June 2014 – GhanaCelebrities.Com

2014 World Cup: Nigeria’s Super Eagles Fall to France Despite Gallant Display

06/30/2014 8:21 pm

by GC Contributor | Ellen Sackey-Addo Ellen

France dispatched African champions Nigeria 2-0 in stifling heat in the world cup second round game at the Estadio Nacionale in Brasilia.

The first of two Europe vs. Africa challenges was pretty evenly matched for much of the first half, before Nigeria dominated the early part of the second but failure to convert their chances led to their eventual defeat.

Midfielder Paul Pogba’s header in the 79th minute gave France the lead, before a Joseph Yobo own goal sealed Nigeria’s fate just on the 90th minute mark.

The first half was a closely matched affair, with both keepers forced into terrific saves to keep their side in the game.

Nigeria’s Emmanuel Emenike had a goal disallowed for offside in the 18^th minute, tapping in after a great cross from Ahmed Musa. Replays showed he was fractionally offside.

The game started at a dull pace, both sides uninterested in expending too much energy under the midday Brazilian sun. With both sides fielding dangerous wingers, the game was mostly played out wide.

Patrice Evra got away cleanly down the left flank in the 4th minute, but his low cross could not reach Giroud in the middle as Joseph Yobo cut it out for a corner.

Ghanaians Plan 1st July Demonstration- Massive Sit Out In Front of Flagstaff House

06/30/2014 2:47 pm

by GC Contributor | Ellen Sackey-Addo Ellen

Ghanaians are slowly reaching their boiling points although I doubt the present government has any integrity left to recognize the true plight of Ghanaians.

The NDC has been largely termed as clueless , corrupt and insensitive but with the recent fuel shortage and the shameful movement of physical cash in a chartered flight from Ghana to Brazil to pay off players while the average Ghanaian stayed in Ghana struggling on the streets and going home to almost no water, light, amenities and a worsening economic climate, many Ghanaian youth led by local and some abroad have decided to show their displeasure in a way that cannot be missed by anybody.

They have chosen to take their displeasure to the doorstep of the president in a peaceful demonstration termed Occupy FlagStaff House #OccupyFlagstaffHouse.

2014 Brazil World Cup: Africa’s Hope Lies with Super Eagles & Desert Foxes

06/30/2014 2:29 pm

by GC Contributor | Ellen Sackey-Addo Ellen

It’s all or nothing for the remaining African sides in the FIFA world cup tonight when they take to the field for their Round of 16 ties against European opposition.

Nigeria take on Les Bleus of France hoping their superb run so far does not get halted against one of the competition’s most in-form sides. Kickoff is at 16:00 GMT at the Estadio Nacionale in Brasilia.

Algeria’s Desert Foxes have no less a formidable task, billed to face Ghana’s Group G winners Germany at the Beira-Rio stadium in Porto Alegre, kickoff is at 20:00 GMT.

Nigeria has been the best African side at the competition so far, getting through their group with four points after a win over Bosnia-Herzegovina and a draw with Iran. Their only setback was a hard fought 3-2 loss to Argentina, a game in which they pegged back the South American side twice.

Ahmed Musa has been their most exciting player, with the CSKA Moscow winger scoring twice against Argentina, but this Nigerian side are much more than the sum of its parts. Stephen Keshi has built a well-oiled machine which won the 2013 African Cup of Nations and continues to defy the odds.

Chelsea midfielder Mikel Obi pulls his side’s strings from deep in midfield, whilst on the flanks Odemwingie and Musa work hard to supply their bull of a centre forward, Emmanuel Emenike.

VIDEO: The ‘African Stereotyping Syndrome’

06/30/2014 2:18 pm

by GC Contributor | Ellen Sackey-Addo Ellen

Despite the fact that you can easily find out whatever you want to know about Africa and its many countries on the internet, the ‘African stereotyping syndrome’ continues. In fact, you can sometimes be shocked by some of the comments certain educated people make about Africa.

And the 2014 Brazil World Cup has already brought us some of these ignorant or stereotyping comments about Africa/Africans.

Esi of Esi Magic has shared with us a video she made—talking about the ‘African stereotyping syndrome’.

Check out the video below…

Government of Ghana Denied the Creative Arts Sector GHC 3M in 2013 – It Has Not Released A Dime in 2014 Too

06/30/2014 1:25 pm

by GC Contributor | Ellen Sackey-Addo Ellen

The government of Ghana did not release its budgetary allocation to the creative arts industry in 2013 and has this year too, not given a dime after half of the year is gone; GhanaCelebrities.Com has learnt.

Government for the first time made an allocation of GH¢2 million in the 2012 budget for the creative industry under the tenure of our late President, Prof. Evans Fiifi Atta Mills. Disagreement erupted after it emerged that only members of the musicians union accessed the funds. Some players in the movie industry and even other sectors of the music industry were unhappy.

Following the disagreements over the money, President John Dramani Mahama, speaking at a meeting with selected members of the creative industry at the Golden Tulip Hotel in Kumasi ahead of the 2012 general elections, promised to increase government’s budgetary allocation to the sector in order that many will benefit.

He said: “I am just assuring that we are going to make another budgetary allocation more than the amount [that was given] and you have to collectively come out with a blue print for investing it in the best way that will serve our purpose.”

True to Government’s promise, the Finance Minister, Seth Terkper, presenting the 2013 budget to parliament, disclosed that the government has allocated an amount of GH¢3 million to better the lot of the industry – ….“The creative arts industry will be supported with GH¢3 million in 2013,” Mr. Terkper said.

Hollywood Film-Maker to Cash in on Ghana’s $3m World Cup Drama by Making a Movie About It…

06/30/2014 12:52 pm

by GC Contributor | Ellen Sackey-Addo Ellen

It looks like Ghana’s recent World Cup disgrace will forever not be forgotten, as a Hollywood film-maker is set to make a movie, intending to cash in on what happened…

According to The Wrap, an award-winning US writer- Darryl Wharton-Rigby is planning a Hollywood thriller spun off the true and bizarre story of Ghana’s World Cup cash wahala…

Though the movie will be based on the Black Stars’ cash demand and the Government’s airlifting of the cash to Brazil for them, a little will be added to spice the story. Therefore, the plot of the movie will see the $3m stolen after the courier is ambushed. He then has fewer than 12 hours to recover the money or face the wrath of his employers (and presumably the Ghanaian footballers).

Kevin Prince Boateng Speaks | He Says He Was Kicked Out of Black Stars For Asking GFA Boss ‘Where the FIFA Money Given to the Players Went’

06/30/2014 12:35 pm

by GC Contributor | Ellen Sackey-Addo Ellen

There have been several accusations and counter accusations but I’ve always maintained that, there was something behind why Kevin Prince Boateng being kicked out of Black Stars’ camp—and not because he spoke any offensive words towards the coach.

In fact, it has been repeated by Kevin Prince Boateng that, the so called incident with the coach where he was alleged to have used foul language (cited by the GFA as the reason for his indefinite suspension) took place on Sunday. And so if they wanted to punish him for that (assuming it is true that he used such words), why was he not kicked out on Monday or Tuesday but rather, Thursday?

Again, coach-Kwesi Appiah after that Sunday incident said in an interview that, he had a misunderstanding with Kevin Prince Boateng—and that things had been resolved. That was before Thursday’s boot…

According to Kevin Prince Boateng, the real reason he was kicked out is because he asked about what ‘what happened to the money FIFA gave to the Black Stars’.

VIDEO: Nadia Buari & Fally Ipupa Host BET Experience in LA

06/30/2014 12:16 pm

by GC Contributor | Ellen Sackey-Addo Ellen

Ahead of the main BET Awards which took place last night, Ghanaian actress-Nadia Buari and Democratic Republic of Congo’s music star-Fally Ipupa had the opportunity to host Saturday night’s BET Experience in LA for the “Best International Act- Africa”.

The event saw performances from Best International Act- Africa nominees-Ghana’s Sarkodie, Nigeria’s Tiwa Savage and South Africa’s Mafikizolo.

At least Nadia Buari landed a gig and it is quiet interesting she hosted the event alongside Fally Ipupa, considering their history…

And for the main even, Nadia Buari kicked it with the African print…

Check out the video below…

PHOTOS: Juliet Ibrahim in Hot PINK ‘1981 Nana Brenue’ Dress

06/29/2014 9:29 pm

by Comfort Asante, GC Staff Writer

Actress Juliet Ibrahim was spotted few hours ago at Eko Hotel in Lagos where the much talked about Basketmouth’s uncensored concert is taking place and she was looking FAB.

The actress rocked a beautiful floor length A-line hot PINK dress made by ‘1981 Nana Brenue’—which she accessorized with chunky gold earrings…

Even though Juliet Ibrahim kept it classy and well covered, the dress still compliments her figure.

What do you think?

Check below for more photos

Maame Dokono Turns Her Orphanage into Rented Houses – All Because Of STINKING Politics in Ghana

06/29/2014 8:54 pm

by Comfort Asante, GC Staff Writer

In order to have her peace of mind, veteran Ghanaian actress, Grace Omaboe, popularly known as Maame Dokono, has turned all the buildings she used to run her orphanage, into rented apartments.

She said: “Yes, I’ve turned them into rented apartments and it is fetching me more money. I had good intentions for my own country and people but my dreams were shattered. At least now I have my peace. My name is also resting. I will be 70 years very soon so I don’t want any noise and things that will raise my blood pressure. What I need now is a sound mind.

Would Maame Dokono establish another orphanage before she leaves this world? She responded, “Well I can’t say no. As the saying goes, never say never. However, I’m still reaching out to less privileged people in other forms. For instance, I’m part of the team at Royal House who assist the aged, Kayayos – female head porters from the Northern part of Ghana, prisoners and others.

Every Thursday, the aged comes to Royal House. I counsel them, feed them, pray with them, sing and dance with them so that they can also feel loved and accepted in the society. I also look after some blind people in my hometown.

So yes, I may establish another orphanage given all the favourable conditions. In my next attempt, I shall acquire the certificate they wanted me to acquire before I run an orphanage (laughs). I have a vast land in my hometown and in Accra to start another orphanage.”

2014 Brazil World Cup: Late Win for Netherlands Against Stubborn Mexico Puts Them Through to Quarter Finals

06/29/2014 7:06 pm

by GC Staff Sw

Netherlands rallied late to mastermind a come from behind 2-1 victory over Mexico to book their place in the quarter finals.

An uneventful first half ended goalless, but three goals in the 2nd half, two from the Dutch in the last ten minutes; turned the game on its head to ensure they became the first European side to make the quarter finals in Brazil.

World cup finalists in 2010, the Netherlands are gunning for their first world cup title but the odds were not in their favour; the world cup is in South America and no European side have ever won the competition on that subcontinent.

European sides have been dropping like flies at this world cup, and Mexico looked like sending another one on their way as they did most of the early attacking for the better part of the second half.

Left back Miguel Layun had two early shots, either of which barely tested Netherlands goalie Jasper Cillessen.

Nigeria’s Davido Wins 2014 BET African Act Award

06/29/2014 6:02 pm

by Comfort Asante, GC Staff Writer

Nigerian musician-Davido has won the 2014 BET African Act award, beating Ghana’s past winner-Sarkodie, Diamond Platnumz (Tanzania), Mafikizolo (South Africa), Tiwa Savage (Nigeria) and Toofan (Togo).

Davido took to twitter to announce his joy to his fans and thank them for the support, saying, “Thanks to all my fans!! WE WON @BETAwards BEST AFRICAN ACT 2014!! so happy!! Time to party!”.

With the plaque already in Davido’s hands, that should tell you it was once again a backstage presentation…

Researching on BET award scheme earlier this week, GhanaCelebrities.Com discovered that KKD is one of the African Adjudicators for BET’s International Acts – Africa. He explained why BET organizers usually give the plaque or statuette to the African artists off stage:

“First, BET is a huge American brand so their audience is Americans or people living in America. They have a responsibility to their audience, to generate income, pay taxes to the government of America, create employment, promote artistes or performers with their culture, and to be competitive in their market.

Because of all these, they won’t lose what we call ‘the battle for the eye ball.’ So BET is doing us good by giving us (Africans) nominations or awards in their award scheme. BET may create opportunities for Africans by giving us nomination or award, recognize us for our culture or learn from them, but, they do not see us as superior over theirs! They give recognition and praise to their best thinkers, creators, manufacturers, etc.

Already, we don’t see our artistes or musicians as big! We see artistes in UK or America as bigger than our own, so the point is, in as much as we don’t see the greatness in our own; we shouldn’t expect others to see them as such!

GOD MUST BE DEAF: When At All Will Churches in Ghana Stop Making Excessive & Unnecessary Noise?

06/29/2014 5:38 pm

by Comfort Asante, GC Staff Writer

It is yet another Sunday – a day for lot of churches to make unnecessary noise. Cymbals crashing, shakers shaking, drums rolling, topped up with loud shouting. The issue of churches making all sorts of noises is really not a new phenomenon in Ghana. Many rational Ghanaians and non-Ghanaian residents have raised concerns about this issue, yet, we see no positive outcome from the churches.

I’ve got lot of important things to give consideration to as I sit here but a certain loud church in the neighbourhood won’t even allow me to think. A recording studio, perhaps, won’t even be making such a noise—within.

It leaves me to wonder if the pastors and members of the noise-making churches know for a fact that there exists something called pollution and nuisance; which their noisy activities can be classified as noise pollution and nuisance.

Among other things, noise making have been identified to pose health risk to individuals and these perils include hearing mutilation, deafness, hypertension, insomnia, mental disorder and abortion. Some health specialists even indicate that exposure to excessive noise can induce premature ejaculation and lead to cardio vascular ailments.

I’m shocked at how the churches abuse the freedom of other citizens; hitherto, claim to love others. With such unjustifiable and insolent activities, how do you expect someone in his/her right senses to believe you when you preach about love for one’s neighbour?

Why is Resigning Your Post Not a Ghanaian Trait? | Men Have No BALLS…

06/29/2014 12:38 pm

by Comfort Asante, GC Staff Writer

Incompetence and mediocrity are two things in life that should never be rewarded, yet it is the opposite that seems to hold true in Ghana. When a minister who has been given a job, to run Ghana’s campaign in Brazil, returns with unequivocal failure, he is rewarded with a new job- at the Presidency!

When you reside in such a climate, where extenuating circumstances mean people are rarely fired for their failures, finding a person willing to resign their post is a rare thing indeed. Yet in other parts of the world, it is not a strange thing at all. Maybe it is because they know the axe would fall on them sooner or later, but then maybe it’s also because they are humans with dignity, and they realise their failure has made their position going forward untenable.

Because resigning your position takes more guts than soldiering on in failure. Resigning implies you recognise your failures, that you are man enough to take responsibility for your actions. If you are prepared to bask in the joy that success brings, why should you not also pay for the ignominy of failure?

In the wake of Italy’s disastrous world cup campaign, manager Cesare Prandelli and FIGC (Italy’s Football Federation) President Gincarlo Abete both resigned from their positions. This occurred barely two days after their exit, with both men accepting responsibility for the failure in Brazil and recognising that fresh blood was needed to set Italian football straight.

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