Entertainment
MINISTRY OF TOURISM, CULTURE AND CREATIVE ARTS, GHANA TOURISM AUTHORITY CELEBRATES “SANKOFA SQUARE” IN TORONTO, CANADA
The official opening ceremony for the Sankofa Day Celebrations took place on Saturday, 23rd August, 2025 at the Sankofa Square, Toronto – Canada, formery Yonge Dundas Square. The day and change of name from Yonge Dundas Square to “Sankofa Square” is very significant to the history of Ghana as it marks the International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and its Abolition.
The change of name is as a result of a two-year consultation process led by the Toronto city’s Recognition Review Community Advisory Committee comprising black and indigenous leaders, residents and business owners. The process to rename the iconic square in Toronto’s downtown core was precipitated by a petition that claiming that its namesake, Henry Dundas, a Scottish politician from the 1770’s to the early 1800’s was a major proponent in delaying the abolition of the Transatlantic slave trade. Following two years of community consultation, research and discussion, the Toronto City’s Recognition Review Community Advisory Committee (CAC) reached consensus choice on the name “Sankofa Square” for Yonge Dundas Square.
Sankofa square hosted a full day celebration on 23rd August, 2025 marking the official launch and opening under the theme, “Looking Back, Building Forward” with cultural performances, art installations, music, sports, story telling, sale of made in Ghana products, Ghanaian foods, paintings, sculptures, etc. The Toronto Ghanaian community led by the Ghanaian Canadian Association of Ontario (GCAO) participated in the celebrations with the pride of Ghanaian culture and pageantry.
Representing His Excellency the President of the Republic of Ghana, John Dramani Mahama were the Hon. Minister for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Hon. Abla Dzifa Gomashie and the Hon. Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs, Hon. James Gyakye Quayeson. Speaking on behalf of His Excellency the President, Hon. Gomashie stated that “the renaming of the Yonge Dundas Square to Sankofa Square is not merely a change of name, it is an act of remembrance and an act of reclamation and an act of reparations. It is a bold step towards justice and healing not just for the people of Toronto but for all Africans, at home and in the Diaspora”. She further noted that “in renaming the Sankofa Square, Toronto sends a powerful message to the rest of the world that it is possible to face history with honesty, to dismantle legacies of oppression and commit to building an inclusive and equitable future. By choosing Sankofa, the city of Toronto affirms the importance of African heritage in the global struggle for freedom, justice and acknowledges the centrality of memory in the journey towards freedom”
She reiterated the modus operandi of the Black Star Experience, the government’s flagship programme “Since Ghana’s independence in 1957, the country stands as a beacon of Pan – Africanism and African liberation. Ghana has open its doors to the rest of the world through initiatives such as PANAFEST / Emancipation, Year of Return, Beyond the Return and now the Black Star Experience. The Black Star Experience is a call for total cultural immersion and it dovetails into the renaming of the Square. The Sankofa Square should therefore be a living space of dialogue, cultural exchange, education and empowerment”
The Hon. Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs on the other hand also stated that “the story of the African Diaspora is woven into the fabric of Canada and the world. We also honour the presence of the white diaspora community that has made Canada a home. Sankofa teaches us that history must be faced together and that healing is collective”. He announced the Sankofa Freedom Movement Project to be unveiled one year in Toronto, Canada. He expressed appreciation to the Canadian Government, Toronto City Mayor – Olivia Chow and Toronto City Councillor – Chris Moise for their immense efforts and support to the project.
On behalf of the Canadian Government, Toronto City Mayor – Olivia Chow and Toronto City Councillor – Chris Moise expressed the desire of the Canadian Government to continue supporting the project and maintain the cordial Diplomatic relations between both countries.
The name Sankofa originates from Ghana and it means, “Go back and get it” symbolizing learning from the past to build a progressive future. The name Sankofa is an image of a bird, with its body and feet facing forward, looking backwards to collect an egg from its back or holding an egg in its mouth. It is a symbol of survival, reclamation and remembrance. The name change reflects Toronto City’s commitment to confronting anti black racism, acknowledging the impact of the transatlantic slave trade and slavery, advancing truth and reconciliation, fostering a more inclusive and equitable community. In removing the name “Dundas” associated with Henry Dundas who delayed the abolition of the slave trade, Toronto city says this new name reflects the city’s commitment to taking steps to right wrongs, confronting anti-black racism and building a more inclusive Toronto for all. Toronto City Council voted 17 to 6 in favour of moving forward with the name change.
On behalf of the CEO of the Ghana Tourism Authority, Mrs. Maame Efua Houadjeto, the team from GTA comprising Kofi Atta Kakra Kusi, Deputy Director, Corporate Affairs and Sena Sadat Abdulai, Project Officer at the Office of the CEO, took the opportunity to promote and market Ghana as a destination of choice to Canadians, tourists, foreigners, diasporans and people of African descent.

*Source : GHANA TOURISM AUTHORITY*
Entertainment
WHEN THE STREET CROWN IS ON YOUR HEAD, THE BURDEN OF Charles Nii Armah Mensah – Socrates Safo
Quiet Generosity Behind the Fame, Socrates Safo Shares Insights on Shatta Wale’s Leadership
By Socrates Safo
Ghanaian entertainment figure Shatta Wale, born Charles Nii Armah Mensah, is often described as a man who carries the “street crown.” With fame, influence, and controversy constantly surrounding his brand, new revelations suggest there is a quieter dimension to his leadership that rarely makes headlines.
In a recent late night conversation described by filmmaker and creative personality Socrates Safo, the focus was not publicity or media attention, but responsibility, strategy, and what he calls silent generosity.
A Private Conversation, Not a Public Interview
According to Safo, the discussion was a family style exchange held behind closed doors. It followed his earlier public suggestion that the artiste should consider establishing structured, long term support systems for loyal fans who have stood by the Shatta Movement brand over the years.
What emerged from the conversation was an assertion that many of the musician’s contributions have intentionally been kept out of the public eye. The reason, Safo explains, is rooted in personal conviction rather than showmanship.
Across religious traditions, including biblical teachings such as Matthew 6 verses 3 to 4, acts of charity are encouraged to be done without seeking applause. Safo suggests this philosophy resonates strongly with the artiste’s approach to giving.
Support Systems Beyond the Spotlight
Safo disclosed that behind the scenes, the artiste has reportedly sponsored university education for some supporters, assisted in establishing pubs, supported the creation of hairdressing salons and eateries, and opened pathways for self employment.
These interventions, he claims, were not accompanied by press conferences or media campaigns. Instead, they were handled privately, with what he describes as screenshot evidence shared with him for personal viewing.
Business Empowerment Through HOTWAV and Shaxi
The conversation also touched on business expansion. With the HOTWAV phone brand, plans are reportedly underway to build a distribution network that allows loyal supporters to become agents and retailers, earning income through direct sales and digital promotion.
In addition, Safo highlighted the Shaxi transport platform. Drivers on the platform reportedly pay twenty cedis daily to activate the app, a structure the artiste considers fair within an industry often criticized for high commission deductions. Some drivers operate under a “Work and Pay” system, eventually owning the vehicles they drive, a model described as practical empowerment.
Addressing the Cash Throwing Controversy
One of the most debated aspects of the artiste’s public appearances is the act of spraying or throwing cash into crowds. Critics have frequently questioned the practice.
Safo recounts that the defence offered during their discussion was pragmatic. In his view, small sums of money can provide immediate relief to individuals in desperate situations. In certain chaotic environments, what appears theatrical to critics may be seen by supporters as urgent assistance or even a security strategy to disperse crowds and allow safe movement.
Industry Relations and Forward Plans
Safo also referenced comments directed toward industry colleagues such as Bullgod and Arnold Asamoah-Baidoo, along with a special mention of Ansah Addo Halifax. The overarching message, he noted, centered on promoting constructive causes and building rather than destroying within the creative industry.
Plans to host media personalities for direct engagement were also hinted at, though Safo emphasized that certain aspects of the conversation remain undisclosed as some initiatives are still in development.
The Weight of the Street Crown
Safo concludes that leadership in entertainment, especially one rooted in street credibility, carries expectations that can become both responsibility and burden. In a culture driven by visibility and constant media scrutiny, he argues that some of the most significant actions occur quietly.
For members of the Shatta Movement and supporters such as Samuel Atuobi Baah, the message is clear. The crown may be visible, but the weight it carries is often unseen.
Entertainment
Patricia Asiedua Asiamah Speaks After Release, Describes Prison Term as Spiritual Test of Faith
Patricia Asiedua Asiamah, widely known as Nana Agradaa, has spoken publicly for the first time following her release from prison, describing her time in custody as a profound spiritual journey anchored in prayer, scripture, and steadfast faith in God.
Addressing the media after regaining her freedom on March 3, the controversial evangelist recounted the anxiety and uncertainty she experienced upon being taken into custody. According to her, the initial moments were filled with fear and a sense of the unknown.
She revealed that on her way to prison, she felt as though she was heading toward death. Standing at the prison gate, she said she surrendered herself completely to God, admitting she had no idea what awaited her inside. Clutching her Bible, she prayed for mercy before walking through the gates.
Nana Agradaa said the announcement of a 15 year sentence was difficult to process. She described the moment as overwhelming, questioning how she could face such a lengthy term behind bars. The reality of the sentence, she noted, forced her to reflect deeply on her circumstances.
With what seemed like a daunting future ahead, she said she turned entirely to prayer and the Word of God for strength. According to her, faith became her only source of hope during that period.
While in custody, she immersed herself in biblical accounts of imprisonment and divine intervention. She cited stories from the Book of Acts, including the imprisonment and subsequent release of Peter, as well as Paul and Silas, who were freed after praying while in chains. She said these accounts strengthened her belief that prayer and faith could bring deliverance even in the most difficult situations.
She also reflected on the opening verses of the Gospel of John, emphasizing the power of the Word through which she believes God created the heavens and the earth. In her view, if divine power could shape creation, then a 15 year sentence was insignificant before God.
Nana Agradaa further referenced the story of Jonah, who repented after disobedience and received mercy, and King Nebuchadnezzar, who, according to the Bible, regained his kingship after humbling himself before God. She explained that these examples reinforced her conviction that repentance and humility could lead to restoration.
According to her, she made a personal vow during her incarceration, promising to dedicate herself fully to God’s service if granted mercy and freedom. She said she reminded God of His unchanging nature and asked for the same intervention shown to biblical figures in the past.
Her release comes under Ghana’s remission policy, which allows eligible inmates to benefit from a reduction of up to one third of their sentence for good behaviour while serving their term.
Entertainment
THE INSIDE STORY: Why President Mahama Revoked Gideon Nii Aryeequaye’s Appointment as Executive Secretary of the Creative Arts Agency
A quiet but significant power struggle within Ghana’s creative arts administration has reportedly culminated in President John Dramani Mahama revoking the appointment of Gideon Nii Aryeequaye as Acting Executive Secretary of the Creative Arts Agency.
Multiple sources close to developments within the sector have disclosed to Ghana’s reliable creative arts tourism and culture website KPDONLINE.NET that the decision did not come suddenly but followed weeks of internal disagreements over leadership direction, institutional authority, and control of the creative arts space.
Mr. Aryeequaye has since been reassigned to the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, reportedly without a defined portfolio, a move insiders describe as a clear indication of an ongoing restructuring exercise within the sector.
According to highly placed industry sources, tensions had been mounting between the leadership of the Creative Arts Agency and the sector ministry led by Abla Dzifa Gomashie.
Sources claim disagreements centred on the operational independence of the Agency, policy control, and the broader direction of Ghana’s creative arts governance framework.
Insiders further suggest that the Ministry is pursuing a consolidation agenda aimed at bringing creative arts administration directly under ministerial supervision, a move some stakeholders interpret as a possible downsizing or restructuring of the Agency’s authority.
The sudden leadership change has sent shockwaves across Ghana’s creative industry, with practitioners questioning what the future holds for institutional representation and policy advocacy within the arts ecosystem.
Industry observers believe the President’s intervention signals the government’s determination to restore alignment within the sector while redefining how creative arts institutions function under national development priorities.
While official details surrounding the revocation remain limited, sources indicate that additional administrative changes could follow as the government reassesses structures within tourism, culture, and creative arts governance.
For now, stakeholders remain watchful as one of Ghana’s most critical cultural institutions faces what many describe as a defining moment.
Stay with KPDONLINE.NETfor exclusive updates as this developing story unfolds.
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