours, and a mentorship role for Ghana’s next generation, he’s cementing his legacy as one of Africa’s most authentic voices
The ‘Things Fall Apart’ Hitmaker Is Back With a Cross-Border Banger That Has Ghana and Nigeria Buzzing
Ghanaian highlife and hiplife sensation Kofi Kinaata has once again stolen the spotlight—but this time with a surprising twist. The multi-award-winning artist has teamed up with Nigerian Afrobeat sensation Rema for a brand-new song titled “Sɛ Me Bo” which was officially released on July 16, 2025. The collaboration, which no one saw coming, has instantly gone viral across West Africa.
The song blends Kofi Kinaata’s trademark storytelling lyrics with Rema’s smooth Afrobeat delivery, creating a sound that is both nostalgic and fresh. In less than 24 hours after its release, “Sɛ Me Bo” has climbed to the number one spot on Apple Music Ghana and is trending on TikTok with over 80,000 user-created videos already using the sound.
Fans were left in awe after both artists teased a snippet of the video on Instagram. The visuals, shot in Cape Coast and Lagos, feature stunning beachside scenes, vibrant local fashion, and a plot that touches on love, betrayal, and redemption. Many say it’s not just a song—it’s an experience.
Social media has been set ablaze with reactions. On X (formerly Twitter), the hashtag #KinaataRema is trending, with fans from both Ghana and Nigeria applauding the unity between the two stars. Some comments even suggest this may be the collaboration of the year.
Kinaata, in a recent interview with Hitz FM, explained how the song came to life: “I’ve always admired Rema’s energy. I sent him the idea, and within days, he sent back his vocals. The chemistry was instant.”
Rema also praised Kinaata, calling him “one of the most genuine voices in African music.”
Industry insiders believe this release is just the beginning of more collaborations between Ghanaian and Nigerian artists, a trend that continues to bridge cultural gaps and expand Africa’s global music influence.
Whether you’re a fan of Kinaata’s lyrical depth or Rema’s youthful energy, “Sɛ Me Bo” is the song you don’t want to miss this summer.
Stay tuned as more details unfold about the duo’s rumored joint EP.
