The Foundation of Concerned Arts Professionals (FOCAP) believes that President John Dramani Mahama’s 120-day social contract regarding Tourism, Culture, and Creative Arts has been achieved. Indeed, FOCAP has been following with keen interest to see the effectiveness of promises made by the present government.

In his 120-day social contract, President Mahama promised to officially launch the Blackstar Experience, and indeed, he did. This, FOCAP, sees President John Mahama as a leader who loves the Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts sector and wants to see the maximum growth of the orange economy.

FOCAP is looking at the proper execution of the Blackstar Experience and its impact felt across the country with yielding results and fruits. The creative sector largely needs serious help to sustain the players. We pray the Blackstar Experience Secretariat will make sure the creation of jobs within the Blackstar Experience is felt amongst the creative industry players with equal opportunities.

FOCAP also observed that, in as much as the launching of the Blackstar Experience was part of his government 120-day social contract, the government had done great by appointing all executive directors and CEOs of the agencies under the Ministry of Tourism Culture and Creative Arts, fixing of Creative Arts Agency website which was fraudulently operated by some individuals, launch of Accra by night, chocolate week, kwahu Paragliding, revitilazation of the creative arts agency, and international mother language day.

FOCAP wishes to alert President Mahama to quickly activate some of the low-hanging fruits within the Blackstar experience manifesto for the creatives.

1- Introduction of tax breaks for Creative Arts artistes who have a TIN (Tax Identification Number)

2- Special event channel for Creative Arts Programmes on digital terrestrial television with pay-per-view

3- Cultural events at Blackstar Square, Accra International Conference Centre and other venues owned by the government to be given at special rates and others to make creatives have a breather.

Kojo Preko Dankwa

President

0550077040

Enoch Agyepong

Vice President, Research

0244712136

Mel Kwesi Davis

Vice President

0205422156

Ghana’s music powerhouse, Black Sherif, has once again placed the nation on the global stage with a nomination at the 2025 BET Awards. The hitmaker, known for blending hard-hitting lyrics with a unique fusion of trap, highlife, and drill, has been shortlisted in the prestigious Best International Act category.

This nomination cements Black Sherif’s position as Ghana’s lone representative at this year’s BET Awards — a feat that not only reflects his meteoric rise but also his international appeal.

The “Sacrifice” crooner will be facing off against some of the hottest names from across the globe, including Ayra Starr and Rema from Nigeria, South Africa’s viral sensation Tyla, Swaziland’s dynamic DJ Uncle Waffles, Brazil’s Gabrielly and MC Luanna, France’s Joé Dwèt Filé and SDM, plus the UK’s Basky and Ezra Collective.

This isn’t Black Sherif’s first dance with the BETs. In 2023, he made history by clinching the Best International Flow award at the BET Hip Hop Awards, becoming only the second Ghanaian to win that honor after Sarkodie in 2019.

With a knack for raw storytelling, emotionally charged lyrics, and massive youth appeal, Black Sherif’s journey has been nothing short of phenomenal. His music continues to resonate across borders, earning him a loyal following from Accra to Atlanta.

About the BET Awards

Launched in 2001 by Black Entertainment Television, the BET Awards celebrate the achievements of Black and minority entertainers across music, film, sports, and philanthropy. Over time, it’s evolved into a global showcase of Black excellence — and African artists are no strangers to the spotlight.

Since introducing the Best International Act: Africa category in 2010, the awards have recognized and elevated African giants like Wizkid, Davido, Burna Boy, Sarkodie, and now — once again — Black Sherif.

Ghanaian artiste Bra Jay welcomes Pauline Ngugi, an ALS Disease advocate from Germany. A Specialist in Intensive Medicine working with ALS Patients in Germany, advocating for African ALS Patients in Africa to get support for Medicine, and Bra Jay is the ALS advocate Ambassador for West Africa.

In a landmark initiative to raise awareness and support for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) treatment in Africa, esteemed Ghanaian artist and Philanthropist, Bra Jay, has joined forces with ALS Africa for a groundbreaking. The event known as the Shaifest seeks to spotlight the urgent need for accessible ALS medications in Africa, while simultaneously promoting African sports and showcasing the wealth of talent the continent has to offer.

ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. While advancements have been made in ALS research and treatments in various parts of the world, access to these lifesaving drugs remains limited in Africa. Through Shaifest, Bra Jay and ALS Africa aim to lobby for improved access to ALS medication across the continent, emphasising the need for equitable healthcare solutions.

“As an artist, I feel a responsibility to use my platform to raise awareness about critical health issues affecting our communities,” said Bra Jay in a press conference before the event. “The Shaifest is not just a celebration of sports and music; it’s a call to action for policy change and support for those battling ALS.”

The Shaifest is a 3-day festival set to take place in Dodowa, Ghana, from 2nd May to 4th May 2025, and it will feature a star-studded lineup of musical performances, sporting events, and community engagement activities. The festival aims to bring together artists, athletes, and advocates, creating a vibrant atmosphere that fosters dialogue around health and wellness in Ghana and Africa as a whole.

In addition to entertainment, the event will host panel discussions featuring medical experts, health advocates, and athletes who will share their insights on the importance of mental and physical health, especially for those living with chronic illnesses like ALS. These conversations are intended to inspire action and collaboration among stakeholders in the health and sports sectors.

“It’s not just about the music or the sports; it’s about creating a movement that prioritises health and wellness,” Bra Jay added. “We want to inspire young people to pursue their dreams, whether that’s in sports, the arts, or healthcare.”

Festival Activities Line Up:

Friday, 2nd May
Clean-up exercise

Football Games and Artist Night
Saturday, 3rd May

A trip to Chenku Waterfalls

Sunday, 4th May