Ghana Entertainment News

The latest Ghana entertainment and showbiz news: music, movies, celebrities, and culture. Curated from Ghana's leading newsrooms and refreshed through the day, newest first.

REFFA 2026 nominees announced: 36 countries, 314 entries battle for honours
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Selassie Ibrahim announces 314 nominees for Regal Film Festival 2026

The Regal Film Festival and Awards (REFFA) has officially unveiled the nominees for its 2026 edition, marking a significant milestone for African cinema. At a ceremony held at the Accra Marriott Hotel, festival founder Ms. Selassie Ibrahim announced that the second edition of the event received 314 entries from 36 countries. The announcement, attended by industry luminaries including Joselyn Dumas and Eunice Banini, sets the stage for the main festival scheduled to take place from December 8 to 11, 2026, with a final awards gala on December 12. Ms. Ibrahim emphasized that REFFA's mission extends beyond the distribution of trophies, focusing instead on building a sustainable film industry and promoting African narratives globally. The 2026 festival program is designed to be comprehensive, featuring panel discussions, scriptwriting sessions, and marketing workshops. A key component of this year’s event is a dedicated content market intended to connect filmmakers with international investors and distributors, ensuring that African stories are told authentically and meet world-class standards. Several notable Ghanaian films are among the top contenders, including "No Man of God" and "Two." In the Best Picture category, Ghana's "No Man of God" faces competition from Kenya's "Nawi – Dear Future Me." The nominations also highlighted emerging talent in the student and short film categories, with "Shadows of the Past" and "Fiashidi" nominated for Best Student Documentary, while "Almost Forever" and "Dictatrix" (a Ghana-US co-production) are vying for Best Short Film. International entries such as Italy's "The Border" and the United States' "Blind Pursuit" are also in contention for major honours. As the festival approaches, the focus remains on enhancing the global visibility of African content and fostering a robust ecosystem for local creators. By providing a platform for diverse storytelling and professional networking, REFFA aims to elevate the continent's cinematic output and attract foreign investment. The upcoming December events are expected to serve as a vital hub for film discourse and industrial growth in the West African sub-region.

A composite image featuring a portrait of a man in traditional attire, a woman viewing a painting in a lush garden, and an indoor art exhibition where a woman presents a large painting to a seated audience. The scenes capture the essence of a cultural art event, highlighting the interaction between the artist, the artwork, and the public.
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Samuela Ogbemudia examines heritage and AI in What Our Fathers Knew

Ghanaian artist Samuela Ogbemudia, known professionally as Psalmuela, has introduced a new body of work titled "What Our Fathers Knew," which explores the critical intersection of heritage, spirituality, and modern technology. The project advocates for a proactive dialogue between ancestral wisdom and current innovations, particularly in the field of artificial intelligence. By examining these connections, Ogbemudia seeks to demonstrate how historical knowledge remains a vital resource for navigating the complexities of the contemporary digital world. The core of Ogbemudia's work suggests that the wisdom inherited from earlier generations is not merely a relic of the past but a foundational pillar for modern progress. Her art emphasizes that meaningful innovation occurs when society values historical insights and integrates them into new technological frameworks. This synthesis of the ancient and the modern highlights the relevance of traditional spirituality and cultural identity in an era increasingly dominated by automated systems and digital transformation. According to analysis provided by Professor Benjamin Kwablah Asinyo of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), "What Our Fathers Knew" serves as a conceptual bridge between different eras of human understanding. The art encourages a societal shift toward appreciating how ancient knowledge systems can inspire ethical and grounded ideas within modern technology. This approach ensures that as Ghana and the wider world embrace new advancements, they do so with a deep understanding of the roots that have shaped human civilization. Ultimately, Psalmuela’s exploration invites a broader conversation on the role of the arts in shaping societal values and development. By positioning ancestral wisdom alongside the technological "wisdom of today," the project challenges the perception that innovation must come at the cost of tradition. Instead, it promotes a vision of the future where the preservation of heritage and the pursuit of technological excellence work in harmony to create a more balanced and culturally rich society.

A speaker in a blue t-shirt addresses a seated audience during a session at the Pa Gya! Festival in Ghana. The attendees are listening attentively in an outdoor setting featuring European Union Ghana promotional materials and a green information board.
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Pa Gya Literary Festival marks 10th edition with 80 global participants

The 10th edition of the Pa Gya Literary Festival is set to take place from October 16 to 18, 2026, bringing together more than 80 participants from across the globe. This anniversary event serves as a critical platform to address the visibility gap faced by Ghanaian authors and provides a venue for creatives to connect with key stakeholders within the literary ecosystem. The festival will feature a diverse lineup of activities, including workshops, performances, and panel discussions designed to celebrate and promote literature. Festival Director Martin Egblewogbe emphasized the importance of the event in highlighting the challenges local writers face in gaining recognition. According to Egblewogbe, Ghanaian authors often struggle to achieve the same level of visibility as their foreign counterparts. He noted that the festival provides a necessary space for writers to network and engage with the broader creative industry, fostering an environment where local talent can thrive and gain the exposure they deserve. The European Union (EU) has also pledged its support for the festival and the wider creative sector in Ghana. EU representative Margo Pitura highlighted that such initiatives are vital for job creation and fostering meaningful dialogue through the arts. She reiterated the EU's commitment to supporting Ghanaian creatives, noting that the literary sector plays a significant role in economic development and cultural exchange. Beyond its networking opportunities, the Pa Gya Literary Festival focuses on the preservation of cultural identity through the written word. Organizers believe that by empowering local authors, the festival helps safeguard Ghana’s unique narratives for future generations. As the 10th-anniversary celebration approaches, the event stands as a milestone for the country’s literary scene, aiming to inspire a new wave of storytelling and creative excellence.

Nana Adjoa Lovia appointed red carpet host for GMA-UK 10th anniversary
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Nana Adjoa Lovia appointed red carpet host for GMA-UK 10th anniversary

Ghanaian actress and media personality Nana Adjoa Lovia has been officially named as the Special Red Carpet Host for the 10th-anniversary edition of the Taabea Ghana Music Awards UK (GMA-UK). The milestone event is scheduled for October 31, 2026, and will be hosted at The Royal Regency in London. This appointment marks a significant step in Lovia's career, placing her at the forefront of one of the most prominent international celebrations of Ghanaian musical talent. In her capacity as the Special Red Carpet Host, Lovia will be responsible for conducting interviews with performing artists, industry professionals, and various dignitaries attending the ceremony. The 10th anniversary of the GMA-UK is expected to be a high-profile gathering, drawing together key stakeholders from the Ghanaian music scene and the diaspora. Her role is central to capturing the excitement of the evening as guests arrive for the awards. Nana Adjoa Lovia, also known as Lovia Ansah, brings considerable experience to this international assignment. Her diverse career spans both acting and media, and she has already established a strong presence on the hosting circuit. She has previously handled hosting duties for other notable events, including the Ghana Music Awards Europe and the Ghana DJ Awards. This latest role at the GMA-UK is seen as a further enhancement of her professional profile and a testament to her growing influence within the entertainment industry. The Taabea Ghana Music Awards UK serves as a platform to recognize and honor the contributions of Ghanaian musicians on an international stage. As the awards reach their first decade, the 2026 edition aims to celebrate the global impact of Ghanaian music and culture. Lovia’s participation highlights the ongoing collaboration between Ghanaian media talent and international event organizers, ensuring that the 10th-anniversary celebration is presented with professional expertise.

A side-by-side collage of two women involved in a public dispute. The woman on the left, Efiya Otiwaa, wears a green headwrap, traditional face markings, and heavy jewelry, while the woman on the right, GMB's Ampomaa, is shown in a modern-traditional fusion outfit with a black headband.
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Efiya Otiwaa demands public apology from GMB's Ampomaa over song

US-based Afro-spiritual Ghanaian musician Efiya Otiwaa has demanded a formal public apology from Ampomaa, a contestant representing the Ashanti Region in the ongoing Ghana’s Most Beautiful (GMB) pageant. The dispute centers on the use of Otiwaa’s song, "Nananom," which Ampomaa allegedly performed on the TV3 stage without the artist's permission. The singer expressed significant disappointment after the contestant misidentified the contemporary track as a traditional folk song, failing to acknowledge its original creator during the televised broadcast. Efiya Otiwaa emphasized that the misrepresentation of her work is a serious concern regarding intellectual property rights. She argued that because the performance took place on a high-profile national platform, the correction and apology must be issued on that same stage to rectify the misinformation provided to the audience. The musician pointed out that performers and production teams have a responsibility to research the origins of the creative works they utilize, rather than assuming modern African compositions are public-domain folklore. This incident highlights broader challenges within the Ghanaian creative industry regarding the frequent misattribution of original works. Otiwaa urged all performers to seek explicit permission before using copyrighted material and to prioritize accurate attribution in their presentations. She maintains that a public apology from Ampomaa would demonstrate necessary respect for Ghanaian creatives and underscore the importance of protecting intellectual property in national competitions.

The image shows legendary Ghanaian highlife musician Daddy Lumba performing on stage, holding a microphone. He is seen with his iconic Bantu knots hairstyle, wearing a black hoodie against a vibrant purple background.
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3G Media Group to honour Daddy Lumba with Music Legend Award in New York

The 3G Media Group has announced that it will honour the legendary Ghanaian highlife musician, Daddy Lumba, with a Posthumous Lifetime Achievement and Music Legend Award. The ceremony is scheduled to take place during the 15th edition of the 3G Awards in New York City on October 23. This recognition is intended to celebrate the artist’s extraordinary contributions and his enduring influence on the landscape of Ghanaian music and culture, bringing together members of the diaspora to celebrate an icon of the industry. Daddy Lumba, born Charles Kwadwo Fosu, has remained one of the most prolific and influential figures in the highlife genre for decades. His artistry has not only shaped the sound of modern Ghanaian music but has also resonated deeply with fans across multiple generations. By spotlighting his career at this year's event, the 3G Awards organisers aim to pay tribute to a body of work that continues to define the cultural identity of many Ghanaians both at home and abroad. The 3G Awards, which were established in 2009, have become a significant fixture for the Ghanaian and African entertainment communities in the United States. The annual event serves as a platform to recognise the achievements of notable personalities who have made significant impacts in their respective fields, including music, media, and community service. By hosting the ceremony in New York City, the organisers seek to bridge the gap between the diaspora and their roots, fostering a sense of community through the celebration of African excellence. The upcoming 15th edition marks a milestone for the 3G Media Group as it continues its mission of documenting and honouring the legacy of African icons. The decision to present Daddy Lumba with the Music Legend Award underscores the timeless nature of his music and its continued relevance in the contemporary era. As fans and members of the diaspora gather for the event, the ceremony is expected to be a major highlight, reflecting the profound respect and admiration held for one of Ghana's most celebrated musical treasures.

Nollywood’s Harry B Hails Mahama as Africa’s Best President During Ghana Film Shoot
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Harry B. Anyanwu hails President John Mahama as Africa's best leader

Nollywood actor and musician Harry B. Anyanwu has described President John Dramani Mahama as the best leader currently serving on the African continent. While in Ghana for a major film production, the veteran entertainer expressed his profound admiration for the President’s governance and leadership style. Anyanwu, known for his distinguished career in the Nigerian film industry, urged other African leaders to observe and emulate the approach taken by the Ghanaian head of state to ensure progress across the region. The commendation was shared during the filming of the movie "A Journey to Africa", a project led by the prominent Ghanaian actor and comedian Kwadwo Nkansah, also known as Lil Win. The production features a star-studded cast of Nigerian actors, aiming to strengthen the cultural and creative bonds between the two nations. According to the production team, the presence of these high-profile actors in Ghana serves as a testament to the growing collaboration within the West African film sector, often referred to as the "Ghana-Naija" connection. Although the Nigerian delegation had planned to pay a formal courtesy call to President Mahama at the Jubilee House during their stay, the visit was delayed due to the intensive filming schedule. The meeting is now set to take place during the official premiere of the film in Accra. This future engagement is expected to highlight the role of the creative arts in national development and provide an opportunity for the actors to personally convey their appreciation for the President's support of the industry.

A photograph of Ghanaian dancehall musician Shatta Wale in a studio setting. He is wearing a vibrant, multi-colored patterned hooded jacket and dark sunglasses, seated in front of a professional microphone.
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Shatta Wale earns $45,000 from virtual gifts on TikTok livestreams

Ghanaian dancehall star Shatta Wale has revealed that he earned approximately $45,000 through virtual gifts during his TikTok livestreams. Speaking during an appearance on rapper YPee’s podcast, *The Real Ones*, the musician used his own financial success to highlight the potential of digital platforms for modern creators. He urged upcoming artists and entrepreneurs to embrace social media not just for visibility, but as a viable source of sustainable income. During the discussion, Shatta Wale admitted to an initial hesitation about shifting his primary live-streaming focus from Facebook Live to TikTok. However, he noted that the latter provided access to a significantly broader audience and introduced innovative monetization features that were previously unavailable. The $45,000 figure, accumulated from gifts sent by fans during his interactive sessions, serves as a testament to the platform's power to transform artist-fan engagement into direct revenue. Beyond the financial disclosure, the artist emphasized the necessity of consistency in the current entertainment landscape. He argued that regular audience engagement and persistent self-promotion are essential for building a long-term career in a highly competitive market. By sharing these insights, Shatta Wale encouraged a new generation of Ghanaian creatives to view social media as a professional tool for industrial growth and financial independence.

Regina Daniels celebrates 25th birthday in a wheelchair
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Regina Daniels celebrates 25th birthday in a wheelchair

Nollywood actress Regina Daniels has marked her 25th birthday under unexpected circumstances, revealing to her followers that she is currently using a wheelchair. The actress, who celebrated the milestone on October 10, 2026, shared the news through a video posted on her social media platforms. Despite the celebratory occasion, the visual of her in a wheelchair drew immediate attention and concern from her fans, prompting her to provide a candid explanation regarding her current physical condition. In the video shared on Instagram, Daniels opened up about the health challenges she has been facing behind the scenes for an extended period. She disclosed that she has been dealing with debilitating pain and significant mobility issues for several months. According to the actress, the severity of these ongoing health problems necessitated the use of a wheelchair during her birthday festivities, as her ability to move around freely has been severely restricted by the physical discomfort. The revelation has sparked a significant response from the entertainment industry and her vast social media following. While the specific medical diagnosis underlying her condition was not disclosed in detail, her transparency about the struggle highlights the physical toll the situation has taken on her daily life. As one of Nollywood’s most prominent figures, her decision to share this vulnerable moment provides a glimpse into the personal trials she is navigating. Supporters have since filled her social media pages with messages of encouragement and wishes for a speedy recovery as she enters her mid-twenties.

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Don Little recounts childhood story of being taken by dwarves

Kumawood actor Don Little has shared a startling account of his childhood, revealing that he was allegedly taken by dwarves during a family visit to his father’s hometown. The popular entertainer, widely known for his comedic presence in the Ghanaian film industry, recounted the bizarre experience during an interview on the Atuu Show. The revelation adds a supernatural dimension to the public's understanding of the actor's early life and the traditional environment in which he was raised. According to the actor, the incident took place while his family was gathered for traditional events. Don Little explained that he was told by those present at the time that dwarves had come for him, leading to a period where he was separated from his family under mysterious circumstances. While he did not provide exhaustive details on the duration of the encounter or the specific activities that occurred during his absence, he maintained that the event was a significant part of his childhood history as narrated to him by his relatives. The story shared on the Atuu Show highlights the intersection of celebrity life and traditional Ghanaian folklore, where stories of dwarves and spiritual interventions are common. Don Little’s narrative has since sparked discussions about cultural beliefs regarding physical stature and spiritual encounters in local communities. As a prominent figure in the Kumawood scene, his willingness to discuss such personal and culturally specific experiences continues to resonate with an audience familiar with the traditional motifs often explored in his films.

Danish Embassy hosts The Gulf of Guinea Speaks art exhibition in Accra
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Danish Embassy hosts The Gulf of Guinea Speaks art exhibition in Accra

The Royal Danish Embassy in Accra has hosted "The Gulf of Guinea Speaks," an art intervention designed to commemorate World Maritime Day 2026 and the 10th anniversary of the Danish Maritime Security Programme for the Gulf of Guinea. Held at the Ambassador’s residence, the exhibition served as a creative platform to explore the intersection of maritime security, environmental sustainability, and regional heritage. The event brought together diplomats, maritime practitioners, and art enthusiasts to reflect on the complexities of the maritime domain through a lens that blends policy with artistic expression. Curated by Fang Wang and Essé Dabla-Attikpo, the exhibition featured the works of prominent Ghanaian artists Patrick Tagoe-Turkson and Emmanuel Aggrey Tieku. Their installations and pieces focused heavily on the pressing issue of marine waste and the broader ecological health of the ocean. By repurposing materials and using visual storytelling, the artists highlighted the impacts of global trade and the phenomenon of "waste colonialism," where industrialised nations' refuse often ends up on African shores. Tagoe-Turkson and Tieku’s contributions were noted for making visible the often-overlooked narratives behind maritime policies and environmental degradation. The art intervention aimed to foster a deeper awareness of ocean ecology and maritime governance among key stakeholders. Organisers emphasized that the immersive experience was intended to move beyond traditional diplomatic discourse, using art as a powerful tool for advocacy. By highlighting the cultural and environmental value of the Gulf of Guinea, the exhibition sought to encourage more inclusive and imaginative approaches to protecting coastal heritage. The celebration of the Danish Maritime Security Programme’s decade-long involvement in the region underscores the ongoing collaboration between Ghana and Denmark in securing and preserving maritime resources.

Majid Michel's sister and Stephanie Benson share insights on Okay FM
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Majid Michel's sister and Stephanie Benson share insights on Okay FM

Ghanaian actor Majid Michel was the focus of a lively joint interview on Okay FM, where his elder sister, Juliette Mills-Lutterodt, and veteran singer Stephanie Benson shared personal stories and humorous anecdotes about the star. The discussion offered a rare glimpse into the actor's childhood and his unique impact on those around him, combining family history with lighthearted commentary from industry colleagues. Juliette Mills-Lutterodt reflected on their upbringing in a large household of eleven children, noting that Majid was the youngest of the siblings. She highlighted his remarkable journey to becoming a household name, observing that while he may have been the youngest in the family hierarchy, he rose to become the most prominent and recognized member of the group. Her reflections painted a picture of a sibling who defied expectations to achieve significant success in the Ghanaian film industry. Adding a humorous dimension to the interview, Stephanie Benson revealed that Majid Michel is the only man who has ever made her husband feel uncomfortable. She shared a specific anecdote involving her husband's reaction to her sitting on the actor's lap, illustrating the actor's charismatic and sometimes provocative presence. Benson’s story was told with her characteristic wit, emphasizing the playful tension that often surrounds the actor's interactions within the entertainment circle. The joint appearance on Okay FM served to humanize one of Ghana's most celebrated actors, blending the pride of a family member with the humorous observations of a peer. By sharing these diverse perspectives, Mills-Lutterodt and Benson provided fans with a more rounded view of Majid Michel, moving beyond his on-screen personas to reveal the personal dynamics that have shaped his life and career.