Renowned Ghanaian media personality, entertainment entrepreneur, and fashion icon, Kofi Okyere Darko, popularly known as KOD, has been appointed as the Director of Diaspora Affairs at the Office of the President.
KOD gained prominence as a radio and television presenter, becoming one of the most recognisable voices and faces in Ghanaian media.
He has worked with prominent media outlets such as Live FM, E TV Ghana, and GhOne, where he hosted popular shows and became a household name.
Beyond his media career, KOD is celebrated as a fashion icon, known for his bold and unique style that blends traditional African prints with contemporary designs.
His influence in the fashion industry has earned him both local and international recognition.
He is also a successful entrepreneur, founding ‘Rhythms on Da Runway,’ an annual fashion show that celebrates African creativity and showcases the continent’s vibrant fashion industry.
Through his various platforms, he has promoted Ghanaian music, fashion, and art, contributing to the global recognition of African talent.
KOD will take over from Akwasi Awua Ababio as the Director of Diaspora Affairs at the Office of the President.
The Diaspora Affairs Office was established in February 2017 to strengthen ties with Ghanaians living abroad and harness their contributions to national development.
The office is tasked with promoting the interests of the diaspora, exploring ways they can contribute to Ghana’s socio-economic growth, and raising awareness about the challenges of irregular migration.
The office works in partnership with state institutions, Ghanaian associations abroad, international organizations, and NGOs to foster collaboration and support the diaspora’s role in national development.
In his new role, KOD is expected to leverage his extensive network, creativity, and passion for African culture to strengthen connections with the diaspora community.
Fast-rising female Ghanaian afrobeats sensation, Stella Mensah known in showbiz circles as Ellah is out with the much-awaited video for her song ‘Kolom’.
The captivating visuals shot at multiple locations in the capital city,Accra captured nature blended with modernity.
It tells a beautiful story of a frustrated young lady whose vehicle broke down on the road. With the support of a good Samaritan, she was helped to locate the nearby mechanic.
Interestingly, at the mechanic having her vehicle fixed, the will of nature prevailed as the young lady, Ellah mysteriously fell in love with the treatment meted out to her by the mechanic.
They took their love journey to the next level by romantically expressing it to each other to preach the message.
Ellah believes that love must be a shared responsibility and must be reciprocated.
This she believes would create the right environment for sustainability.
She urged Ghanaians to unflinchingly support her craft for the world to see the quality she is made of.
On February 23, 2025, the W.E.B. Du Bois Museum Foundation, in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism, Culture & Creative Arts, hosted a commemorative event marking the 157th anniversary of the birth of Dr. W.E.B. Du Bois.
The ceremony, held at the W.E.B. Du Bois Memorial Centre for Pan-African Culture in Cantonments, Accra, Ghana, featured reflections on his life and work, along with a solemn wreath-laying ceremony to honour his enduring contributions to Pan-Africanism, racial equity, and social justice.
The programme commenced with the arrival of the delegation led by Nana Oye Bampoe Addo, Deputy Chief of Staff, who represented the President of the Republic, H.E. John Dramani Mahama.
The event opened with an invocation, followed by the Ghanaian National Anthem, setting the tone for an afternoon of insightful discussions and tributes.
The Minister for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Abla Dzifa Gomashie emphasised Ghana’s privilege and responsibility as custodians of the remains of great Pan-African figures like W.E.B. Du Bois.
She highlighted the Du Bois Center as a key cultural and historical site under her ministry, reaffirming the government’s commitment to preserving and promoting Pan-Africanism.
The minister acknowledged the alignment of this initiative with the National Democratic Congress (NDC) manifesto and her personal dedication to ensuring its success.
Expressing gratitude to all who have contributed intellectually, financially, and through advocacy, she noted the recent World Bank-funded renovation of the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park as an example of ongoing efforts to enhance Ghana’s cultural heritage.
She welcomed the financial commitments made toward the Du Bois Center’s restoration and pledged to review previous plans to advance the project.
The Minister further emphasised the importance of the Black Star Experience, a flagship programme championed by her ministry, and called for collective support, prayers, and goodwill in fulfilling these goals.
In a moment of cultural reverence, she invited the audience to stand and applaud in honour of W.E.B. Du Bois on his 157th birthday, underscoring the significance of his legacy in shaping Ghana’s creative and cultural landscape.
Japhet Aryiku, the Executive Director of the W.E.B. Du Bois Museum Foundation, extended a warm welcome to all in attendance to all in attendance and clarified that the Government of Ghana had neither sold nor leased the Du Bois Centre land to the foundation.
He revealed that instead, the foundation has committed to raising millions of dollars to develop the facility for the benefit of the Ghanaian people.
He emphasised that under the agreement, the foundation is dedicated to restoring and renovating Dr. Du Bois’ iconic bungalow, with full funding already secured.
Mr.Aryiku further announced plans to construct a new memorial to house Du Bois’ remains, alongside a space for reflection and meditation, featuring an eternal flame. Additionally, a state-of-the-art museum will be established to honor the life and work of Dr. Du Bois and Shirley Graham Du Bois.
Given Du Bois’ extensive global contributions over his 95-year life, Aryiku acknowledged the monumental nature of the project but reaffirmed the foundation’s determination to accomplish it.
He also highlighted the critical need to preserve Du Bois’ extensive collection of books and papers, which are deteriorating due to Ghana’s humid climate.
To address this, the foundation has partnered with the Library of Congress under a four-year agreement to provide technical support for restoration and conservation efforts.
Mr.Aryiku expressed excitement about the upcoming construction of a world-class research library that will house these invaluable works, making them accessible to scholars and the general public.
Representatives from the W.E.B. Du Bois Museum Foundation, the Du Bois family, the Government of the United States, and the Government of Ghana placed wreaths in his memory, accompanied by music that underscored the moment’s significance.
This was followed by remarks from Mr. Daniel Rose, Chairman of the W.E.B. Du Bois Museum Foundation, delivered by Dr. Deborah Rose.A distinguished panel shared reflections on the remarkable life and work of Dr. Du Bois.
Among the speakers were Odell Murry, Custodian of the Du Bois Legacy, Dr. Preston King, an American academic and civil rights activist, Dr. Whitney Battle-Baptiste, Director of the W.E.B. Du Bois Center at UMass Amherst, Prof. Alhassan S. Anamzoya, Head of Sociology at the University of Ghana, Ramsey Ryan, Chief of Staff at the Library of Congress, and Jeffrey Peck, great-grandson of Dr. Du Bois. Each speaker shared powerful insights into Du Bois’ impact on civil rights, scholarship, and global Pan-African movements.
The event was also graced by the presence of several dignitaries and very important figures, including Hon. Nana Oye Bampoe Addo, Deputy Chief of Staff, Hon. Abla Dzifa Gomashie, Minister for Tourism, Culture, and Creative Arts, Hon. Samia Yaba Nkrumah, H.E. Irchad Razaaly, European Union Ambassador to Ghana whose support and participation further emphasized the significance of this gathering.
The W.E.B. Du Bois Museum Foundation remains committed to preserving Du Bois’ legacy and fostering education on Pan-Africanism and social justice. The gathering served as a powerful reminder of his lasting influence and the ongoing efforts to honor his contributions to global history.
The mission of the W.E.B. Du Bois Museum Foundation is to honor the life of W.E.B. Du Bois and Shirley Graham Du Bois by transforming the W.E.B. Du Bois Center for Pan African Culture into a world-class museum complex, promoting a deeper understanding of African and African American history, and fostering global dialogue on racial equity, justice, and cultural heritage.
At the heart of its vision, the W.E.B. Du Bois Museum Foundation seeks to promote the study and appreciation of African and African-American heritage, history, and culture.
Through exhibitions, research, and educational initiatives, the foundation strives to inspire new generations to embrace and continue Du Bois’ vision of justice, equality, and intellectual empowerment. With a steadfast commitment to preserving historical narratives, the foundation works to ensure that Du Bois’ teachings and philosophy remain relevant in today’s society.
Minister for Defence DR Edward Omane Boamah has announced that the oxygen plant at the 37 Military Hospital is now fully operational, a significant boost to healthcare operations at the facility.
The development, he noted, underscores President John Dramani Mahama’s steadfast commitment to improving human security as part of his mission to reset Ghana.
During a recent working visit to the hospital, the defence minister learned that the facility’s oxygen plant was out of service. This risked the supply of essential medical oxygen to surgical theatres, Intensive Care Units, the various wards and the National Ambulance Service.
A medical doctor himself, the Minister quickly activated action. Responding swiftly to the alarming situation, the President directed the Ministry of Defence to collaborate with the National Security Coordinator to avert the problem.
New equipment has been procured and installed, ensuring that oxygen production and supply are stable and sufficient for both the hospital and ambulance services.
“I’m excited to announce that we have resolved the issue thanks to our proactive measures. There will be no bad news,” the defence minister stated in a Facebook post. “We remain committed to addressing challenges head-on, including those stemming from the mismanaged economy.”
The successful restoration of the oxygen plant is part of the Mahama administration’s ongoing efforts to enhance the nation’s healthcare system and ensure the safety and well-being of its citizens.
Veteran actor Mawuli Semevo has passed away after fire accident
The unfortunate incident happened on Thursday, February 20, 2025, at the Ridge Hospital, where he was receiving treatment after suffering burns from a fire accident about a week ago. He was 63.
On February 8, 2025, Judith Addison of Beyond Burns International, a dedicated non-profit organisation committed to providing advocacy and support for burns survivors, reported that Mawuli had been involved in a fire accident and was in critical condition.
“Beyond Burns International got an SOS that something unfortunate has happened. We came here today, and veteran actor Mawuli Semevo has been involved in a severe fire accident. I came here to see him, and his life is hanging in the balance,” Judith said in the video report posted on their social media pages.
According to her, Mawuli was sleeping in his house when it caught fire.
“He has suffered burns up to 44% of his body. He has respiratory injuries and cannot breathe properly.
This is very serious. From his head to his legs. Everywhere caught fire and he has lost all his hair,” she further stated.
The report was later corroborated by actors such as Ken Fiati and Edinam Atasti.
Mawuli Semevo is known for his immaculate acting skills both on stage and in movies.
He has played roles in movies such as ‘ Harvest at 17’, ‘A Stab in the Dark’, ‘Escape of Love’, ‘Like Cotten Twines’ and ‘The Good Old Days: The Love of AA.’
Mrs. Rose Idibia, the mother of Nigerian music legend 2face, has pleaded with his new lover, Natasha Osawaru, to “release him spiritually” since she believes he is not in his right mind.
Mrs. Idibia alleged that 2Face is trapped in spiritual slavery and begged Nigerian mothers to intervene.
He’s been acting weirdly lately, she observed, particularly throughout his divorce. She expressed her concerns about the beads Natasha placed around 2Face’s neck and hand, which she believes have a spiritual effect on him.
Meanwhile, 2Face, whose real name is Innocent Ujah Idibia, has been formally declared missing by his family, who have also requested assistance from the police in locating him.
According to a family statement, the musician left his home on February 10, 2025, without a bodyguard and only wearing loungewear. Nobody has seen him since then.
Given 2Face’s financial independence, the family lawyer, Wilson Anuge, revealed that they have gotten bizarre calls and messages from him requesting financial assistance, which they believe is unusual.
The attorney went on to claim that the family suspects foul play and believes 2Face was kidnapped and is being used as leverage to get money from his buddies.
The family was concerned about the impact his disappearance had on his music empire, which had come to a halt, as well as the emotional toll it had taken on his wife, children, and staff.
They have urged authorities to investigate the incident swiftly and ensure that 2Face returns safely.
Legendary Ghanaian Highlife musician Amanzeba Nat Brew has urged the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) to involve veterans who have significantly impacted the creative arts industry in their initiatives.
In an interview with GhanaWeb’s Joseph Henry Mensah on February 14, 2025, Amanzeba emphasised that involving personalities like Azumah Nelson and others would help generate revenue for the country.
He stated that the ministry and other relevant institutions should not wait for these veterans to pass away before recognising their value.
“The Ministry of Tourism must wake up and start thinking right because tourism can give us more than the galamsey and everything we are doing here that is causing havoc to the environment. We have most of the legends walking on the streets of Accra, such as Azumah Nelson, and we are just looking at them until they pass away,” he stated
Amanzeba pointed out that Azumah Nelson, a member of the ‘World Hall of Fame’, and Robert Mensah, Africa’s number-one goalkeeper, are just two examples of individuals whose names and images could be leveraged to boost tourism.
“Azumah Nelson is in the World Hall of Fame, for Christ’s sake… Africa’s number-one goalkeeper, Robert Mensah, is a Ghanaian. Do you know what we can do with his name and image in respect of tourism? They shouldn’t sit in the office, cross their legs, and think that we are going to get funding,” he added.
Amanzeba further stated that involving such personalities in the daily operations of the ministry could generate revenue for the country without relying on international funding.
“There are initiatives we can undertake that would generate funds on their own, without needing government contributions or efforts from international bodies. Let them come to us… Let’s stop borrowing money from others,” he concluded.
President John Dramani Mahama has called for collective action towards achieving justice for Africans and people of African descent through reparations.
Launching the African Union theme of the year 2025 during the 38th Ordinary Session of the AU Assembly in Addis Ababa in Ethiopia on Saturday, President Mahama said the pursuit of justice requires stronger legal and institutional mechanisms at national, regional, and international levels.
“We must continue to advocate for stronger legal and institutional mechanisms… to ensure that justice for the historical trauma inflicted on global Africa is not just a conversation, but a reality,” he said.
Theme
The African Union has dedicated the year 2025 to addressing historical injustices and their lingering consequences, which have impacted generations of Africans and people of African descent , under the theme: “Justice for Africans and People of African Descent through Reparations.”
The initiative aligns with the AU vision of Agenda 2063 for an integrated, peaceful, and prosperous continent.
The initiative seeks to mobilise political will, foster partnerships, engage stakeholders, elevate awareness, encourage dialogue, and ensure an end to the culture of silence and denial on racism and colonialism.
President Mahama said the Accra Reparations Conference in November 2023 reaffirmed the need for comprehensive reparatory justice and led to the development of stronger advocacy and policy frameworks.
He explained that achieving justice requires collaboration among European member states, regional economic communities, the global African diaspora, civil society organizations, academia, the private sector, and international partners.
Slave trade
President Mahama said the devastating effects of the transatlantic slave trade, colonialism, apartheid, genocide, and neo-colonial exploitation, have resulted in economic disparities, social inequality, systemic discrimination, and racial prejudices.
He noted that the transatlantic slave trade was one of the most heinous crimes against humanity, spanning about 400 years and forcibly displacing more than 12.5 million Africans.
For instance, President Mahama said an estimated two million Africans perished during the middle passage alone.
He said the legacy of this brutal system along with colonialism, apartheid, genocide, and new colonial exploitation have left deep and endurance cast on the fabric of our societies.
“The economic impact of colonialism on Africa has been profound, with the continent losing trillions of dollars in both human and material resources due to colonial exploitation,” President Mahama said.
President Mahama noted that the descendants of enslaved Africans continue to face economic disparities, social inequality, systemic discrimination, and racial prejudices.
He said addressing these challenges requires more than just acknowledging them, “It demands action”.
“We must continue to advocate for stronger legal and institutional mechanisms at the national, regional, and international levels to ensure that justice for the historical trauma inflicted on global Africa is not just a conversation, but a reality,” President Mahama said.
President Mahama expressed Ghana’s support for the critical initiative, urging collective action towards a future that is fair, just, and equitable for all Africans and people of African descent.
President John Dramani Mahama has arrived in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia to participate in the 38th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government of the African Union.
On his arrival at the Boli International Airport, President Mahama was cordially welcomed by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa and Ghanaian diplomats.
Summit
The 38th AU Heads of States Summit is being held in Addis Ababa from February 15 to 16 under the theme: “Justice for Africans and People of African Descent through Reparations.”
It will focus on advancing reparatory justice and fostering racial healing across the continent.
The theme was decided on by the Heads of State and Government at the 37th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of the Union held in February 2023 in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
According to the AU Commission, in the continuing pursuit of justice and equity, the conversation about reparations has emerged as a critical and transformative dialogue that requires the collective attention and action of Africans and all people of African descent.
“The scope of this conversation goes beyond historical injustices and into the current fabric of societies around the world,” a statement from the AU stated.
Election
As African Heads of States gather in the Ethiopian capital for the biggest gathering of the continent’s leaders, one of the key moments would be the election of the next African Union Commission Chairperson.
It is expected that, African Union Commission Chairperson Moussa Faki Mahamat will officially step down on 15 February. To replace him, several candidates are vying for the top spot.
Djibouti’s Foreign Minister since 2005, Mahamoud Ali Youssouf, has been nominated by his country to run for the chairperson position.
A former Prime Minister of Kenya and the AU’s High Representative for Infrastructure Development from 2018 to 2023, Raila Odinga has garnered significant support from various African countries, including Algeria, Angola, and Botswana.
Madagascar’s former Foreign Minister, Richard Randriamandrato is also in the running, although he has only received one vote pledge so far.
Other candidates who were initially in the running but have since withdrawn or been withdrawn by their countries include Anil Gayan from Mauritius, Fawzia Yusuf Adam from Somalia, and Vincent Meriton from Seychelles.
Agenda
The agenda for the meeting also includes the adoption of the agenda and organization of work, consideration of the report of the 49th Ordinary Session of the Permanent Representatives’ Committee (PRC), and elections for various positions.
These positions include six Commissioners of the African Union Commission, five members of the Peace and Security Council of the African Union, and one member of the African Space Agency, among others.
The council will also consider the annual report on the activities of the Union, its organs, and champions, as well as reports from the Africa Centers for Diseases Control (AFCDC) and the 15th AFCFTA Council of Ministers for Trade.
Additionally, the council will discuss draft legal instruments, including the Draft African Union Convention on Ending Violence Against Women and Girls and the Draft Statute of the Africa Food Safety Agency.
The meeting will conclude with the adoption of decisions and a closing ceremony.
President John Mahama held bilateral meetings on Thursday, the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference. The meetings focused on enhancing regional security cooperation and investment opportunities in Ghana.
One of the highlights of the day was a meeting with General Michael E. Langley, Commander of the United States African Command (USAFRICOM). The talks focused on addressing subregional security threats and the urgent need for increased U.S. support in tackling these challenges.
“Today’s meeting with General Langley highlights Ghana’s commitment to enhancing our security posture in response to evolving threats across the region,” stated President Mahama. “We appreciate the support of the United States and are keen to expand our collaborative efforts.”
Key topics discussed included the establishment of a bilateral agreement for joint maritime patrols, an initiative to safeguard Ghana’s coastal waters, and to combat illegal fishing and piracy. The two leaders also explored avenues for improved coordination between USAFRICOM and the Ghana Armed Forces regarding security cooperation and logistics, thereby enhancing operational effectiveness.
Regional security remains a top priority, so the meetings reflect a concerted effort to strengthen partnerships that can effectively respond to emerging threats and ensure stability throughout West Africa.
The Munich Security Conference, which brings together leaders worldwide, is a crucial platform for dialogue on international security. President Mahama’s engagement with USAFRICOM highlights Ghana’s proactive approach to regional security and its strategic partnership with the United States.
His Excellency, Tong Defa, the Chinese Ambassador to Ghana has disclosed that the Chinese government has been impressed by the policies and plans of the H.E John Dramani Mahama’s government and prepared to serve as avid collaborators in the implementation of these innovative policies.
In a brief speech made during a courtesy call to the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Hon. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, MP, the Chinese Ambassador commended the President, H. E. John Dramani Mahama for attending the Chinese Lantern Festival Celebration and delivering a speech of epochal significance.
Ambassador Tong Defa, who described President Mahama’s speech as ‘incredible’ stated that the Chinese government, which has always been a strategic partner for Ghana is prepared to help the government’s transformation agenda.
“We have been supporting each other in a lot of areas. Bilateral trade and cooperation continues to flourish. China enjoys being the largest training partner for Ghana. China remains one of the biggest investors in Ghana. I am happy President attended our event and delivered an encouraging speech that Ghana’s doors are opened to Chinese investors for business”, he said.
“We are very glad and dedicated to continuing this strong relationship. We regard Ghana as strategic partners and our interest covers all areas. We are willing and ready to align with the agenda of President Mahama,” he said.
The Lands Minister, Hon. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, in his address referenced the well documented history of Ghana’s partnership with China which traces back to the era of Ghana’s first president, Osagyefo Dr Kwame Nkrumah who interestingly hails from the same district (Ellembelle) as Hon. Armah Kofi-Buah.
The Minister used the meeting to arouse the interest of the Chinese and Australia and US Ambassadors at separate meetings held at the Ministry on Thursday, 13th February 2025.
The Minister stated that policies such as the ‘Tree for Life and ‘Blue Water’ initiative present significant opportunities for Chinese investors to tap into a new market and generate benefits.
Hon. Armah-Kofi Buah also outlined the government’s plan to shift Ghana from resource production to resource refinement and value addition noting that there are plans by government to revamp VALCO and that new investors are welcomed to leverage on the opportunity.
He stated that the promotion of legal and sustainable mining activities is a priority among priorities for the Ghanaian government and that the Chinese , Australia and the US investors can trust the government of Ghana to create the necessary legal framework for their investment to thrive especially in the mining and forestry sub-sectors.
The Lands Minister who doubles as the Member of Parliament for Ellembelle stated that the government will continue to partner the Chinese,Australia and the United States of America government for the country’s growth.
Hon. Armah-Kofi Buah also received Her Excellency Berenice Owen-Jones, the Australian High Commissioner to Ghana with the conversation focusing on the mining industries in both countries with emphasis on how Ghana can learn from the success story of Australia which is one of the world’s leading countries when it comes to mining.
The Lands Minister further outlined the challenges confronting the Ghanaian mining industry, seeking the support of the Australian government and investment community in dealing with the challenge.
Hon. Armah-Kofi Buah stated that while there exists massive opportunity in the mining sector as it plays critical role in Ghana’s, there is the urgent need for the government to eradicate the challenges in order not to just generate maximum revenue but also protect the country’s forest and water resources.
H.E Berenice Owen-Jones, the Australian High Commissioner to Ghana, indicated the preparedness of Australia to provide personnel and logistical support to Ghana as the country navigates it illegal mining challenge.
She promised to engage relevant stakeholders and ensure that the government gets the required support to turn around the situations about its riverbodies and forests.
Meanwhile, the United States of America High Ambassador to Ghana Her Excellency Ms. Virginia E. Palmer also paid a courtesy call on the Hon. Minister.
She congratulated the Lands Minister on his appointment and also discussed ways of deepening bilateral cooperation between Ghana and the United States.
The Hon. Minister in his response admitted the importance of collaborating with the US government to improve Ghana’s forest management especially through programmes such as women in afforestation.
He added that government through the Ministry will revive and sanitize the mining sector to boost productivity and value addition.
Ghanaian musician Mr. Drew has shed light on the inspiration and struggles behind his signature bald look, revealing that while it sets him apart in the industry, it also comes with its own set of challenges.
In a recent interview the singer explained that one of the biggest downsides of being bald is dealing with the sun’s intensity.
“We can’t really walk in the sun because ego really blaze the brain, yeah man,” he said in Pidgin English, highlighting how direct sunlight can be uncomfortable.
Due to this, the ‘Sum) mi’ hitmaker prefers to avoid daytime video shoots.
“I don’t like shoots during the day. I remember like if we get shoots during the day, ano like am. Chale, edey make my head dey ache. Coz the sun shines direct, edey cool your brain. Chale, ano fit,” he shared.
On a lighter note, Mr. Drew pointed out that being bald comes with financial perks, as he spends little on grooming.
“Bald cut – easy going. Barbers no dey chop my money coz me naa Adey shave my head. If you go chop my money, ebe sake of my beard,” he joked.
When asked what inspired his look, the singer said he deliberately chose it to stand out in an industry where many artists opt for dreadlocks and other hairstyles.
“I wanted something that would stand out,” he stated.
Interestingly, Mr. Drew’s bald style is not due to hair loss. He clarified that shaving his head is a personal choice and that he can grow his hair back whenever he wants.
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