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AMVCA Remains One of The Biggest Celebration Of Film Talent & Creativity Across Africa

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24 African actors and 44 filmmakers from various countries were announced as nominees for the 7th edition of the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA), which has been hailed as Africa’s biggest celebration of film and TV talent on the continent. A total of 43 films released between April 1, 2018 and November 30, 2019, received nominations.

The nominations packed a varied crew of creatives and technical support staff into honour groups, where they stand a chance to win the coveted AMVCA statuette in recognition of their outstanding performances which have contributed to the growth of the industry. Several of your favourite movies received a mention, along with movies that although critically sound and daring struggle to attract mass attention and viewership due to the small size of their market or distribution constraints.

The movies, Living in Bondage: Breaking Free and God Calling both led with 11 nominations each in categories including; Best Director, Best Picture Editor and Best Cinematographer. Other entries with multiple nominations include Seven, King of Boys and Ratnik with seven nominations each and Elevator Baby with six.

In the acting categories, Zainab Balogun pulled a Scarlet Johansson by scoring two nominations for Best Actress in a Drama (Movie/TV Series) for her performances in God Calling and SylviaRamsey Nouah scooped three acting nominations for his performances in Merry Men 1, Living in Bondage: Breaking Free, and Levi. Gloria Sarfograbbed Ghana’s sole nomination for Best Supporting Actress in a Movie or TV Series for her role in Perfect Picture: 10 Years Later.

The regional award categories also throw up some interesting names, with stiff competition for the honours. Best Southern Africa movie category has Philippe Talavera’s ‘Dalitso’ coming up against Cassie Kabwikta’s ‘Kwacha’ and The Beautiful Hen Behind Yao Mountain by Imran Kaisi. The Best West Africa movie category is another frontier for the heavy hitters. Ratnik, Seven, and Living In Bondage: Breaking Free, pitting Dimeji Ajibola, Steve Gukas, and Tosin Igho against each other. Meanwhile, movies slugging it out for the Best East African movie nod include Disconnect, Lost In Time, Plan B and 94 Terror.

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 Origins

Since inception in 2013, the AMVCAs have celebrated contributions of African filmmakers, actors and industry specialists in the continued growth of the continent’s film and television industry. It lives up to one of the MultiChoice’s pillars of being the most-loved African storyteller.

The inaugural Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards ceremony was held in Lagos, Nigeria on March 9, 2013, and was broadcast live in more than 50 countries. Entries into the award ceremony were films and TV series which received airtime in the previous year. At the start, the award ceremony came at a time when Africa needed a unifying reward system for the creative work done in multiple markets. Nollywood, Nigeria’s gargantuan film industry, Ghana’s Ghallywood, and the creators in Francophone Africa were serviced with a myriad of awards, but no platform possessed the range, credibility and systems to curate, rate and award locally produced movies, onscreen stars and the technical team behind the magic.

Co-hosted by former Big Brother Africa presenter IK Osakioduwa and Vimbai Mutinhiri, the first AMVCA marched straight out with a bang. Apart from pulling in and uniting the creative markets, it introduced symbolic awards, with newbie Ivie Okujaiye and Olu Jacobs honoured with the TrailBlazer and Industry Merit Awards respectively.

Since then, it has grown into the biggest rewarder of talent across the continent. Subsequent years have seen a growth in the number of categories, and expansion into niche markets and content. This inclusive approach to rewarding talents ensures meaningful representation of the continent’s brightest.

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Check out the award categories for the seventh edition. Apart from the designated popular categories such as Best Actor and Best Actress in a Drama which are determined by open voting by viewers, regional and niche categories ensure that the celebration goes deep and wide. The Best Indigenous Language category embraces ethnic languages including Hausa, Igbo, Yoruba, Swahili. Niche pictures which might never receive popular acclaim, including Timothy Conrad’s Sema (Swahili), Abubakar Bashir’s Mariya (Hausa)and Paul Igwe’s Nekwa (Igbo)all have a shot at an equal celebration. The regional awards further push the inclusivity. East, West and Southern Africa all have entrants for the big night.

MultiChoice Talent Factory

The seventh edition of the AMVCAs also includes a brand-new category: The MultiChoice Talent Factory Award. Entries in this category are products of The MultiChoice Talent Factory, a shared-value initiative that provides a platform for the creative industries to develop their talent and engage with one another through their shared passions. It recognizes films made by students from across the continent in a judge-led category.

Two movies produced by the inaugural class of the MultiChoice Talent Factory West Africa and titled, Life of Bim and Dream Chaser, made the nomination list. The movies were nominated alongside Ensulo and Promises (East Africa), Savannah Skies and The Painting (Southern Africa).

The new award category aims to reward excellence in storytelling and provide a platform for the alumni of MTF academies, which was launched in May 2018 to create a pipeline of skilled and talented movie professionals that produce high quality locally relevant content that resonate with African viewers.

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“I am excited about the new MTF category in the AMVCA because it showcases the AMVCA’s commitment to the importance of professional training as a critical factor towards enabling richer storytelling,” said Femi Odugbemi, the MTF West Africa Academy Director and Head Judge of the seventh AMVCAs.

 The Future

On Thursday, February 13, 2020, MultiChoice Namibia in Windhoek hosted the first screening of the film Kukuri in order to celebrate its nomination for the seventh AMVCA. The 48-minute long documentary was directed and produced by Philippe Talavera. It was filmed in Namibia’s Kavango and Zambezi regions, and it confronts the damaging effect and injustice of child marriages. Families in rural areas often adapt a tradition where they marry their daughters to older men at a juvenile age due to economic challenges.

Think about this: Namibia is a country in Southwest Africa, which is distinguished by the Namib Desert along its Atlantic Ocean coast, with a population of slightly over 2.5 million people (World Bank). It doesn’t boast of a comparatively large market and audience. But that doesn’t matter. Trust the AMVCA to give fair opportunity to these creators, and include them into their consideration, rewarding local production on an international stage.

With AMVCA, your location or size of your market is not an impediment. Everyone is a big shot and has a shot at the prize.

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AMVCA’s vision of inclusion is their strongest suit. By expanding their scope of consideration, they have created a credible system which is representative of the continent and goes deep into less influential regions to recognize and celebrate creatives. Inclusivity in African art can be a tricky business. How far can you go? What regions or art can balance local storytelling with global themes? But AMVCA navigates these constraints effortlessly, cementing their place with each edition, as the biggest celebration of film and television talent across Africa.

 

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Hayati Vape Series: Unveiling the Pro Ultra 15000, Pro Max 4000, and Remix 2400 Models | Vape Online Store

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The vaping landscape is evolving with an array of devices designed to cater to diverse user preferences, and among the many contenders, the Hayati brand has established a notable presence. The Hayati Vape line includes a variety of products, such as the Hayati Pro Ultra 15000, the Hayati Pro Max 4000, and the Hayati Remix 2400. The Hayati Pro Ultra 15000, known for its high puff count, incorporates innovative double e-liquid tank technology, satisfying the needs of users who value longevity and convenience.

 

In addition to the impressive capacity, the Hayati Pro Ultra 15000 characterizes versatility through a broad spectrum of over 30 flavors, catering to a wide range of taste preferences. Smaller devices in the lineup, such as the Hayati Pro Max 4000 and the Hayati Remix 2400, provide users with more compact options while still delivering a quality experience. These devices demonstrate the brand’s commitment to meeting the diverse requirements of its user base, from those seeking extended vape sessions to those favoring portability and flavor variety.

 

Key Takeaways

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Hayati offers a range of disposable vape products catering to different user needs.

The Hayati Pro Ultra 15000 is notable for its high puff count and flavor variety.

Smaller devices like the Hayati Pro Max 4000 and Hayati Remix 2400 offer portability and convenience.

Overview of Hayati Vape Products

Hayati Vape has established a diverse lineup of disposable vape products, catering to a broad spectrum of preferences and vape experiences. Their offerings include the high-capacity Pro Ultra Series, the conveniently sized 4000 products, and the Remix Series, designed for portability and flavor variety.

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Hayati Pro Ultra Series

The Hayati Pro Ultra Series stands out for its high puff count and advanced technological features. The Hayati Pro Ultra 15000 offers an impressive 15000 puffs per device with a rechargeable 550mAh battery. It is known for its double E-liquid tank system, providing an extensive range of over 30 flavors. Some devices in this series come with a visual display panel allowing users to easily monitor their vape usage.

 

Hayati 4000 Products

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Hayati 4000 represents a more compact product range in comparison to the Ultra Series, featuring a smaller form factor while still delivering a satisfactory number of puffs. The Hayati Pro Max 4000 and similar variants include a prefilled 10ml e-liquid capacity and maintain the quality vaping experience Hayati is known for.

 

Hayati Remix Series

The Hayati Remix Series is designed with portability in mind. Devices like the Hayati Remix 2400 are smaller and more discreet, geared towards vapers who prioritize ease of use and flavor experimentation. With a puff count of 2,400, these devices offer an enjoyable vaping experience for those on-the-go.

 

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Detailed Analysis

In this section, we provide a comprehensive examination of the key features, comparative aspects, technical specifications, and the variety of options across various Hayati vaping devices.

 

Hayati Pro Ultra 15000 Features

The Hayati Pro Ultra 15000 distinguishes itself with a high-capacity 550mAh rechargeable battery and a unique double E-liquid tank. Users can enjoy an impressive up to 15000 puffs from this device, which also boasts a visual display for monitoring and control.

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Battery: 550mAh (Rechargeable)

Capacity: Up to 15000 puffs

E-liquid Volume: Dual 12ml tanks

Display: Visual monitoring panel

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Hayati Pro Max 4000 Comparison

When comparing the Crystal Pro Max 4000 to its 15000-puff counterpart, one observes a reduced puff count yet it maintains-user friendly features. Marketed as a more accessible option, it serves well for those seeking a compact and efficient device.

 

Puff Capacity: Lower than Hayati Pro Ultra 15000

Market Position: Accessible for casual use

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Hayati Remix 2400 Specifications

The Hayati Remix 2400 is tailored for portability and convenience, with a spec sheet focused on delivering a satisfactory vaping experience for individuals on the move. It maintains a balance between functionality and size.

 

Portability: Compact design

Usage: Ideal for on-the-go users

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Hayati Pro Max 10ml Options

Offering various e-liquid options, the Hayati Pro Max 10ml caters to a broad palette with its diverse flavor profiles. Users have the flexibility to choose from a multitude of tastes, which enhances the overall vaping experience.

 

E-liquid Variety: Wide range of flavors

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Customization: Multiple flavor profiles available



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Several uprooted trees cause damage to properties in parts of Accra after downpour

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Rains on Monday, May 6, 2024, which lasted several hours, brought more worry than relief to the city of Accra, with several uprooted trees blocking roads, and destroying people’s cars.

The heavy rains this morning resulted in flooding of roads and houses with the uprooting of trees in areas such as Airport, and Cantonments.

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It’s being reported that an individual is in a critical condition after the uprooting due to the the heavy downpour which lead to blocking of roads at Cantonments.

In area such as Airport its being reported that cars parked nearby the landing restaurant have been demolished by the uprooted trees.

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Nigerian Superstar Fireboy DML Makes History as the First Cover Star of Apple Music’s Afrobeats Hits Playlist in Celebration of Africa Month

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Apple Music kicks off Africa Month celebrations with the introduction of cover stars on its Afrobeats Hits playlist, starting with Nigerian singer-songwriter, Fireboy DML who just released his new single “Everyday.”  Apple Music has also released the Top Artists and Afrobeats Hits for the past year with the likes of Davido, Asake, Bnxn, Omah Lay  and Rema coming out tops.

Apple Music is celebrating Africa Month with a special focus on Afrobeats, highlighting one of the most eclectic and influential sounds in music today

“As the first artist to be featured on this Apple Music playlist, I feel incredibly honoured and grateful,” Fireboy DML tells Apple Music. “Since 2019 I’ve had incredible support from Apple Music and I’m sure the whole African music scene can say the same. I’m excited to see where this leads and what it will do for the culture.”

Speaking about his new single “Everyday,” Fireboy DML adds: “This new era of my career is about reconnecting with one’s roots, old self and focusing on the things that truly matter — love, family, personal health. I think that’s where success truly lies. ‘Everyday’ is a song that reminds you of the days when we used to make celebratory love songs, of simpler times. From the moment the instrumental starts playing, you can already tell what you’re in for. I’m excited to share this record with the world!”

Apple Music is also featuring “The Story of Afrobeats in 20 songs,” a written editorial feature highlighting the music and artists that helped the genre grow from a West African staple into a global phenomenon.

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Towards the end of the month of May, Apple Music will also be launching a new Viral Afrobeats playlist, as well as an new Afrobeats category page that will house new releases, playlists and essential albums from the genre.

Apple Music has also released the Top Artists and Top Countries by streams of Afrobeats Hits for the past year.

Top Artists by streams on Afrobeats Hits

  1. Davido 
  2. Asake 
  3. Bnxn 
  4. Omah Lay 
  5. Rema 
  6. Burna Boy 
  7. Ayra Starr 
  8. Adekunle Gold 
  9. Kizz Daniel 
  10. Zinoleesky 

Top Countries by streams of Afrobeats Hits

  1. United States 
  2. United Kingdom 
  3. France 
  4. Canada 
  5. Nigeria 
  6. South Africa 
  7. Germany  
  8. Ghana 
  9. Australia 
  10. Switzerland

Discover Afrobeats Hits here: https://apple.co/AfrobeatsHits

Discover Afrobeats in 20 songs:  https://apple.co/Afrobeatsin20Songs

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BLISS GVS PHARMA WITH THEIR ACT FOR AFRICA CAMPAIGN DONATES TO RIDGE HOSPITAL, ACCRA

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Bliss GVS Pharma Ghana, a leading pharmaceutical company committed to global health initiatives, has extended a helping hand to Ridge Hospital in Accra, Ghana, as part of their ongoing ACT for Africa Campaign aimed at combating malaria.

The Ridge Hospital, located in the heart of Greater Accra, serves as a vital healthcare institution in the region, facing the persistent challenge of malaria, a prevalent mosquito-borne disease in many parts of Africa.

In a commendable demonstration of corporate social responsibility that has been ongoing for the past four years, Bliss GVS Pharma Ghana has donated a substantial quantity of antimalarial medicines, including Lonart, Gsunate, Gacet, and others, to Ridge Hospital. This donation further bolsters the hospital’s efforts to provide effective treatment and care to patients battling malaria. 

Medical Representative Bliss GVS Pharma Ghana, Kingsley Boateng asserted that “The ACT for Africa Campaign, spearheaded by our Managing Director, Mr. Gagan Sharma , is a proactive initiative designed to expand access to life-saving antimalarial treatments across the continent”. He added that “By partnering with healthcare facilities like Ridge Hospital, the campaign aims to make a tangible impact in the fight against malaria, ultimately saving lives and improving health outcomes for communities in need”.

Dr Ralph Armah, Medical Director at Ridge Hospital, expressed his gratitude for the generous donation, emphasizing its significance in addressing the malaria burden in the region. “This donation will help improve our pharmacy stock and also help us in our fight to eradicate malaria amongst various age groups especially the under-five,” he remarked.

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Bliss GVS Pharma Ghana’s commitment to supporting healthcare initiatives in Africa reflects its dedication to making a positive difference in the lives of individuals and communities. Through partnerships with local healthcare providers and ongoing investment in innovative healthcare solutions, the company strives to contribute to the advancement of public health across the continent.

The donated antimalarial medicines will be integrated into Ridge Hospital’s malaria treatment protocols, ensuring that patients receive timely and effective care. This donation not only addresses an immediate need but also reinforces the importance of collaboration between the private sector and healthcare institutions in tackling pressing health challenges.

As the fight against malaria continues, initiatives like the ACT for Africa Campaign serve as beacons of hope, uniting stakeholders in a shared mission to eliminate this preventable and treatable disease. The partnership between Bliss GVS Pharma and Ridge Hospital exemplifies the power of collective action in advancing towards a malaria-free future for all.

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Fido Takes Over Kaneshie Market With Launch Of FidoBiz

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Fido, a pioneering name in financial solutions, is thrilled to announce the successful launch of FidoBiz, a transformative new service to empower local businesses and entrepreneurs.

The vibrant launch event at the bustling Kaneshie Market marked a significant milestone in Fido’s commitment to fostering economic growth and entrepreneurship.

The event featured various engaging activities designed to introduce market women, hawkers, and local business owners to the benefits of FidoBiz. The Fido team was on-site, providing invaluable education on how to register and leverage FidoBiz to enhance their business operations.

Highlights included a spin the wheel game, where participants won numerous prizes such as cash and FidoBiz-branded merchandise, including t-shirts, keyholders, caps, and the crowd favorite—branded aprons.

Adding to the excitement, Delay, Fido’s esteemed brand ambassador, shared her entrepreneurial journey, offering insights and advice on how Fido loans can help both individuals and businesses when they need access to loan. She also shared with the audience best practices for running successful businesses.

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The event reached a crescendo with a stellar performance by Kwame Eugene, who thrilled the audience with his hit song “Monica” and signed a one-year ambassadorial contract with Fido live on stage.

Kofi, the Head of Marketing at Fido Ghana, expressed his enthusiasm about the launch: “This event is just the beginning of what FidoBiz plans to offer.

We look forward to supporting a flourishing community of businesses and entrepreneurs, helping them expand and improve with our tailored financial solutions.”

FidoBiz is set to empower local businesses’ access to financial services, simplifying processes and providing the tools and support needed for substantial business growth.

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Trustees of Children’s Heart Foundation Ghana Celebrated for Outstanding Achievement at the 2024 Africa Healthcare Awards

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In a glamorous evening at the Accra Conference Centre, the dedicated trustees of The Children’s Heart Foundation Ghana were honoured with the prestigious 2024 International Africa Healthcare Award by the Zenith Global Health Network.  (more…)

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