2026 Legacy Expo Opens In Accra

The 2026 Legacy Expo, formerly known as the Africa Makeup and Beauty (AMB) Fair, opened in Accra yesterday with hundreds of exhibitors and industry stakeholders participating in the event.

The three-day expo is being held at the UPSA Auditorium and will end on Friday, June 5, 2026. This year’s event is themed ’10 Years of Impact: The Legacy Era.’

More than 300 exhibitors are showcasing a wide range of products and services at the expo. Participating brands include Sora Cosmetics, Gabri, Flow 360, Makeup Kits Plus, Feel Natural, MLIT Fashion, NASPAP/AARAV, Colourbox and Frederic Patric Parfum, among others.

The opening ceremony attracted several dignitaries, including Prof. Edmund Nminyem Delle Chiir VIII, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Rabito Clinic Limited and Board Chairman of the Expo and Ghana Beauty Awards; Mohamed Hassan Kaisamba, High Commissioner of Sierra Leone to Ghana; actress Martha Ankomah; Madam Janet Sunkwa-Mills, Board Chair of the Beauty Business Chamber; Dr Mrs Juliana Akushika Andoh, Senior Lecturer at the Department of Marketing, UPSA; Sandy Osei-Agyeman, Chief Executive Officer of Slid Industries; and Engr. Dr Stephen Turkson, TVET Consultant and ASTI Council Chairman.

The expo marks 10 years of contributions to Africa’s beauty, cosmetics and wellness industry since its launch in 2016.

Organised by Makeup Ghana and Ace Group, the event has brought together leading brands, entrepreneurs, investors, creatives and policymakers from across Africa and other parts of the world. Industry professionals from countries including South Korea, the United Arab Emirates, Egypt, Turkey, Nigeria and India are participating.

Activities lined up for the expo include product exhibitions, business networking sessions, panel discussions, live demonstrations and startup pitch opportunities for emerging entrepreneurs.

Organisers say the event is aimed at promoting business-to-business partnerships while encouraging discussions on innovation, sustainability and growth within the beauty and wellness industry.

Artists Are Broke, Just Famous – Akon

Senegalese-American singer and entrepreneur, Akon, has claimed that many musicians are not as wealthy as people often believe despite their fame and glamorous public image.

Speaking in an interview with Hip Hop Eye, Akon said artists are usually the last people to benefit financially in the music industry. At the same time, those working behind the scenes often earn more.

According to him, the luxurious lifestyles frequently displayed by musicians on social media and in music videos do not always reflect their financial reality.

‘In the music industry, the artist is the last to get paid. He is the broke one but he is the most famous. If you want to be broke and famous, be the artist,’ he said.

Akon explained that greater financial opportunities exist in other areas of the music business, including production, songwriting, artist management, talent representation and entertainment law.

‘But if you want to make real money, go to other sectors of the music business, like the producer, songwriter, manager, agent and attorney. There are so many areas in the entertainment field that you can really maximise,’ he added.

The singer’s comments have reignited discussions about how revenue is distributed within the music industry and the financial challenges many artists face despite achieving widespread recognition.

Accra Erupts In Worship With Atarah Praise 2026

Hundreds of worshippers gathered at Bayview Village in Accra on Sunday, May 24, for Atarah Praise 2026. Held under the theme ‘Dalet,’ the event brought together believers for an evening of praise, worship and uplifting music.

The programme opened with an energetic performance by gospel minister, Siisi Baido, who got the audience singing and worshipping from the start.

Prophet Atarah later took the stage and introduced a new anthem for Ghana’s national football team, the Black Stars, ahead of the FIFA World Cup. The crowd warmly received the song. He also performed some of his popular songs, keeping the atmosphere lively and inspiring.

Award-winning gospel singer, Piesie Esther, followed with a powerful performance that blended traditional gospel music with worship. Worshippers sang and danced along throughout her set.

Veteran gospel musician, Obaapa Christy, brought the night to a memorable close. Many people remained on their feet, singing and lifting their hands in worship until the end of her performance.

As the event ended, many attendees expressed their desire for a longer programme in future editions. The success of Atarah Praise 2026 has left many worshippers looking forward to an even bigger event next year.

Berekum Gets New Paramount Chief

THE PEOPLE of Berekum last Monday thronged the Omanhene’s Palace and some principal streets of the town to welcome their new Paramount Chief, Odeafour Kyere Diabour Asante II, as he was enstooled and outdoored by the kingmakers of the traditional council.

Odeafour Kyere Diabour Asante II succeeds Daasebre Dr. Amankona Diawuo II, who passed away in 2023.

An overwhelming police presence was present both at the palace and on some of the town’s principal streets during the short and colourful ceremony. As soon as the queen mother, Nana Akosua Ameyaahene II, and council of elders (sub-chiefs) arrived, libation was poured to the ancestors.

Amidst drumming, singing and dancing, the people jubilated and hailed the new chief, saying it is the beginning of a new dawn.

A representative of the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, identified only as Kyeame Bonsu, stated the reason for his presence at the Berekum Omanhene Palace. According to him, all necessary customary rites and tradition regarding choosing a rightful candidate to the Berekum throne have been performed and accepted by Manhyia.

He noted, ‘The queen mother was directed by Otumfuo to follow laid down traditions and customs of the people of Berekum to select the best candidate among the contenders to ascend the throne, saying the rightful person has been selected so today is the day to outdoor the person you have chosen for yourselves (sic).’

Holding a staff as a symbol of authority, Odeafour Kyere Diabour Asante II swore to the kingmakers and elders of the traditional council, and pledged to be of good behaviour as well as continue the good works of his predecessors. He pledged never to depart from tradition and customs of the people, emphasing that failure to abide by the rules should spell his doom (penalty).

Later in an interview with the media, Odeafour Kyere Diabour Asante II said his vision was to unite nananom for sustainable development, encourage a disciplined society, empower the youth through job creation, educational development, as well as ensure good sanitation and peaceful co-existence among all Berekum citizens.

The new Berekumhene is married with two children and is a businessman who prior to his enstoolment was domiciled in Germany.

Manchester United Agree £35m Deal for Atalanta Midfielder Ederson

Manchester United have taken a significant step in their summer rebuilding plans after agreeing a £35 million (pound 40.5 million) deal with Italian side Atalanta for Brazilian midfielder Ederson.

The 26-year-old is expected to undergo a medical in the coming weeks, with the transfer likely to be finalised in early July ahead of United’s return for pre-season training.

United’s move for Ederson highlights the club’s determination to strengthen their midfield options following the departure of veteran Brazilian, Casemiro. The Red Devils are expected to prioritise reinforcements in the centre of the park after focusing heavily on attacking additions during previous transfer windows.

Questions have also been raised over the future of Uruguay international, Manuel Ugarte, who joined from Paris Saint-Germain in 2024 for around £50 million. His lack of involvement towards the end of last season fuelled speculation that he could leave Old Trafford before the transfer window closes in September.

Should Ugarte depart, Ederson’s arrival would leave United with a relatively youthful midfield group that includes Kobbie Mainoo, Mason Mount and captain Bruno Fernandes, all of whom are generally deployed in more advanced roles. As a result, the club could still pursue additional midfield signings before the start of the new campaign.

United may also look within their academy ranks, with promising youngsters Tyler Fletcher and Jacob Devaney viewed as potential long-term options.

Ederson arrives with a strong reputation after impressing during his time at Atalanta. The Brazilian, who has earned three senior international caps, scored 16 goals in 180 appearances for the Serie A club and has demonstrated the versatility to operate in multiple midfield roles.

Meanwhile, United continue to monitor West Ham midfielder Mateus Fernandes. However, no formal offer has been made, with the London club reportedly valuing the player at around £80 million.

The pursuit of Ederson signals the beginning of what could be a busy summer at Old Trafford as United seek to reshape their squad ahead of the new season.

Ohemaa Woyeje Speaks On Relationship With Delay

Ghanaian media personality, Ohemaa Woyeje, has dismissed long-standing rumours of a feud with broadcaster Deloris Frimpong Manso, popularly known as Delay.

In a recent interview with Nana Romeo on Okay FM, Ohemaa Woyeje stated that ‘People claim I have a beef with Delay, but I do not have any problem with her.’ According to her, the public often tried to create the impression that they were not on good terms, but that story is not true.

Ohemaa Woyeje recalled her time working with Delay at Top Radio, describing a respectful and supportive relationship. She said they worked peacefully without any misunderstanding or bad blood during their time at the station. Ohemaa Woyeje disclosed what she believed sparked the beef rumours, saying when Delay decided to leave Top Radio, management had already been informed of her exit.

However, someone later informed management again, which prompted the station to begin preparations for a replacement. Woyeje said the station manager then approached her and asked her to take over Delay’s programme. She accepted the offer despite the pressure and expectations, settled in well, and connected with her listeners.

She noted that most listeners, except for Delay’s die-hard fans, stayed on the show after her exit.

The award-winning presenter added that after she took over the programme, some people in the entertainment industry advised her to be careful of Delay and claimed they did not know what her colleague had discussed with them. Despite those warnings, Ohemaa Woyeje insisted she never had personal issues with Delay and never saw her as an enemy.

Vivo Energy, ATI Sign MoU To Advance Technical Apprenticeship Programme

Vivo Energy Ghana PLC (VEGH), the exclusive distributor and marketer of Shell-branded fuels and lubricants in Ghana, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at its Head Office with the Applied Technology Institute (ATI) to collaborate on a technical apprenticeship initiative under its Mechanic Advocacy Programme aimed at developing the next generation of certified automotive professionals.

The partnership seeks to equip young mechanics within the informal sector with industry-relevant technical expertise through a structured apprenticeship framework that combines classroom instruction with practical, hands-on training.

The initiative is designed to enhance employability, promote professionalism, and foster a strong culture of safety and technical excellence within the automotive industry.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Managing Director of Vivo Energy Ghana, Christian Li, expressed appreciation to ATI for aligning with Vivo Energy Ghana’s commitment to empowering young professionals through skills development.

‘I would like to sincerely thank the Applied Technology Institute for partnering with us in our shared vision to develop the next generation of skilled professionals,’ he stated.

He emphasised the importance of technical competence and safety consciousness in the rapidly evolving automotive and lubricants industry.

‘The automotive and lubricants industry continues to evolve rapidly, creating a growing demand for highly skilled professionals equipped with strong technical capabilities and a firm commitment to safety,’ he added.

Representing ATI, Ing. Emmanuel Kotey Ashie, Principal of the Applied Technology Institute, spoke on the importance of the collaboration and its shared commitment to bridging the gap between academic learning and industry practice.

‘Through this collaboration, our students and employees will benefit from practical training, industrial exposure, innovation, and

skills development aligned with current industry demands. We believe this partnership will strengthen the connection between academic learning and the professional world,’ he said.

Also addressing participants at the signing ceremony, Kerim Kermen, Vice President, Central Lubricants and Commercial, Vivo Energy Group, noted that the partnership aligns with both national development priorities and the broader strategic direction of the lubricants business.

Former ATI students who are now working at various Vivo Energy Ghana retail outlets and lube bays shared their experiences and testimonies during the ceremony stating how the initiative equipped them with practical skills, industry and professional exposure that have contributed to their career development.

Beyond employment opportunities, the programme is also designed to promote entrepreneurship, economic empowerment, job creation, and community development. Graduates will acquire the technical and business skills needed to establish their own automotive workshops, operate lubricant service centres, or serve as distributors and retailers of Shell lubricants.

The partnership reflects Vivo Energy Ghana’s vision to be Africa’s leading and most respected energy business by investing in youth empowerment, creating opportunities, transforming lives, and supporting sustainable national development.

Speaker Rejects Passed Anti- LGBTQ Bill-What’s Right Must Be Done Rightly

Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has effectively invalidated the passage of the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, 2025, and called on Parliament to revisit the legislation over concerns about procedural irregularities during its final approval.

Delivering a statement on the floor of Parliament yesterday, Mr. Bagbin said the circumstances surrounding the bill’s passage on May 29, 2026, had raised serious questions about compliance with the House’s Standing Orders and the integrity of the legislative process.

He stressed that while the bill had been widely supported by Ghanaians and promoted as a bipartisan initiative, Parliament must ensure that legislation of such national importance is passed in strict accordance with established procedures.

According to the Speaker, records of the House show that the bill was taken through the consideration stage, read a third time and passed on the same day.

He noted, however, that Standing Orders 170, 171 and 172 require amendments adopted during the consideration stage to be incorporated into the final text and made available to Members of Parliament (MPs) before the third reading.

He further pointed out that the Standing Orders stipulate that at least one sitting day should elapse between the consideration stage and the third reading of a bill unless the House formally suspends the relevant rules.

‘While the House possesses the power to suspend any Standing Order with the leave of the House, it did not do so this time,’ Mr. Bagbin stated.

The Speaker said concerns had been raised about whether the final amended version of the bill was made available to members before the third reading, enabling them to fully appreciate the exact text on which they were voting.

He also noted complaints from some MPs that amendments adopted during the consideration stage did not fully reflect the recommendations contained in the committee’s report, which had unanimously endorsed the bill.

Mr. Bagbin observed that the proceedings on the day of passage did not reflect the bipartisan consensus that had characterised the bill throughout much of its legislative journey.

‘The Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill 2025 and its implications on the LGBTQ issue is a global concern. Therefore, the eyes of the world are upon this Parliament,’ he said, and added, ‘What we do here must be able to withstand any legal and constitutional challenges that are sure to come.’

The Speaker argued that legislation of such magnitude should command not only majority support but also broad parliamentary confidence in both its content and the process through which it was adopted.

‘What is right must be done rightly,’ he declared.

Mr. Bagbin therefore appealed to Parliament to revisit the bill and reconsider its final text and amendments in a manner that would restore bipartisan consensus and reinforce public confidence in the legislative process.

He maintained that returning to the bill would not amount to rejecting its objectives but would rather demonstrate Parliament’s commitment to due process, transparency, constitutional fidelity and legislative certainty.

‘Accordingly, I respectfully appeal to honourable members to reflect carefully upon the issues raised and to consider, in the larger national interest, the bipartisan character of the bill, the unity of the House and the nation, and the need to maintain the highest standards of procedural integrity,’ he said.

The Speaker expressed confidence that lawmakers would approach the matter with wisdom, patriotism and a shared commitment to preserving the integrity of Parliament and Ghana’s democratic institutions.

The Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, commonly known as the Anti-LGBTQ Bill, was passed by Parliament on May 29 after heated debate and consideration.

GFA Women’s Football Devt Drive Produces 19 New Coaching Prospects

The Ghana Football Association’s (GFA’s) efforts to strengthen women’s football have received another significant boost, with 19 current and former female footballers successfully completing Module One of the FIFA Coach Education Scholarship: All-Female CAF Licence C Coaching Course.

The programme, held at the GFA Technical Centre in Prampram, brought together six active players and 13 retired footballers as part of the Association’s broader strategy to create sustainable career pathways for women within the sport.

The initiative forms a key component of the GFA Women’s Football Strategy, which aims to support female players as they transition from active football into coaching and other technical roles.

By equipping participants with coaching knowledge and qualifications, the programme seeks to ensure that the experience, leadership and expertise gained during their playing careers remain within the women’s game.

Speaking after the completion of the first module, participant Jennifer Ackah highlighted the importance of providing opportunities for players after retirement.

She noted that many valuable lessons and experiences are lost when former players leave the sport without a clear career pathway, adding that coach education offers a structured route for retired footballers to remain involved in developing the next generation.

CAF Instructor and former Black Queens head coach, Mercy Tagoe-Quarcoo also encouraged the participants to use their playing experiences to guide and inspire young female footballers.

According to her, the former players possess invaluable knowledge from their years on the pitch and now have the opportunity to transfer that expertise through coaching, helping bridge the gap between aspiring young talents and future national team success.

The all-female CAF Licence C Coaching Course is designed to increase the number of qualified female coaches in Ghana, improve player retention within the sport and strengthen coaching capacity nationwide.

The latest cohort includes active and retired players from clubs across the country as well as former national team stars.

Those who completed Module One are Jennifer Ackah (FC Samartex Ladies), Juliana Eshun, Dzormo Adzekwei, Fafali Dumehasi, Mohammed Saweiba, Rachael Assefuah, and Eunice Nyamekye Opoku.

The rest are Christabel Tetteh Annan, Asaliba Rosalina, Mohammed Rahama, Leticia Afi Zikpi, Sarah Humble Ayimedu, Theresa Adu-Asante, Alberta Asante, Dejean Kubura, Adongo Veronic, Dorothy Ayikpa, Safia and Dorcas Kumiwah Addei.

The successful completion of the first module marks another important step in the GFA’s mission to develop more female coaches and build a stronger future for women’s football in Ghana.

Sir Kenny Dalglish Reveals Cancer Diagnosis

Scotland and Liverpool legend Sir Kenny Dalglish has revealed he is undergoing treatment for cancer after accidentally making the information public through a social media post.

The 75-year-old said he had hoped to keep the matter private but felt compelled to confirm the diagnosis following the inadvertent disclosure.

‘I am currently undergoing treatment for cancer,’ Dalglish wrote, adding that the treatment is progressing well. He also thanked medical staff for their care and professionalism while asking for privacy for himself and his family.

Dalglish is regarded as one of football’s greatest figures, enjoying remarkable success as both a player and manager. He remains Scotland’s most-capped player with 102 appearances and scored 30 goals for the national team, a record he shares with Denis Law.

His playing career began at Celtic, where he scored 167 goals in 320 appearances and won four league titles and four Scottish Cups before joining Liverpool for a British record fee in 1977.

At Anfield, Dalglish became a club icon, winning three European Cups and eight league titles during a glittering career. He later served as player-manager, guiding Liverpool to further domestic success and helping the club through the aftermath of the Hillsborough disaster.

Dalglish also managed Blackburn Rovers, leading them to the Premier League title in 1995, before later taking charge of Newcastle United, Celtic and Liverpool for a second spell.

Liverpool expressed its support for the former player and manager in a statement, saying the thoughts and best wishes of everyone at the club are with Dalglish and his family.

The announcement comes a day after another Liverpool great, Kevin Keegan, revealed he is battling stage four cancer.