Category: Daily Guide Network

EMY Africa has announced the EMY Africa Washington, D.C. Soirée, a high-level gathering set for Thursday, June 25, 2026, at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African Art, one of the most prestigious cultural institutions in the world.

The event will bring together some of the most influential African leaders, entrepreneurs, policymakers, investors, creatives, diplomats, and change makers from across the continent and the global diaspora.

Positioned against the backdrop of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, one of the world’s largest global events, the soirée is expected to become one of the most significant African diaspora convenings taking place in the United States during the tournament period.

The event will serve as a powerful platform for forging strategic partnerships, strengthening economic and cultural ties, and advancing conversations about Africa’s growing influence on the world stage.

The Washington, D.C. gathering marks a major milestone in EMY Africa’s international expansion and underscores the organisation’s vision of building a globally connected African community united by excellence, innovation, leadership, and impact.

For more than a decade, EMY Africa has established itself as one of the continent’s leading platforms for recognising and celebrating excellence.

Through its prestigious awards, leadership forums, cultural initiatives, and strategic engagements, the organisation has honoured individuals whose achievements are transforming industries, shaping policy, driving innovation, and elevating Africa’s global profile.

Now, with its focus turning to Washington, D.C., EMY Africa is extending that mission beyond the continent’s borders, creating a unique space where Africa’s most influential voices and its worldwide diaspora can connect, collaborate, and help shape the future of African development and global engagement.

The soirée comes at a time when Africa’s diaspora is increasingly recognised as a critical force in investment, innovation, diplomacy, culture, and economic growth.

From Washington and New York to London, Toronto, and beyond, Africans across the world continue to drive global progress while maintaining strong connections to their heritage and communities across the continent.

Hosting the event at the renowned National Museum of African Art further elevates the significance of the occasion.

As one of the world’s foremost institutions dedicated to preserving and celebrating African art, culture, and history, the venue provides an iconic setting for an evening focused on African achievement, influence, and opportunity.

Founder and Executive Director, Daniel Kojo Soboh said ‘EMY Africa Washington Soirée at the Smithsonian during the FIFA World Cup is more than a celebration, it is a powerful bridge connecting Africa with its diaspora across North America and the United States.’

He added that ‘at a time when the world’s attention is on this region, we have a unique opportunity to showcase African excellence, strengthen cultural and economic ties, and deepen the bonds that unite Africans and people of African heritage globally.’

Former Ghana Ambassador to Germany, Gina Ama Blay, has been honoured by the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) for her outstanding contribution to journalism, media development and the advancement of women in the media profession.

The recognition formed part of activities marking this year’s World Press Freedom Day (WPFD) celebration held in Accra under the theme, ‘Shaping a Future at Peace: Promoting Press Freedom for Human Rights, Development and Security.’

Mrs. Blay received a customised award plaque and citation in recognition of her decades of service to the nation’s media industry and her advocacy for greater female participation in journalism and media management.

According to the citation, she played a pioneering role in breaking barriers for women in the profession and contributed significantly to media development, democratic discourse and public communication in the country.

‘You broke barriers and opened doors for many women seeking careers in journalism and media management. Your contribution to media development, democratic discourse, and public communication has left a lasting and indelible mark on our national life and the lives of Ghanaians,’ part of the citation stated.

The citation further praised her diplomatic service, describing it as a reflection of the integrity, patriotism and commitment that characterised her journalism career.

The event also honoured several distinguished personalities under the GJA’s Dedication and Valour Award category for their contributions to journalism, media education and national development.

Among the recipients were Benedict Batabe Assorow, veteran journalist and former Editor of The Catholic Standard; Kwabena Yeboah, renowned sports broadcaster; Kofi Badu, former Managing Director of Graphic Communications Group Limited; Gamel Nasser Adam; and Prof. Kofi Agyekum, a renowned linguist and media commentator.

Posthumous honours were also conferred on Abubakari Sidick Ahmed and Nana Kwame Korang in recognition of their invaluable contributions to journalism and public service.

Other awardees included Amin Alhassan, Omane Antwi and Kofi Totobi Quakyi, who were recognised for their contributions to media development, governance and capacity building.

The GJA also honoured media executives including Beatrice Agyeman, Ken Ansah and Fada Dickson Narh for their leadership and role in strengthening the nation’s media industry.

Institutions recognised for supporting journalism and national development included Graphic Communications Group Limited, The Catholic Standard, Bank of Ghana, Ghana News Agency and Kempinski Hotel Gold Coast City Accra.

Speaking at the event, the GJA President, Albert Kwabena Dwumfour, said Ghana had made significant progress in press freedom, citing the country’s rise from 52nd to 39th position globally in the 2026 World Press Freedom Index and its current ranking as fourth in Africa.

He attributed the achievement to the collective efforts of journalists, editors, media owners, civil society organisations, development partners and democratic institutions committed to protecting media freedom.

Mr. Dwumfour, however, cautioned that the improved ranking should not obscure the challenges journalists continue to face.

According to him, threats to press freedom have evolved beyond direct censorship and now include Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation (SLAPPs), digital surveillance, economic pressures on media organisations, online harassment and attacks on journalists covering sensitive issues such as illegal mining, corruption and politics.

‘If Ghana is to remain the beacon of press freedom in West Africa, then we must protect journalists not only in principle and law, but also in practice,’ he said.

The Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Samuel Nartey George, who represented President John Dramani Mahama, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to media freedom and freedom of expression.

He said no journalist had been killed, forced into exile or had a media organisation shut down for critical reporting under the current administration.

‘We remain committed to building bridges between the government and the media fraternity, and not walls. Constructive engagement, regular press briefings and transparent communication are not concessions. They are obligations of democratic governance, and this administration takes them seriously,’ he stated.

Teenager Mirra Andreeva beats Polish qualifier Maja Chwalinska to become the youngest woman to win the French Open since Monica Seles 34 years ago.

Mirra Andreeva lived up to the hype and came of age by sealing her maiden Grand Slam title at the French Open at the age of 19.

Eighth seed Andreeva ended the run of 114th-ranked Polish qualifier Maja Chwalinska with a 6-3 6-2 victory at Roland-Garros.

The Russian became the youngest player to win the women’s singles title since Monica Seles, who was 18 when she landed her third straight French Open in 1992.

Chwalinska was attempting to become the first qualifier to capture the title in Paris.

Russia’s Andreeva, who lives and trains in France, may not have had the majority of the crowd behind her – perhaps in part because of the political landscape and perhaps because of her opponent’s underdog status – but there is no doubt she is a phenomenal talent and a worthy Grand Slam champion.

When a final winner landed in the corner, Andreeva, who is also the first Russian female grand slam singles champion since Maria Sharapova here in 2014, dropped to her knees in celebration.

‘You’re a very tricky opponent. Wouldn’t want to play you one more time. No, it’s okay. I hope we play ?many more finals in the future,’ Andreeva said during the trophy ceremony.

Unilever Ghana PLC today held its Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Accra, bringing together shareholders, the Board of Directors, and Management to review the Company’s performance for the financial year ended 31 December 2025 and to provide updates on operations, governance, and strategic direction.

The Chairman of the Board, Mr. Charles Nimako, noted that despite a challenging global environment characterized by slowing growth, inflationary pressures, geopolitical tensions, and trade uncertainties, Ghana’s economy demonstrated strong resilience in 2025. He highlighted the country’s improved macroeconomic performance, marked by strong GDP growth, easing inflation, currency appreciation, and strengthened investor confidence, which created a more supportive operating environment for businesses.

The Managing Director of Unilever Ghana PLC, Mr. Christopher Wulff-Caesar reported broad-based portfolio growth, with Personal Care recording 12.1% underlying sales growth driven by Oral Care and Skin Cleansing. The Beauty and Well-being category delivered strong performance, with Vaseline achieving a double-digit growth of 53.4% growth. Home Care returned to growth at 5.0%, supported by Comfort and Omo Auto, while Nutrition grew by 2.2%, with a continued focus on volume-led growth in 2026.

The Company reported a profit of GHS 94 million for 2025 compared to GHS 58 million in 2024, with cash position improving to GHS 210 million from GHS 97 million within the same period.

Sustainability initiatives continued under the Growth Action Plan, focusing on plastics, nature, and livelihoods, including plastic waste collection, community training, and livelihood support programs across Ghana.

The Company also announced changes to its Board of Directors, including the appointment of six new Directors inclusive of the Board Chair following the completion of tenure of the exited Board members. The Board reaffirmed its commitment to strong corporate governance and effective oversight of the Company.

The Board Chairman, Mr. Charles Nimako, expressed appreciation to shareholders for their continued confidence and reaffirmed the Company’s commitment to delivering sustainable growth, operational efficiency, and long-term shareholder value.

Mr. Wulff-Caesar reiterated the company’s commitment to delivering consistent, competitive, profitable, and sustainable growth, with continued focus on Power Brands across key categories, Route to Market strategy and innovation pipeline as key drivers of future growth.

Unilever Ghana PLC expressed appreciation to shareholders for their continued support and participation in the AGM.

Doctors at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) in Kumasi have declared a strike action following an emergency meeting of their association.

In a statement announcing the action, the doctors expressed disappointment over what they described as efforts to manage challenging conditions at the hospital, including congestion at the Emergency Department and other operational difficulties.

The statement, signed by the Chairman of the Komfo Anokye Doctors’ Association, Dr. Michael Leat, took exception to the suspension of the Chief Executive Officer of KATH by the Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh.

The meeting resolved to commence the strike action yesterday at 6:00 a.m.

The doctors further resolved not to call off the strike until the suspension of the CEO is reversed.

They also demanded that the Board issue clear policies regarding the management of situations where the hospital’s emergency capacity has been exceeded.

They said such policies should provide explicit guidance on patient overflow and the circumstances under which admissions may be restricted in the interest of patient safety.

The doctors further called on the Ministry of Health to provide clear timelines for the retooling of KATH and other hospitals in the Ashanti Region to ease the burden on healthcare facilities.

They added that their action is not intended to undermine healthcare delivery but rather to draw national attention to issues of patient and caregiver safety, clinical governance, professional accountability, and the sustainability of healthcare services at Ghana’s second-largest teaching hospital.

They also urged the Board to advocate interventions to address overcrowding at the hospital.

Musician, Fancy Gadam, has confirmed that he and his wife, Queen Meela, are no longer together.

Speaking in an interview with G Face, on ‘The Trender’ show, the musician said he is now single.

‘I am not married anymore; I am single. I have seen people asking why my wife was not there and why she was not promoting the programme. We are no more,’ he said.

Fancy Gadam explained that their separation was the reason Queen Meela did not attend or promote his recent show in Tamale.

He, however, said there is no bad blood between them. According to him, they have a child together and continue to maintain a good relationship.

‘We are no more, but we have a child together, and there is no problem between us,’ he added.

The musician did not reveal the reason for their separation but stressed that they remain peaceful and focused on raising their child together.

The Tamale Circuit Court, presided over by Francis Asobayire, has sentenced Napari Baba Nindow to three years’ imprisonment with hard labour for possession of restricted drugs without lawful authority.

The convict was arrested on June 2, 2026, by the Northern Regional Special Operations Team, popularly known as ‘Red Maria,’ at Savelugu in the Northern Region.

He was found in possession of quantities of narcotic drugs suspected to be Indian hemp, as well as Tramadol, a restricted drug.

He was subsequently arraigned before the Tamale Circuit Court, where he pleaded guilty to the charges during proceedings.

The convict is currently being held in police custody pending the completion of mandatory health screening procedures, after which he will be transferred to prison custody to commence serving his sentence.

Founder and Leader of the International God’s Way Church, Bishop Daniel Obinim, has said that his wife, Florence Obinim, should not be involved in arranging his funeral when he dies.

According to the controversial preacher, disputes that followed the deaths of some prominent Ghanaian figures influenced his decision.

He cited the funerals of the late highlife legend, Charles Kojo Fosu, and the late church leader, Anthony Kwadwo Boakye, as well as ongoing disagreements over the funeral plans for the late Kwadwo Safo, as examples.

Speaking to his congregation in a viral video, Obinim said he has already made arrangements to prevent confusion after his death.

‘I have said that when I die, my family should attend the funeral but should not be part of the funeral arrangements,’ he stated.

He explained that his wife’s role should only be to observe widowhood rites and not take part in planning the funeral.

‘She is the only wife I have, so her responsibility should be to perform her widowhood rites and not run my funeral arrangements,’ he said.

Obinim revealed that he wants his biological children and members of his church, whom he referred to as the ‘Abroso Family’, to take charge of his funeral. He added that his wishes have already been included in his will.

The bishop also directed his relatives not to interfere in the funeral arrangements.

‘The only people who can fix my funeral dates and make arrangements are my biological children and the Abroso Family,’ he stressed.

Obinim further suggested that there are unresolved issues in his marriage, claiming that Florence Obinim had not contacted him after his comments became public.

‘Since she heard about the issue, she has not called or texted me to ask about it. She is simply talking publicly about it,’ he said.

Meanwhile, Florence Obinim has responded to her husband’s remarks. Speaking in a radio interview, the gospel musician said she was not surprised by his comments.

‘What I will tell him is, may God bless him for saying what he feels. It would have been painful for him to keep it to himself, but for him to say it publicly, I will say God bless him,’ she said.

When asked whether she would attend his funeral if he died before her, Florence replied, ‘For that, let us put it on hold.’

The Minister of Finance, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, has been named the Overall Best Performing Minister at the 6th Ghana Minister of the Year Awards, in recognition of what organisers described as his distinguished service and performance at the Ministry of Finance.

The awards ceremony, held at the La Palm Royal Beach Hotel in Accra, celebrated excellence in public service, dedication and impactful leadership in governance during the 2025 review period.

The event brought together political leaders, ministers of state, Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs), heads of public institutions and other distinguished guests to honour public officials who have demonstrated exceptional performance, innovation and commitment to national development.

Organisers said the awards scheme seeks to promote accountability and excellence in governance while recognising individuals and institutions that have made significant contributions to public administration. The awards also celebrate innovation, gender inclusion and youth leadership in public service.

According to the organisers, Dr. Forson’s recognition is premised on his leadership and contribution to the nation’s economic management and fiscal policy implementation.

Several ministers were also honoured in the Best Performing Minister category. They included the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa; the Minister of Education, Haruna Iddrisu; the Minister of Food and Agriculture, Eric Opoku; the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah; and the Minister of Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare.

In the deputy ministerial category, Dorcas Affo-Toffey and Dr. Justice Srem-Sai received awards for their contributions to governance and public service.

The Greater Accra Regional Minister, Linda Obenewaa Akweley Ocloo, was adjudged the Best Regional Minister of 2025, while Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa received the Best Young Minister of the Year award.

The Minister for Energy and Green Transition, Dr. John Abdulai Jinapor, was named Best Innovation Minister of the Year. Rita Akosua Adjei Awatey was recognised as Best Female Minister of the Year, while Eric Opoku received the Best Male Minister of the Year award.

The Ministry of Energy and Green Transition emerged as the Best Government Ministry of the Year for its role in driving innovation and policy implementation within the sector.

At the local government level, Michael Kpakpo Allotey was honoured as Best Metropolitan Chief Executive of the Year. Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor received the Distinguished Parliamentary Service Award, while Kwame Obeng Asare, popularly known as A Plus, was named Most Impactful New Member of Parliament.

Prof. George Agyei was recognised as Best Performing CEO of the Year. Other public officials honoured in various CEO categories included Christopher Boadi-Mensah, Sylvester Mensah, Prof. Ransford Gyampo, Ruth Dela Seddoh, Julius Neequaye Kotey and Simon Madjie.

The Ga Mantse, King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, was among the dignitaries who attended the event.

Creative director and cultural strategist, Kelvin Vincent says Ghana’s challenge isn’t fashion – it’s how we value red carpet representation and the creative sector as a whole.

In a recent statement, Vincent argued that glamour is often dismissed as vanity, but it functions as a strategy.

‘We think that glamour is vanity, but it can also be used as a strategy. Then we get upset when international audiences overlook us,’ he said.

He pointed to Nigeria’s dominance on global red carpets, citing their presentation at the recent Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA).

‘Nigerians have mastered cultural exports with their red carpet, their presentation, and their visibility. Look at how most of them nailed it at the recent AMVCA, not because they are more talented than we Ghanaians, but because they understand that perception and image is part of power,’ Vincent stated.

Vincent said red carpets are often underwhelming in Ghana because the industry treats them like side attractions instead of business opportunities.

‘It can be exhausting preparing for the red carpet, but it’s all part of the industry, it’s part of our culture,’ he noted.

He stressed that red carpets now drive entire creative ecosystems. ‘If you remove red carpets from award shows, some award shows will collapse because it’s no longer just fashion anymore – it’s marketing, it’s branding, it’s global visibility, it’s a multi-million dollar ecosystem. Designers get booked, stylists get visibility, photographers, makeup – it’s a whole creative economy.’

According to Vincent, global brands watch these moments before investing in celebrities or labels.

He added that audiences remember visuals more than awards: ‘Let’s be honest, half of the people who are saying we should focus on the awards can’t even name Vocalist of the Year or Album of the Year from two or three years ago, but they can tell you what people wore. That tells us something about culture. Human beings, we are visual creatures.’

Vincent also pushed back on criticism that red carpets require expensive clothes, saying, ‘If our industry fully understood the economic power sitting on these red carpets, we’ll stop treating them like side attractions and start treating them like global businesses and opportunities.’