Entertainment
Fusing creative arts and climate science: Okyeame Kwame and partners spearhead climate change literacy
Okyeame Kwame shares his work on climate advocacy and justice
The Climate and Development Knowledge Network (CDKN), in collaboration with the Okyeame Kwame (OK) Foundation, and Centre for Climate Change and Sustainability Studies (C3SS), University of Ghana, hosted a conversation on Art and Climate Activism as part of the Centre’s Climate Change and Sustainability Seminar Series.
The Seminar, which took place on November 25, 2023, at the C3SS premises, represents an important step in bridging the gap between science, knowledge and practice on climate change and sustainable development knowledge brokerage using creative arts.
More than seventy graduate and undergraduate students from diverse university departments—including the Institute for Environment and Sanitation Studies (IESS), Geography and Resource Development, and the School of Performing Arts—attended the event.
CDKN Ghana’s Country Engagement Lead, Dr. Prince Ansah, underscored that this undertaking is in line with the organization’s dedication to bridging the divide between policy and technical aspects of climate change, as well as innovative arts-based strategies for climate action.
The event’s keynote speaker was the renowned Ghanaian musician, songwriter, creative director, entrepreneur, and climate activist, Okyeame Kwame.
In his address, he placed significant emphasis on the necessity of integrating climate action into popular culture, specifically concerning climate justice and climate literacy.
Okyeame advocated for student researchers to transcend academic boundaries and employ innovative channels of communication, such as photography, social media, and virtual communication, to publicize their research outcomes.
In addition to discussing the human-caused causes of climate change, Okyeame Kwame highlighted the importance of taking simple steps to reduce emission footprints.
The musician provided practical examples, such as managing household water and energy usage, and advocated for a shift in the narrative from tree planting to tree growing, emphasizing the importance of responsibility and ownership in environmental stewardship.
In closing his address, Okyeame Kwame encouraged the participants to become volunteers for the OK Foundation.
The Director of C3SS, Professor Kwadwo Owusu, expressed his excitement about the seminar and encouraged students to become change agents. He stressed the importance of maintaining the scientific and technical foundations of climate science as tools for advocacy. He also mentioned that the Vice Chancellor of the University of Ghana lauded this cross-sectoral approach, recognizing its potential in enhancing experiential learning.
Dr. Yaw Agyeman Boafo, Senior Research Fellow and Programmes Coordinator at C3SS and moderator of the event, concluded by emphasising the significance of these seminars in fostering collaborative networks for sustainable climate action in Ghana and the sub-region.
He stated the C3SS’s effort to bring more activists and practitioners to present at the seminar.
Several students in attendance at the seminar recounted personal experiences and involvements in climate action within various institutions, including communities, schools, and churches. They ranged from livelihood empowerment, recycling, artificial intelligence, disaster risk management, and gender equity.
CDKN Ghana launched a climate advocacy prize in partnership with C3SS to recognise students who can develop inventive concepts that promote climate justice and literacy.
Entertainment
Oncemore Six to headline Symphonic Gospel Meets Orchestra 2024
Symphonic Music Ghana is set for the 4th edition of the Symphonic Gospel Meets Orchestra concert, scheduled for December 22 at The Palms Convention Centre in Accra.
This year’s event will feature renowned South African gospel artiste Oncemore Six as the main performer.
The singer is known for his powerful worship songs like “Here on our knees” and “Ohlonishwayo”.
‘Oncemore Six’ has inspired audiences across Africa with his heartfelt music.
Joining him on stage will be a lineup of talented gospel musicians, including Grace Charles, Shadrach Kwesi Mensah, Efe Grace, Charnté Eseyin, Lordina The Soprano, Kofi Owusu Peprah, Luigi Maclean, Enuonyam, and more. This diverse group of artistes promises to deliver a memorable evening of worship and praise.
The concert aims to blend contemporary gospel music with classical orchestral elements, creating a unique and uplifting experience for all attendees. As a live recording event, it offers the audience an opportunity to be part of a significant moment in Ghana’s gospel music scene.
The tickets are still available for purchase.
You can’t miss this opportunity to experience a night of powerful worship and musical excellence. Mark your calendars for tomorrow and join at The Palms Convention Center for an unforgettable evening.
By Linda Abrefi Wadie
Entertainment
2024 Eastern Music Awards: Daasebreba Kwame crowned Artiste of the Year
Rising music sensation Daasebreba Kwame has been crowned Artiste of the Year at the 2024 Eastern Music Awards held at the Koforidua Cultural Centre.
The Eastern Music Awards, currently in its fifth year, promotes and recognises remarkable artistes thriving in the region and throughout Ghana in a variety of categories.
The night featured thrilling performances by nominees and past winners, highlighting the Eastern Region’s rich musical tradition.
Daasebreba Kwame, who is signed to the Yaco International record label, has had a successful year, winning the prestigious Artiste of the Year award, as well as Highlife Song of the Year at this year’s Eastern Music Awards.
Daasebreba Kwame’s Artiste of the Year prize package included a performance at the 2025 African Music Week in Canada.
In his acceptance speech, Daasebreba Kwame expressed gratitude to his fans for their unwavering support and dedicated this award to all aspiring musicians in Ghana.
He emphasised the importance of staying true to one’s musical roots while embracing innovation in music, and this was received by massive applause from attendees at the auditorium.
This accolade is a significant milestone in the career of Daasebreba Kwame, who is known for his unique blend of traditional Ghanaian sounds with contemporary music styles, which has captivated audiences both locally and internationally.
Winning this award not only highlights Daasebreba Kwame’s individual talent but also underscores the growing recognition of Eastern Region artistes within Ghana’s broader music industry.
Daasebreba Kwame’s victory at the Eastern Music Awards marks a significant achievement not just for him but for all artistes striving for excellence in their craft.
As he continues to inspire others through his music and dedication to cultural heritage, it is clear that he will remain a prominent figure in Ghana’s evolving music landscape.
This year’s event saw an increase in nominations across various genres, reflecting a diverse range of musical expressions emerging from the region.
