Entertainment
Ghana Secures $3.5 Million UNESCO Heritage Support During Tourism Minister’s South Korea Visit
Ghana has secured a major international commitment to strengthen the preservation of its cultural heritage after the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Hon. Abla Dzifa Gomashie, successfully led the country’s delegation to the 48th Session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee in Busan, Republic of Korea.
The high-level mission resulted in significant financial, technical and capacity-building support aimed at improving the conservation, management and sustainable development of Ghana’s World Heritage properties, particularly the country’s historic Forts and Castles.
During the session, the Ghanaian delegation actively participated in deliberations of the World Heritage Committee while holding strategic bilateral meetings with key international heritage institutions. These included the Africa World Heritage Fund (AWHF), the World Heritage Institute of Training and Research for the Asia and the Pacific Region (WHIPIC), the Assistant Director-General for Culture of UNESCO, and the Executive Director of the Korean National Commission for UNESCO.
The discussions focused on enhancing Ghana’s heritage management systems, strengthening technical expertise and mobilising international resources to address the conservation challenges facing the country’s World Heritage sites.
One of the major outcomes of the visit was a commitment by the Africa World Heritage Fund to support the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts and the Ghana Museums and Monuments Board (GMMB) through specialised human resource development and capacity-building programmes. The initiative is expected to strengthen professional expertise in heritage conservation and improve the long-term management of Ghana’s heritage assets.
In addition, WHIPIC pledged technical assistance by providing specialised training for officers of the Ghana Museums and Monuments Board in heritage site interpretation and visitor experience management. The programme is expected to improve the presentation of Ghana’s historical sites to both local and international visitors, enhancing tourism and public appreciation of the country’s cultural heritage.
A major highlight of the visit was a US$3.5 million pledge by the Korean National Commission for UNESCO to support restoration works at six selected Forts and Castles in Ghana. The funding will complement the Government of Ghana’s ongoing efforts to implement UNESCO’s conservation recommendations and preserve some of the country’s most important historical monuments for future generations.
While in South Korea, Hon. Abla Dzifa Gomashie, accompanied by Ghana’s Ambassador to the Republic of Korea, H.E. Kojo Choi, and members of the Ghanaian delegation, also attended the graduation ceremony of six Ghanaian officials who completed a specialised heritage capacity-building programme organised by the Korean National Commission for UNESCO in Seoul.
The beneficiaries were drawn from the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, the Ghana National Commission for UNESCO, the Ghana Museums and Monuments Board, and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). They received intensive training on managing the impacts of climate change on cultural heritage sites, equipping them with the technical knowledge and skills required to strengthen the resilience of Ghana’s World Heritage properties against climate-related threats.
Speaking during the graduation ceremony, Hon. Gomashie congratulated the participants for completing the programme and expressed Ghana’s appreciation to the Korean National Commission for UNESCO for its continued investment in building the country’s heritage management capacity.
She further expressed Ghana’s gratitude to the Government and people of the Republic of Korea, UNESCO, the Africa World Heritage Fund and WHIPIC for their continued partnership and confidence in Ghana’s commitment to protecting its cultural heritage.
The Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment, under the leadership of President John Dramani Mahama, to safeguard and promote Ghana’s cultural heritage as a key driver of tourism development, education, employment creation and sustainable national development.
The Ghanaian delegation comprised Mrs Meredith Naakai Lamptey Addy, Ghana’s Permanent Representative to UNESCO; Prof. Usman Damba, Secretary-General of the Ghana National Commission for UNESCO; Mr Kwesi Essel Blankson, Acting Executive Director of the Ghana Museums and Monuments Board; and Mr Divine Kwame Owusu-Ansah, Director for Culture and Creative Arts at the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts.
The successful mission is expected to significantly strengthen Ghana’s heritage conservation efforts while enhancing the country’s tourism potential through improved preservation and management of its internationally recognised cultural sites.
Entertainment
Beverly Afaglo Laid to Rest as Family, Friends and Fans Bid Farewell
Ghanaian actress Beverly Afaglo is being laid to rest today, Saturday, August 8, 2026, as family, friends, colleagues, and fans gather in Accra to pay their final respects and celebrate her life.
The main funeral service is being held at the Forecourt of the State House in Accra, with proceedings scheduled to begin at 7:00 a.m.
Following the funeral service, Beverly Afaglo will be buried in a private ceremony reserved for close family members.
Today’s funeral rites form part of a series of ceremonies organised by the family to honour the late actress and allow loved ones in Ghana and abroad to mourn her passing and celebrate her life.
The first phase of the funeral took place on Saturday, August 1, 2026, in Laurel, Maryland, in the United States. The ceremony brought together relatives, friends, and members of the Ghanaian diaspora community, who gathered to remember Beverly and reflect on her life and career.
The final funeral activities in Ghana will conclude on Sunday, August 9, 2026, with a thanksgiving service at Action Chapel International. The service is scheduled to begin at 9:00 a.m.
Beverly Afaglo passed away on May 24, 2026, at the age of 42 after a battle with cancer. Her death occurred just four days before her 43rd birthday.
Her passing was met with an outpouring of grief from Ghana’s entertainment community and audiences who had followed her career over the years.
Beverly was a familiar face in Ghana’s film and television industry, where she built a notable career through her appearances in movies and television productions. Her performances earned her recognition among Ghanaian audiences and established her as one of the actresses associated with the country’s vibrant entertainment industry.
Beyond her work on screen, her presence in Ghanaian popular culture made her a recognisable figure to many fans. Her death therefore marked a significant loss to the acting fraternity, with colleagues, friends and admirers remembering her for the contribution she made to Ghanaian entertainment.
As mourners gather at the State House today, the focus remains on celebrating Beverly Afaglo’s life, remembering her work and offering support to her family as they bid farewell to a woman who left a lasting mark on Ghana’s film and television landscape.
The thanksgiving service on Sunday will provide one final opportunity for family, friends, colleagues and members of the public to come together in remembrance before the funeral activities officially come to an end.
Entertainment
“I Was Scared” – KiDi Opens Up About Becoming a Father While Still in University
Award-winning Ghanaian musician KiDi has opened up about one of the most challenging periods of his life, revealing that he initially struggled with fear and uncertainty after learning he was going to become a father while still pursuing his university education.
Speaking on the Konnected Minds Podcast, the singer said the news came at a time when he was still trying to build his own future, making the responsibility of parenthood feel overwhelming.
“I was scared. I was in uni. I was scared. I was shaken,” KiDi admitted.
The “Touch It” hitmaker explained that the pregnancy affected his academic journey, as he had to prepare for his resit examinations while dealing with the emotional weight of becoming a father.
According to him, his biggest concern was how he would provide and care for a child when he was still trying to establish himself.
“So how to raise a child? I was still even raising myself. I was still trying to figure out my place in the world. So to come and add another human to that equation was such a scary concept.”
Despite those fears, KiDi said the unwavering support of his family, especially his mother, gave him the strength to push through the difficult period.
He recalled that knowing his family stood behind him kept him motivated to continue his education despite the challenges.
“One thing that kept me going was I always find a way. No matter how difficult it was. I knew I had my family. I knew I had those people behind me. My mom was always going to show up for me.”
The musician said that support ultimately enabled him to complete his studies and successfully sit for his resit examinations.
Reflecting on that period, he added humorously that he even relied on an energy boost to get through the exams.
“It helped me to finish my education. I even took some vim to go and write my resits.”
KiDi also disclosed that although he learned about the pregnancy early, he was unable to be actively involved throughout the pregnancy because he and the child’s mother were living in different countries.
As a result, he missed the antenatal appointments and only reunited with them after the baby was born.
“I wasn’t able to be there until he was actually born because we were in different countries,” he explained.
Entertainment
Stonebwoy and Medikal’s Friendly London Encounter Sparks Buzz Online
Entertainment
Stonebwoy Assures Top-Notch Security Ahead of BHIM Festival London 2026, Promises World-Class Experience
Ghanaian dancehall star Stonebwoy has assured fans that security at the upcoming BHIM Festival London will be of the highest standard, stressing that the event will mirror the safety, organisation, and premium experience that have become synonymous with his concerts in Ghana.
Speaking ahead of the highly anticipated festival scheduled for August 15, the award-winning musician said the safety of patrons remains a top priority, especially because his events regularly attract high-profile personalities, including government officials, traditional leaders, and dignitaries.
According to Stonebwoy, his concerts in Ghana have consistently hosted crowds of up to 50,000 people in a peaceful and well-organised environment, and he intends to replicate the same standards for the London edition.
“You’ve been to my festivals in Ghana, 50,000 people trooping and everything is clean, nice. They chill, they have fun. I’ve got people from the presidency at my show every time. MPs, high-caliber, high-class kings and queens, and security is top-notch,” he said.
The “Into the Future” hitmaker explained that the security arrangements for the London festival are being carefully planned to ensure attendees enjoy the event in a safe, comfortable, and enabling atmosphere.
He noted that the goal is to create an environment where music lovers can relax while experiencing an unforgettable festival.
“We’re going to implement the same qualities over here to make sure the people are safe and have a beautiful and enabling environment to enjoy themselves,” he added.
Beyond security, Stonebwoy promised fans a spectacular musical production, saying every aspect of the festival is being designed to meet the highest international standards.
He emphasised that he takes pride in delivering performances that reflect the dedication, hard work, and passion he invests in his craft.
According to him, while some artists simply perform their songs on stage, he strives to present music at the highest level of quality and representation.
“Some artists get on stage and deliver what they’ve got to deliver, but when you see the ones that put in the blood, sweat, tears and heart to beautify the craft, I choose to be one of those. The people deserve such quality acts, and that’s what I’m going to put up come the 15th of August.”
Stonebwoy also revealed that the Stonebwoy BHIM Festival London lineup will feature an unprecedented gathering of Ghanaian music legends alongside international reggae and dancehall acts.
He announced that celebrated Ghanaian musicians Kwabena Kwabena, Samini, and Ofori Amponsah will perform at the festival, describing the collaboration as a rare moment in Ghanaian music history.
In addition to the Ghanaian stars, Stonebwoy confirmed that Jamaican artistes Stylo G and Busy Signal will also perform.
He further disclosed that two additional Jamaican acts will be unveiled as surprise guests before the event.
The musician said the festival will celebrate the richness of Black music, bringing together different musical influences from Ghana and Jamaica in one unforgettable experience.
BHIM Festival London Set for August 15
The Stonebwoy BHIM Festival London is scheduled to take place on August 15 and is expected to attract fans from across the United Kingdom and beyond.
With assurances of world-class security, premium stage production, and a lineup featuring some of Ghana’s biggest music icons alongside internationally acclaimed Jamaican performers, the festival is shaping up to be one of the biggest African music events in London this year
Entertainment
Diana Hamilton Celebrates 21 Years of Marriage: “I’d Choose You All Over Again”
Award-winning Ghanaian gospel musician Diana Hamilton has celebrated 21 years of marriage with her husband, Dr. Joseph Hamilton, sharing a heartfelt tribute to mark the special occasion.
Diana Hamilton, renowned for hit gospel songs including Nyame Banbofo, Adom (Grace), and Mo Ne Yo, is one of Ghana’s most celebrated gospel artistes. Her music ministry has earned her numerous accolades and a loyal fan base across Ghana and beyond.
To mark their 21st wedding anniversary, the singer took to social media on August 6, 2026, sharing beautiful photos of the couple alongside an emotional message reflecting on their journey together.
“21 years with you feels like just 12 days. Thank you for loving me through every season of life. I’d choose you all over again, always, @drjosephhamilton. Happy 21st Anniversary to us!”
Reflecting on their journey together, Diana said the more than two decades they have spent as husband and wife have passed so quickly that they feel like only a few days.
In an earlier interview, the celebrated gospel artiste revealed that Dr. Joseph Hamilton is not only her husband but also the first and only man she has ever dated.
According to her, their relationship began during her final year at nursing school, laying the foundation for a lifelong partnership that eventually led to marriage.
She also disclosed that she had never been in a romantic relationship before meeting him and was a virgin when they first met.
“My husband is actually my first boyfriend. I’ve never been in a relationship with any other man before. There are no ex-boyfriends in my past; my husband is the only man I’ve known,” she said.
The touching post quickly drew congratulatory messages from fans, fellow musicians, and well-wishers, who praised the couple for their enduring love and wished them many more years of happiness.
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