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Photos: Africa International Film Festival kicks off with a star-studded opening
The Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF,) the biggest film gathering this side of the Atlantic, kick-started its 7th Season in spectacular style, at a ceremony heavy on star wattage, Sunday night, at the Genesis Deluxe Cinemas, The Palms, Lekki, Lagos. This year, there was a double dose of films, as the opening night selection consisted of one short film, ‘Waiting for Hassana’, an ode to the missing Chibok girls, abducted from their secondary school in 2014, directed by Ifunanya Maduka, and the Zambian entry, ‘I am not a Witch’, helmed by Rungano Nyoni. Both films were selected on the strength of their merits, as they highlight important topical social issues relating to African children. Kemi Lala Akindoju, Wale Ojo, Uche Jombo, Linda Ejiofor, Hilda Dokubo and Funlola Aofiyebi-Raimi were some of the A-list stars who made their appearance on the red carpet. Others dignitaries include filmmakers and film entrepreneurs such as Biola Alabi, Peace Anyiam-Osigwe, Fred Amata, Zick Zulu Okafor, Kunle Afolayan, CJ Obasi, Belinda Yanga, Kenneth Uphopho, as well as media personalities like Shaibu Husseini and Ameyaw Debrah from Ghana. Delegates from around the world were welcomed by the Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed who expressed his administration’s willingness to support the creative industry through grants, tax breaks and funding opportunities. Mr. Herbert Wigwe, patron of the festival and Managing Director of Access Bank, which returns as lead sponsor pledged his- and his bank’s- support for filmmakers, especially through the AFRIFF/Accelerate Filmmakers Project, an initiative set up to help aspiring youthful filmmakers fast track their ideas and nurture them to reality. Wigwe also stressed the importance of film as a powerful tool for Africans to tell their own stories, separate from the usual story of poverty that has been championed by the Western media. Representing the Governor of Lagos state, Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr. Steve Ayorinde, welcomed delegates to the centre of excellence and positioned AFRIFF as ‘’one of the leading creative platforms in Africa that has been consistent, truly awe inspiring and which has found the Lagos arty landscape compatible with its own vision.’’ Introducing the opening night films, former governor of Akwa Ibom state and current Senate Minority Leader, Senator Godswill Akpabio gave a lengthy account of his efforts to bring the exaggerated problem of witchcraft, associated to children in the state to an end. According to Akpabio, his administration had succeeded through education, convictions and rehabilitation in halting the dangerous trend. Also speaking at the event, French Consul General, Lagos, Mr. Laurent Polonceaux said; “This is a great opportunity for us because this is the first time that the French government is involved with Africa. We will be having two days at the festival for French films, with possibility of co-production with Nigeria and Africa.” He noted that it was good that the festival will be closing with the French film, ‘Felicite’, and disclosed that arrangement has been made to have about 70 film students for further training in France as an exchange programme with AFRIFF. The Africa International Film Festival is an annual week-long, all-encompassing world class showcase running from October 29 to November 4, 2017. About 200 carefully curated feature length, short, documentary and student films will be screened this year. The festival also encompasses talent development classes, industry workshops and inspiring creative discussions. [caption id="attachment_114653" align="aligncenter" width="1000"] Mahmood Ali-Balogun, Chioma Ude, Alhaji Lai Mohammed and Fidelis Anosike[/caption] [caption id="attachment_114652" align="aligncenter" width="1000"] L-R. Kunle Afolayan, Jay Franklin and Don Omope[/caption] [caption id="attachment_114651" align="aligncenter" width="1000"] L-R. Funa Maduka, Chioma Ude, Kunle Afolayan, Hilda Dokubo and Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Steve Ayorinde[/caption] [caption id="attachment_114650" align="aligncenter" width="683"] Information and Culture Minister, Alhaji Lai Mohammed and Chioma Ude, AFRIFF Founder & Executive Director[/caption] [caption id="attachment_114649" align="aligncenter" width="683"] Biola Alabi[/caption] [caption id="attachment_114648" align="aligncenter" width="1000"] AFRIFF Patron & MD Access Bank, Mr. Herbert Wigwe and AFRIFF Founder, Chioma Ude[/caption] [caption id="attachment_114647" align="aligncenter" width="683"] AFRIFF Founder, Chioma Ude and Information and Culture Minister, Alhaji Lai Mohammed[/caption]]]>
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New Song Release: “Good News” Offers Hope and Encouragement to the world
Today marks the release of a powerful new song titled “Good News,” featuring A.A. Prempeh, Sonnie Badu, MOG, and Abba Praise. This uplifting anthem delivers a message of hope and encouragement to listeners across the World.
“Good News” is a prophetic song, boldly proclaiming that this year is destined to be one filled with blessings and breakthroughs. With its infectious rhythm and inspiring lyrics, the song aims to uplift spirits and instill a sense of optimism in the hearts of all who hear it.
listen https://lnkfi.re/AAPrempehgoodnews
“We wanted to create a song that would speak directly to the struggles and challenges facing our world today,” says A.A. Prempeh, one of the artists behind the track and Also a major Prophet who operates globally “In a time where many are facing uncertainty, we believe that ‘Good News’ will serve as a beacon of hope, reminding people that better days are ahead.”
Sonnie Badu, known for his soul-stirring vocals and powerful stage presence, adds, “Music has the power to heal and uplift, and we hope that ‘Good News’ will touch the lives of listeners in profound ways. Our goal is to spread positivity and encouragement throughout the nations.”
MOG and Abba Praise, stars in the Ghanaian music scene, lent their unique talents to the song, contributing to its vibrant and uplifting sound.
“Good News” is now available on all major streaming platforms, including Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube. The artists encourage people everywhere in the world to listen, share, and embrace the message of hope and encouragement contained within the song.
As the world faces its fair share of challenges, “Good News” serves as a timely reminder that brighter days are on the horizon. Through the power of music and prophecy, A.A. Prempeh, Sonnie Badu, MOG, and Abba Praise are spreading a message of hope and positivity that resonates with listeners from all walks of life.
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Watch: Exclusive Photos and videos from Akwaboah’s White Wedding
Following a colourful traditional wedding ceremony on Friday, May 3, 2024, in Accra, Ghanaian Highlife sensation, Gladstorm Kwabena Akwaboah Jnr and his better half, Theresa are climaxing their nuptial knot with a glamorous white wedding. (more…)
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Highlights from Medikal’s spectacular show at London’s O2 Indigo
Ghanaian rapper Medikal made an impressive debut at London’s O2 Indigo with a sold-out show, featuring performances from a lineup of industry heavyweights like Sarkodie, Shatta Wale, Efya, Bisa Kdei, Jay Bhad, and more. (more…)
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Jah Lead releases new song ‘Shame on You’
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Oheneyere Mercy Aseidu, Gifty Anti, Stacy Amoateng, and other celebrities grace Akwaboah Jnr’s Traditional Wedding
The traditional wedding of Renowned Ghanaian Highlife singer-songwriter Akwaboah Jnr and his wife, Theresa was a star-studded affair, with a constellation of Ghanaian celebrities gracing the occasion to celebrate the union of love and culture. (more…)
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