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Cocoa farmers to receive free fertilizer in May 

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A Cocoa Farm

More than 11,000 cocoa farmers in the Nkawie Cocoa District of the Atwima Nwabiagya South Municipality are expected to receive free fertilizer from May this year.

Nii Noi Kootey, the Municipal Cocoa Officer, who announced this, said the intervention forms part of COCOBOD’s Free Fertilizers Year (FFY) programme, which seeks to support cocoa farmers with fertilizer inputs to enhance farm productivity and boost national cocoa output.

Speaking at a meeting with Mr Wisdom Osei Boamah, the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) of Atwima Nwabiagya South, at Nkawie, Nii Noi Kootey explained that the initiative was designed to strengthen the cocoa sector by increasing yields and revenue while improving the livelihoods of cocoa farmers.

He noted that beneficiary farmers would be selected from Atwima Nwabiagya South, parts of Nwabiagya North, Kwanwoma, Atwima Mponua and Amansie West districts.

Each farmer will receive three bags of granula – a powdered fertilizer – per acre, as well as an appropriate quantity of folia liquid fertilizer.

According to him, the support targets farmers with matured and productive cocoa farms within the operational areas of the Nkawie Cocoa District.

Mr Boamah commended COCOBOD for supporting government’s efforts to increase national cocoa productivity.

He described cocoa as the economic backbone of the country, with significant benefits for rural communities, urban dwellers, and the international market.

He reaffirmed government’s commitment to improving cocoa production and quality, as well as the broader economic welfare of cocoa farmers.

The MCE highlighted factors such as good road networks, pricing systems, market access, and provision of farm inputs as essential considerations in supporting cocoa farmers.

He also urged farmers to adhere to agronomic best practices provided by Cocoa Extension Agents to ensure the success of the programme.

GNA

Government places temporary hold on Appiatse building permits 

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The new- Appiatse- township

The Government has placed a temporary hold on the approval of building and development permits in parts of  Appiatse, a community in the Prestea Huni-Valley Municipality, which was destroyed by an explosion in 2022.

The decision was part of efforts to help complete phase three of the Appiatse Redevelopment Project, which was intended to provide safe housing and essential services for families, who were affected by the incident.

This was announced in a press statement issued by the Municipal Information Services Officer for Prestea Huni-Valley Municipal Assembly, Madam Matilda Ansah, on behalf of the assembly and copied to the Ghana News Agency (GNA), Tarkwa.

It said the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources had indicated that the land identified for the next phase of the project must be protected to ensure the smooth and timely completion of the redevelopment.

The statement added that, “For this reason, no new private developments will be permitted within the designated redevelopment area until further notice.

“The Municipal Assembly understands that this directive may affect some individuals and wishes to assure residents that the measure is temporary and aimed at serving the greater good of the community,” the statement added.

The assembly has, therefore, appealed to landowners, developers and residents to exercise patience and cooperate fully with the process.

The statement further assured residents that the government was committed to rebuilding Appiatse in a manner that was safe, orderly, and beneficial to all those who were affected.

It further called on community leaders, traditional authorities and all stakeholders to support the initiative.

The statement encouraged residents who needed clarification to visit or contact the Information Services Department or the Physical Planning Department for guidance.

GNA

Government’s plan to raise GH¢10bn through bond issuance lauded

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Green Tax Youth Africa

The Green Tax Youth Africa (GTYA), a tax advocacy and civil society organisation, has commended the government’s plan to raise GHS10 billion through bond issuance, to support infrastructure projects in Ghana.

Mr Benaiah Nii Addo, the Executive Director of the GTYA, described the initiative as timely and strategically important, as the state faced constrained fiscal space, rising development needs and an urgent climate gap.

In a statement made available to the Ghana News Agency, the GTYA proposed some complementary reforms to ensure that the GHS10 billion bond issuance intention supported both economic and sustainable objectives.

The Executive Director of the GTYA indicated that, the GHS10 billion bond issuance plan was an opportunity for the country to calibrate its financing architecture away from purely conventional bonds.

However, he stressed the need for the government to outline a clear, sustainable financial framework, aligned with international best practices like the International Capital Market Association Green Bond Principles, to accompany the initiative.

Green bonds designed with strong governance frameworks, clear use of proceed criteria, social inclusion safeguard, can directly support women, youth, coastal communities, informal sector workers and others.

According to Mr Benaiah Nii Addo, global experience showed that well-structured bond instruments could unlock significant capital for development without deepening fiscal vulnerabilities.

“The Philippines, for instance, successfully raised USD2.75 billion through global bond issuance, including sustainability and green alignment instruments,’ he stated.

This act, according to him, was also replicated by Chile, Indonesia, Nigeria, Kenya and South Africa and it attracted stronger investor confidence, while financing infrastructure, climate resilience and social protection priorities.

Mr Benaiah Nii Addo disclosed that, the GTYA’s green bond analytical work in Ghana indicated that, green bonds could serve as a credible tool to finance climate-resilient infrastructure, climate-smart agriculture and nature-based solutions.

Additionally, green bonds could ensure that, the proceeds were explicitly ring fenced for projects that benefited the poor and marginalised communities, who were disproportionately exposed to climate shocks.

The GTYA proposed that, the government should pursue the institutionalisation of mandatory Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) disclosure for all large fixed-income issuances.

This is intended to align with Ghana’s capital market with global benchmark.

Again, Mr Addo suggested that, there should be transparent allocation and independent verification of green bond proceeds to enhance credibility and investor trust.

Furthermore, he said pension funds, insurance companies, and local asset managers must be encouraged to allocate a share of portfolios to sustainable bonds, aligning long-term domestic savings with national development goals.

Finally, the GTYA appealed to the government to use existing platform such as Ghana’s Biodiversity Finance Initiative (BIOFIN) to coordinate sustainable financial strategies and track impact.

The Executive Director of the GTYA emphasised that, the reforms, when duly executed, would enhance investor confidence, and reduce greenwashing risks, while ensuring that Ghana’s bond programme delivered measurable development impact beyond short-term budget support.

GNA

 

Akabenezer: Redefining local comedy and the case for a National Creative Policy

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Frema Adunyame, Author

In the evolving landscape of Ghana’s entertainment industry, few names have risen as rapidly and as remarkably as Akabenezer, popularly known as Dr. Likee.

His comic style — rooted deeply in Kumasi street culture, everyday Ghanaian experiences, and the expressive vibrancy of the Asante language — has reshaped audience expectations and redefined local digital entertainment.

At a time when the country has long sought a sustainable, locally produced comedy series capable of capturing both authenticity and mass appeal, Akabenezer has emerged as an answer.

Akabenezer’s journey is a testament to the power of cultural relevance. Through short, engaging, and hilariously relatable skits, he has become one of the most dominant local content creators in Ghana.

His drama pieces — often shot in the bustling suburbs of Kumasi — reflect scenes that resonate deeply with Ghanaian daily life: the struggles of survival, the humour embedded in communal living, and the interactions that define the typical Ghanaian neighbourhood.

He draws heavily from Asante idioms, local wit, and the raw, unfiltered expressions common within Kumasi communities. This grounded approach has not only made his skits popular but has also allowed Ghanaians across different regions and the diaspora to reconnect with the textures of authentic homegrown humour.

With millions of followers across TikTok, YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram, Akabenezer has demonstrated the power of social media as a democratizing force in content creation. Without a major production house, national broadcaster, or corporate sponsorship behind him at the start, he managed to build a content empire from the streets — and audiences simply responded.

One reason for Akabenezer’s accelerating rise is his collaborative approach. His platform has introduced a new generation of actors, comedians, and storytellers who feature prominently in his skits. Young talents like Shifu, Kyekyeku, 39/40, Papa Kumasi, and many others have found visibility through their involvement in what has organically become a production team.

This model mirrors a micro-creative economy where lighting personnel, editors, camera operators, costume designers, and upcoming actors earn a living through consistent content creation. Akabenezer’s team has effectively created an informal yet impactful “social media Kumawood,” reviving interest in local drama production and inspiring similar creative collectives across the country.

In essence, his exploits demonstrate that Ghana’s creative industry has untapped potential to employ thousands — even without huge budgets or government intervention — if given the right policy support and digital infrastructure.

What sets Akabenezer apart is his insistence on staying true to local culture. His heavy use of Twi, particularly the Asante dialect, has proven that language is not a barrier to entertainment consumption. Just like Nollywood popularised pidgin English and regional Nigerian expressions, Akabenezer is helping to project Asante humour to non-Twi speakers and even non-Ghanaians who follow his content for the vibrant expressions and comedic timing.

His stories often highlight:

* Street survival culture
* Moral lessons presented through satire
* The hustle and unpredictability of urban life
* Themes of loyalty, betrayal, love, greed, and opportunity

These narratives reflect the heart of Ghanaian society, making him a cultural ambassador in his own right. His work preserves the essence of Ghanaian humour and serves as a living archive of contemporary local life.

Why Ghana Needs a National Creative Arts Policy That Supports Talents Like Akabenezer

Despite the evident contributions of local comedians and content creators, Ghana still lacks a comprehensive and implementable policy framework to harness the full potential of its creative industry. The rise of Akabenezer highlights the urgent need for policies that deliberately:

  1. Provide Funding and Production Grants
Creators like Akabenezer often rely on personal funds and support from collaborators. Government-backed grants or partnerships could boost content quality, scale up production, and enable more creators to break into the space.
  2. Support Digital Content Creators
Social media comedy is no longer a hobby; it is a multi-million-dollar industry worldwide. Ghana must create tax-friendly environments, digital monetization incentives, and reduced data costs to encourage digital creators.
  3. Strengthen Intellectual Property Protection
Piracy remains a major problem. Clear regulations and stronger enforcement mechanisms will protect creators and ensure they earn from their work.
  4. Invest in Talent Development and Training
Film schools, creative centres, and digital arts incubators should be established or expanded to help emerging creators refine their craft.
  5. Build Infrastructure for Local Content Production
Studios, editing labs, and community theatres will significantly improve content production quality and boost employment.
  6. Promote Ghanaian Content Internationally
Akabenezer’s brand is exportable. Ghana needs deliberate international cultural exchange programmes and digital partnerships to push local creatives onto global platforms.

How Ghana Can Benefit Strategically from Talents Like Akabenezer

Ghana stands to gain immensely if it recognizes the economic and cultural power of expanding its creative sector.

– Job Creation: Local content production creates employment for actors, directors, editors, costume designers, marketers, and more.

– Tourism Growth: Just as Nigeria leveraged Nollywood to promote its culture worldwide, Ghana can use comedy and drama to boost tourism and international curiosity.

– Cultural Preservation: Local comedy strengthens the use of Twi and other Ghanaian languages, ensuring cultural continuity.

– National Branding: Creators like Akabenezer present Ghana as a vibrant, humorous, and culturally rich country, strengthening the nation’s global image.

– Youth Empowerment: Millions of young people now see content creation as a viable career path, reducing unemployment pressures.

Conclusion

Akabenezer’s rise is more than a personal success story — it is a case study in what Ghana’s creative landscape can achieve when talent meets authenticity and digital innovation. His comedic exploits have spotlighted the rich storytelling potential embedded in Ghana’s suburbs, particularly Kumasi, while proving that local content can achieve global traction.

His journey makes a compelling argument for why Ghana must urgently implement a robust creative arts policy that nurtures, protects, and promotes local talents. With the right structures in place, Ghana can unlock a thriving creative economy that boosts employment, strengthens cultural identity, and positions the country as a major player in Africa’s entertainment renaissance.

By: Frema Adunyame, Broadcast Journalist, Head of Events & Partnerships 
Channel One TV and Citi FM

“I was going to be a Pastor until I just ran away for no reason” – Tonto Dikeh

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Tonto Dikeh

Famous Nollywood Actress, Tonto Dikeh has opened up about her long-standing relationship with God, revealing that she felt a strong spiritual calling from a young age.

In a livestream interview, Tonto said her connection to faith began in her teenage years.

“I have always had this calling right from when I was a child. I’m 19. I was going to be a pastor until I just ran away for no reason,” she said.

She explained that even after stepping away from that path, she remained close to the church and continued to grow spiritually.

“I have been in church since I left high school. So I’ve known God intimately. I’ve known God intensely for as long as I was a child,” she stated.

Tonto also reflected on the challenges she has faced in her life and career, describing them as part of her spiritual growth.

“If you watch what has happened in my life, it’s not ordinary. Anybody that may walk my shoes may not have survived,” she said.

According to her, these experiences helped shape her into the person she is today.

“God called me for something. He led me to go through all of these things to come out of the fire brand that I am today,” Tonto added.

She noted that her journey has strengthened her faith and deepened her understanding of her purpose.

Mercy Johnson allegedly causes arrest of Angela Okorie

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Mercy Johnson and Angela Okorie

Mercy Johnson has allegedly caused the arrest of fellow Nollywood actress Angela Okorie over a cybercrime matter.

Okorie was reportedly taken into custody at her Lagos residence on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, by operatives from the Nigeria Police Force Cybercrime Centre in Abuja.

She spent the night at Yaba Panti Police Station before being flown to Abuja early Wednesday for court proceedings.

Angela Okorie, originally from Cotonou in Benin Republic, is a Nigerian actress known for movies such as Sincerity, Holy Serpent, and Divorce Not Allowed.

She began acting in 2009 and has appeared in more than 80 films. Mercy Johnson Okojie, from Delta State, is a veteran actress with over 150 films to her name, including 30 Days in Atlanta, Thy Will Be Done, and Something Like Gold.

Journalist Seun Oloketuyi confirmed the arrest on Wednesday, noting that it is connected to a cybercrime case involving Mercy Johnson.

The development follows Johnson’s earlier statement that cyberbullying her and her family would not be tolerated in 2026. Court proceedings are now underway in Abuja to address the matter.

Peanut Allergy; Causes, Symptoms & Diagnosis

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Peanuts

What Is a Peanut Allergy?

You have a peanut allergy when your body’s immune system overreacts to peanuts. Normally, your immune system helps protect you from germs and other harmful substances. But if you have a peanut allergy, your body responds to the proteins in peanuts as though they’re dangerous. Your immune system works hard to fight them off, which triggers an allergic reaction.

A peanut isn’t actually a nut. It’s a legume and belongs to the same family as peas and lentils. A peanut allergy is different than a tree nut allergy. Still, up to 40% of people who are allergic to peanuts are also allergic to tree nuts such as almonds, cashews, and walnuts.

Peanuts are often hard to avoid. They can sneak their way into recipes or packaged food items. But even a trace of peanuts can be harmful. That’s why people with peanut allergies need to be extra careful about what they eat.

More than 6 million Americans are allergic to peanuts. Roughly 1 in every 50 kids has a peanut allergy, making it the most common type of food allergy in children. Some grow out of it, but others have a peanut allergy for their whole lives. It’s the third most common food allergy among adults.

It’s not clear why, but reported cases of peanut allergy have increased in recent years. A 2017 study found the number of children with peanut allergies had increased by 21% since 2010.

Peanut Allergy Causes

When you eat or inhale peanuts, your immune system makes antibodies called immunoglobulin E (IgE). These antibodies travel to cells that release chemicals called histamines. The histamines trigger the allergy symptoms you notice.

Doctors don’t know exactly why some people have immune responses to peanuts and others don’t. Some things that can increase your risk of peanut allergies are:
Your age. Peanut allergies are more common in toddlers and babies. As you grow, so does your digestive system. That’s why older people are less prone to peanut allergy reactions.
Other allergies. If you’re allergic to other foods, you’re more likely to also have a peanut allergy. People with other types of allergies, like hay fever, also have a higher risk.
Family history. You may be more likely to have a peanut allergy if someone in your family has one.
Eczema. Eczema is a condition that causes dry and itchy skin. It can raise your risk for peanut allergies.
Prior peanut allergies. Some people outgrow peanut allergies, but they could come back when you’re an adult if you had them as a kid.
Peanut Allergy Symptoms

Most often, you’ll notice signs of a reaction within 2 hours of eating peanuts. Your symptoms may be different each time. They can range from mild to life-threatening.

Some common symptoms of peanut allergies are:

  • Wheezing or trouble breathing
  • Coughing
  • Tightness in your throat
  • Itching or tingling in your mouth or throat
  • Itchy, watery, or swollen eyes
  • Runny nose
  • Digestive problems, like belly pain, vomiting, nausea, or diarrhea
  • Hives, red spots, or swelling on your skin
  • Anxiety

Peanut allergy and anaphylaxis symptoms

Sometimes, peanut allergies trigger a very serious reaction called anaphylaxis. This can happen even if you’ve had only mild reactions before.

Some signs of anaphylaxis are:

  • Your airways close up.
  • You notice swelling in your lips, tongue, or throat.
  • Your blood pressure drops to dangerous levels.
  • Your pulse is extremely fast.
  • You feel dizzy or pass out.

Anaphylaxis is a medical emergency. You’ll need immediate treatment and a visit to the emergency room. If you or someone you’re with has symptoms of anaphylaxis, use an epinephrine auto-injector pen right away and call 911.

Peanut Allergy Diagnosis

To diagnose a peanut allergy, your doctor will first ask about your symptoms and medical history. Then, they may suggest a physical exam along with:

  • A food and symptoms diary. You may track what you eat, your symptoms, and the medicines you take.
  • A skin test. This can be used to diagnose a peanut allergy and rule out other types of allergies. A tiny amount of peanut extract is placed on the skin of your arm or back. Then, a doctor or nurse pricks your skin with a needle. If you’re allergic, a reaction will show up as a raised bump or rash.
  • A blood test. A blood test looks for IgE antibodies in your blood, which are a sign of an allergic reaction.
  • An oral food challenge. You’ll eat very small amounts of peanuts while in your doctor’s office, with medication on hand to treat you in case of a reaction. The amount of peanuts you eat will increase over time so the doctor can watch your response.

Living With a Peanut Allergy

It’s important to avoid peanuts as much as possible when you have a peanut allergy.

Living with a peanut allergy means staying away from peanuts, which can be tricky.

For one thing, you’ll need to get good at reading food labels. U.S. law requires all packaged foods sold in this country to say whether they contain peanuts.

Credit: webmd

CALLED TO HOLINESS

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Dr. Joyce Rosalind Aryee, Executive Director, Salt and Light Ministries

“But just as He who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: ‘Be holy, because I am holy.’” – 1 Peter 1:15 – 16

Introduction

As Christians, our goal is perfect obedience to all that God requires. Our desire is to exercise faith in every area of life and to obey God in absolutely everything. This life of perfect obedience is what the Bible calls holiness.

Yet the word holiness often makes many of us uncomfortable. Many believers tend to shy away from it, leaving it to certain groups they consider more spiritual or more serious. To many, holiness seems like an extreme condition, something admirable but unrealistic, something we are not really expected to attain.

Some people even suggest that there is no real hope of growing in holiness. There are those who excuse ongoing sin by calling it a weakness and claiming that God understands. Sometimes this attitude is insincere and used as a cover for disobedience. Other times it comes from sincere believers who have struggled repeatedly and grown discouraged. After failing again and again, they begin to believe that victory is impossible and that they must simply live with certain sins.

Sadly, believers are sometimes given the impression that they should not expect much growth. They are told that a little improvement is enough and that serious transformation should not be expected. But this is not the teaching of Scripture. God’s command is clear and consistent.

“Be holy, because I, the Lord your God, am holy.” Leviticus 19:2. Holiness is not presented in Scripture as an option. It is God’s requirement for His people.

 

Holiness as Singleness of Heart

Jesus placed great emphasis on holiness. He Himself was holy, and He called His followers to holiness. The Beatitudes in the Sermon on the Mount reveal His view of the Christian life. When Jesus said, “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God” in Matthew 5:8, He was not speaking only about freedom from impure thoughts. He was speaking about singleness of heart.

“The pure in heart” are those whose hearts are not divided. Sin occurs when a believer is torn between two loyalties and chooses the wrong one. A victorious Christian life requires a heart fully committed to God.

Jesus explained this clearly in Matthew 6:22 – 24 when He said that if the eye is healthy, the whole body is full of light, but if the eye is unhealthy, the whole body is full of darkness. He then concluded that no one can serve two masters. A person will either be devoted to one and despise the other.

Holiness, therefore, means having a single focus and an undivided loyalty to God.

Jesus Himself was tempted as deeply and seriously as any human being, yet He never sinned. It was not simply His divine nature that kept Him from sin, but the singleness of His purpose. He had only one commitment, to do the will of God. He never allowed a secondary desire to compete for His loyalty. Because of this, temptation had no place to settle in His heart.

This is the true meaning of holiness: a life directed by one purpose and one allegiance.

 

The Goal That Produces Holiness

If a believer is to grow in sanctification(holiness), there must be a clear goal. That goal must be the same one that governed the life of Jesus: doing the will of God. When a believer commits to that single goal, he can make real progress in holiness through the help of Scripture and the power of the Holy Spirit.

God is holy, and His will for us is holiness. He calls us to reflect His character. When we consider God’s holiness, it becomes astonishing. God has existed for eternity without a single moment of impurity or failure. Yet He calls His people to be holy as He is holy.

God would not command something that is impossible without also making provision for it. His grace, mercy and love include everything needed for obedience.

Some people think that God tolerates certain sins and excuses repeated failures. But Scripture does not present God as tolerant of sin. Instead, He calls His people to transformation and provides the means for it.

 

Christ Our Sanctification

1 Corinthians 1:30 explains how holiness becomes possible for us. It tells us that Christ has become for us righteousness, holiness and redemption. This means that sanctification is not something we achieve by our own effort. It is something we receive through Christ.

Jesus did not die only to save us from the consequences of sin, but to save us from the power of sin itself. The cross deals with every part of salvation: justification, sanctification and final glorification.

Many believers wrongly assume that Christ justifies them, but that sanctification is their own responsibility. This leads to frustration and repeated failure. People try hard, make promises and still fall again, then conclude that victory is impossible.

But Scripture teaches that we are sanctified by faith, just as we are justified by faith. Christ is not only our Savior but also our Sanctifier.

 

Elected to Be Holy

In Ephesians 1:4, Scripture declares that God chose us in Christ before the foundation of the world to be holy and blameless in His sight. This means that holiness is not merely encouraged. It is the very purpose for which we were chosen.

God did not choose us only to forgive us. He chose us to transform us.

The idea of election means that holiness is not optional for the believer. Just as an elected leader cannot choose not to hold office, a believer cannot claim freedom to live in sin. Though a believer may fail to live according to God’s will, the calling to holiness remains firm.

Real progress in holiness begins when we agree with God’s purpose. When we accept that we are chosen to be holy, then our only rightful choice is obedience.

Romans 6:11 instructs believers to consider themselves dead to sin and alive to God in Christ. This is not just a feeling but a decision of faith. It is choosing daily to live according to the new identity we have received in Christ.

This is not a single emotional experience but a daily commitment. Each day we must refuse to give place to the old sinful nature and choose to live by the new life we have received in Christ.

 

Conclusion

Holiness is not an unreachable spiritual ideal reserved for a few. It is God’s clear calling for every believer. It does not come through personal effort, but through faith in Christ who is our righteousness and our sanctification.

When believers accept that they are chosen for holiness and commit to living for God’s will alone, real transformation becomes possible. Holiness is not about perfection without struggle, but about an undivided heart that continually chooses obedience.

God has not only commanded holiness, He has also provided everything needed to live it. Through Christ, by faith and by daily surrender, believers can grow in sanctification and walk in victory. The call to holiness is ultimately a call to live fully for God, with a heart that is completely His.

  • This article is adapted from and based on teachings by Richard Owen Roberts, from the book “Practical Christianity” and messages on Called to Holiness. The insights shared are drawn from his biblical reflections on sanctification and the Christian life.

Stay Blessed!

 

Please note that the preaching program on Sunny 88.7 FM – Tuesdays at 5:30 am has been temporarily put on hold. However, you can to join us on Asempa 94.7 FM – Sundays at 5:30 am and YFM 107.9 – Sundays at 6:30 am for our Radio Bible Study, as well as on Sunny 88.7 FM every Sunday at 3:30 pm for Hymns and Their Stories.

Feature: Akosua Serwaa, What Again?

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Africanus Owusu Ansah (Hot Issues)

Common sense should be common to everybody. From the Aristotelian philosophy (Greek) of “koine aisthesis” and Latin “sensus communis”, the age old concept gave way to the 18th Century Enlightenment understanding of those plain, self-evident truths or conventional wisdom that need no wisdom, no sophistication to grasp and no proof to accept precisely because they accorded so well with the basic intellectual capacities and experiences of the whole social body. This concept debated far and wide dictates that misunderstandings, conflicts, battles, wars should come to an end.

Coming home, the legal framework accepts this commonsensical understanding; hence its place in the “rules” guiding ethical legal behaviour.

Every lawyer in Ghana is familiar with Order 1 r 1(2) of the High Court (Civil Procedure) Rules, 2004 (C.I. 47), which states: “These rules shall be interpreted and applied so as to achieve speedy and effective justice, avoid delays and unnecessary expense, and ensure that as far as possible, all matters in dispute between parties may be completely, effectively and finally determined and multiplicity of proceedings concerning any of such matters avoided.”

This notwithstanding, we Asantes have a well-established cultural norm; respect for the dead and his family; the key role of an Abusuapanin in a funeral setting; and the belief that the dead (and our ancestors) hover around the living.

A lot of things have gone on since the departure of the late Kwadwo Fosuh (Daddy Lumba) to paradise or the underworld; The burial of the late Daddy Lumba; the final funeral rites and the judgment by Her Ladyship Dorinda Smith Arthur on Friday 28th day of November, 2025.

Akosua Serwaa Fosuh’s lawyers sent Abusuapanin Kofi Owusu, Priscilla Ofori (Odo Broni) and Transitions Funeral Home to court seeking among 4 reliefs: (1) An order of this Honourable Court declaring that the Plaintiff is the only surviving spouse of the late Charles Kwadwo Fosuh a.k.a. Daddy Lumba; (4) An order restraining the 2nd Defendant from carrying herself as the surviving spouse of the late Charles Kwadwo Fosuh a.k.a. Daddy Lumba.

In an erudite judgment, prefaced by the Biblical quotation of 2 Corinthians 13:8 “We can do nothing against the truth, but for the truth”, We could  add 5th BCE Socratic quote by Greek philosopher Parmenides: “What is, is; what is not, is not.” the learned judge ruled that: (1) The Plaintiff was customarily married to the deceased Charles Kwadwo Fosuh a.k.a. Daddy Lumba in 1991 in Ghana; (2) The 2nd Defendant was customarily married to the deceased Charles Kwadwo Fosuh a.k.a. Daddy Lumba in 2010 in Ghana; (3) I declare that the Plaintiff and the 2nd Defendant are the surviving spouses of the deceased Charles Kwadwo Fosuh a.k.a. Daddy Lumba.

At the funeral at Kumasi Sports Stadium on 13th December, 2025, the second widow (Odo Broni) was present and so were the children of Akosua Serwaa (Calvin Kwadwo Fosuh, Nana Ama, Denise … indeed all the 11 children of Daddy Lumba). What should this tell the world? Meanwhile, Akosua Serwaa was in Germany doing what she alone knows about? Disgusting, to say the least.

Then the “Legal Wife” came from Germany arriving at Kotoka International Airport. Given the controversy surrounding Daddy Lumba’s death and after; the hype given after his death; the controversies; the court cases; the rigmarole of the drama; curses; going to pacify the gods at Manhyia Palace; it was not surprising that a heavy crowd lay waiting on January 9, 2026. It was caution thrown to the winds — a massive crowd, a tumultuous aspect. Was it sporadic or pre-arranged? And we expected to see a “weeping” widow. Rather, we saw a grinning widow waving to acknowledge a warm welcome in a top-open vehicle — Akosua Serwaa displaying a gargantuan banner handed over to her by Papa Shee.

The statement from Akosua Serwaa read: “I wish to express my heartfelt and profound gratitude to Team Legal Wives for their immense and unwavering support throughout this journey. Your solidarity, prayers, advocacy, and love have strengthened me in ways words cannot fully capture. The unity you have shown stands as a testament …” to truth, justice, and the power of collective support…”

Who is Papa Shee and what is he? Some say he was a dancer in Daddy Lumba’s group; some say he was a friend of Daddy Lumba’s; some say he was the “boy-boy” of Daddy Lumba and now Akosua Serwaa; some say he is the brain behind all the “troubles” of Akosua Serwaa… Ghanaians can “talk”.

Some people paint a gloomy picture of Papa Shee and the way he was sacked from Lumba’s house when Lumba was recuperating at home… he has got the title “evangelist” attached to his name, so people should be careful when they address Papa Shee…and who made the gigantic “Certificate of Marriage”? An unknown person?

And Akosua Serwaa arrived at Prempeh I Airport in Kumasi see the car she was in? The sluice gate has been widely opened for all kinds of allegations, innuendos, invectives and comments, mostly negative against Akosuah Serwaah. One may know the putrid mouth of some of the people on social media. The “challenge between Afia Schwarzenegger (supporter of Odo Broni) and Lady Black Witch (supporter of legal wife: Akosua Serwaah).

People doubt the fidelity of Akosua Serwaah, claiming the unproven allegation of her flirting in Germany.

The “search” conducted at the Registry of  Probate and Administration Division of the High Court proved that no will was filed by Daddy Lumba. All Daddy Lumba’s assets, including residential houses, commercial buildings and parcels of land situated at various parts of the country will fall under the Intestate Succession Law.

Then it comes to the application for Letters of Administration to administer the estate of Daddy Lumba, filed on 24th December, 2025. The application was made by Akosua Serwaah Fosuh, Charlyn Fosuh, Ernestina Fosuh a.k.a. Akosua Brempomaa. It emerged that Charlyn Fosuh had no knowledge of the affidavit sworn to in her and the two other persons’ name. What did anyone expect the judge to do? Lawyers are in business; at least “man mo yee” (man must eat). So if you give your lawyer specific instruction, he will carry it out. So we cannot fault either the lawyer or Dominion Chambers for carrying out the instructions of one of the widows of Daddy Lumba.

For now, a point has been reached when people should allow their emotions to be tempered with sound logic. The Intestate Succession Law is alive to take care of the estate of Daddy Lumba, and PNDC Law III specifies the sharing: 3/16 to the surviving spouse (spouses, in this case); 9/16 to the surviving child (children in this case); 1/8 to the surviving parent; 1/8 in accordance with customary law.

Papa Shee, unashamedly, would announce another funeral observance on March 28th and 29th… that he had had contact with MUSIGA… what?

Will somebody tell Papa Shee he should be careful not to bring any more conflict  into the Lumba family. But Lumba has a great name. Anything done anywhere, anytime in his name will attract a huge crowd. Anybody can capitalize on this for his/her selfish end.

Let no one fault Odo Broni. She did not go to “boss” Daddy Lumba. It was Daddy Lumba who introduced her to the world as his wife, and the world acknowledged this fact, Lumba would attend social functions (funerals, child out doorings birthday…) with Odo Broni… she would cook for Daddy Lumba, take care of his health… common sense will dictate what is to be done for her, Odo Broni, mo ne adwuma.

 

 

 

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Weekend Ghana Premier League Match Day 21 Previews & Fixtures

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Albert Amoah, Asante Kotoko

Matchday 21 of the Ghana Premier League kicks-off today at the Dr. Kwame Kyei Sports Complex at Abrankese, with Nations FC welcoming league leaders Medeama today.

An inconsistent Nations FC will be eager to rediscover their winning ways when they host high-flying Medeama SC in a fascinating showdown.

According to ghanafa.org, Frimpong Manso’s Nations FC sit 12th on the league table and have managed just one win in their last five matches (D2, L2). Despite their struggles on the road, Nations FC have turned Abrankese into a fortress this season. They remain unbeaten in all ten home league fixtures, recording six wins and four draws while conceding just five goals. That formidable home form offers genuine optimism ahead of today’s clash.

Away from home, Medeama have been equally impressive, ranking as the second-best travellers with four wins and four draws from nine matches and remaining unbeaten in their last seven away outings (W3, D4).

Friday’s encounter presents Medeama with the opportunity to secure their first league win in Abrankese since 2023, but they face a stern test against a Nations FC side determined to protect their proud home record.

 

Will Lions devour the Porcupines?

Heart of Lions welcomes Asante Kotoko in a compelling Ghana Premier League fixture that brings together two sides with contrasting league ambitions but a fiercely competitive recent history.

Asante Kotoko goes into the match sitting 3rd on the league table with 35 points after 20 matches, firmly in the title conversation. The Porcupine Warriors have been defensively solid this season, conceding just 11 goals, the joint-best defensive record among the top sides. However, recent inconsistency evident in a mixed run of results means Kotoko will be keen to secure maximum points to keep pace with the league leaders.

Hearts of Lions, on the other hand, occupy 7th position with 27 points. While their season has been one of ups and downs, they remain a difficult side to break down, especially at home. Lions have shown balance in their play, though their recent form suggests a need for greater consistency as they look to climb into the top half of the table.

The head-to-head record strongly favors Heart of Lions in recent years. In the last six Premier League meetings, Asante Kotoko has failed to record a single win. Lions have claimed three victories, while three matches ended in draws, including a goalless stalemate earlier this season. Notably, Kotoko have struggled to score in this fixture, underlining Lions’ tactical discipline whenever the two sides meet.

This trend will give Heart of Lions confidence heading into the encounter, particularly playing in familiar surroundings. For Kotoko, the fixture represents an opportunity to finally break the jinx and assert their title credentials against a side that has often frustrated them.

With league points crucial at both ends Kotoko chasing the summit and Lions aiming to close the gap on the top six fans can expect a tightly contested match defined by organization, tactical battles, and fine margins.

Can Bechem United Uproot the Oak Tree?

Hearts of Oak face Bechem United in an intriguing Ghana Premier League encounter as both sides look to strengthen their positions after 20 rounds of matches.

Mawuli Wayo, Hearts of Oak

Hearts of Oak currently sit 4th on the league table with 35 points, level on points with Asante Kotoko and Aduana. The Phobians have built their campaign on a strong defensive foundation, conceding just seven goals and the best defensive record in the league so far. With nine wins from 20 matches, Hearts will be aiming to maintain pressure on the teams above them as the title race remains tightly contested.

Bechem United come into the fixture in 9th place with 25 points. Their season has been marked by inconsistency, reflected in their negative goal difference and mixed recent form. However, Bechem have shown they are capable of causing problems for top sides, particularly when allowed to dictate the tempo of the game.

The head-to-head record between the two sides is evenly balanced, with both teams enjoying success in recent seasons. In their last six Premier League meetings, Hearts of Oak have recorded three wins, while Bechem United have claimed two victories, with one draw. The most recent encounter earlier this season ended goalless at Bechem, highlighting how closely matched the sides have become.

Suraj Seidu, Dreams FC

At home, Hearts of Oak will take confidence from their recent successes against Bechem, including back-to-back victories in Accra. Bechem United, however, will be encouraged by their ability to frustrate Hearts on their own ground in previous seasons and will be keen to upset the odds once again.

With Hearts pushing for a place at the summit and Bechem seeking consistency in the second half of the season, this clash promises a competitive affair where discipline, organization, and taking chances could prove decisive.

Can All Blacks dim Gold Stars?

Bibiani Gold Stars host Swedru All Blacks in a crucial mid-table Ghana Premier League fixture as both sides look to gain momentum after 20 rounds of matches.

Gold Stars currently sit 6th on the league table with 33 points. Despite an inconsistent run of results, the Bibiani-based side has shown resilience throughout the season, winning 10 of their 20 matches. However, their negative goal difference highlights defensive vulnerabilities that they will be eager to address, especially when playing at home where they traditionally perform strongly.

Swedru All Blacks occupy 11th position with 24 points, level with Nations FC. The newcomers have had a competitive first half of the season, displaying organization and discipline, but have struggled to turn draws into wins. With just six victories so far, All Blacks will be aiming to improve their attacking output as they seek to climb away from the lower half of the table.

Abass Mohammed, Aduana FC

The head-to-head record offers limited history, with the two sides meeting just once in the league earlier this season. On that occasion, Bibiani Gold Stars edged a narrow 1–0 away victory in Swedru, a result that will give them confidence going into this encounter.

With Gold Stars pushing for a top-four finish and Swedru All Blacks looking to close the gap on the teams above them, this fixture promises to be tightly contested. Home advantage, defensive discipline, and efficiency in front of goal are likely to be decisive factors in what could be another closely fought contest.

By Jesse Otoo

 

FIXTURES

FRIDAY; 30TH JANUARY

Nations 15:30 Medeama

SATURIDAY; 31ST JANUARY

Vision 15:00 Dreams

Heart of Lions 15:30 Kotoko

SUNDAY; 1ST FEBRUARY

Aduana 15:00 Samartex

Gold Stars 15:00 All Blacks

Hearts 15:00 Bechem United

Holy Stars 15:00 Chelsea

Karela 15:00 Hohoe Utd

Young Apostles15:00 Eleven Wonders

 

The Ghanaian Chronicle