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Demolition of Fantasy Dome unfair — Mark Okraku-Mantey

• Mark Okraku Mantey
• Mark Okraku Mantey

 Months after the Fantasy Dome was dismantled to make way for construction at the Ghana International Trade Fair site, the Deputy Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mr Mark Okraku-Mantey, has expressed con­cern over the manner the facility was destroyed.

In an interview on Daybreak Hitz with Andy Dosty, Mr Okraku-Mantey criticised the handling of the dome’s dismantling, suggesting that it could have been done without causing damage.

“I don’t think that leadership gave instructions that they should do what happened. The structure was a prefab but I hear the peo­ple destroyed it. That one, we cannot defend it. It is unfair to him (owner). Sometimes, you give instructions and people will go and do things that will make you look bad,” he stated.

When asked about any punitive measure against the workers responsible for the destruction, Mr Okraku-Mantey clarified that the Trade Fair does not fall under his ministry.

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He said he had previously con­tacted the owner, Leslie Quaynor, to discuss relocating the dome, and even suggested the National Museum as a potential site, though it was too small.

The demolition of the 20,000-seat­er Fantasy Dome occurred on March 16, 2024.

According to Dr Agnes Adu, CEO of the Ghana Trade Fair Company Limit­ed, the action was taken after multiple notic­es were given to Quaynor to vacate the premises for redevelopment, as per their tenancy agreement.

Dr Adu noted that all previous tenants had complied except for the Fantasy Dome.

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Quaynor, in an interview with JoyNews, confirmed that his lease had ended, and was in the process of relocating the dome.

He had requested an extension, which was denied, leading him to seek a writ and an injunction from an Accra High Court to halt the demolition.

Despite this, the demolition pro­ceeded, causing significant damage to the structure.

Quaynor described the incident as a major setback, not only for his busi­ness but also for the entertainment industry, which relies on venues like the Fantasy Dome.

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Charman K makes strong fashion statement at TGMA26 

Musician Sylvester Kwakye, widely known in showbiz circles as Chairman K, made a bold statement at the Telecel Ghana Music Awards (TGMAs 2025) with not only his commanding presence but his striking sense of fashion—heralding what appears to be a confident return to the music scene.

Clad in a sharp, dark blue tailored suit accentuated with elaborate gold embroidery along the shoulder and sleeve, Chairman K stood tall and proud against a vivid red backdrop.

The outfit, paired with a crisp white shirt, slim black tie, and a regal black traditional cap with gold designs, symbolized both cultural pride and personal reinvention. His look drew admiration, capturing the attention of many at the event for its blend of sophistication and identity.

Chairman K has been a notable figure in Ghana’s music industry since 1999. He shot to fame in 2003 with his nationwide hit “AIDS Aduro”, a song that resonated across communities for both its rhythm and message.

Over the years, he has collaborated with celebrated Ghanaian artistes such as Flowking Stone and Kwadwo Nkansah (LilWin).

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However, the journey hasn’t always been smooth. Balancing academics and music proved challenging, prompting him to pause his music career to pursue higher education.

Chairman K is an alumnus of Osei Kyeretwie Senior High School (OKESS) and holds both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Mathematics Education.

Now, he returns to the limelight with new music, including “Wogye Wo Din” and the controversial “M3bo Wo Dua”, which sparked public debate and a fiery clash with outspoken entertainment critic Sally Mann.

Following Sally’s critique of his song recently, the musician, without equivocation, threatened to assault the critic, as he deemed the remarks as an attack on his career.

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With plans to collaborate with artistes from Nigeria, Liberia, and South Africa, Chairman K’s resurgence signals not just a comeback, but a reinvention—and judging by both his style and energy, he’s back with a bang.

The 26th Telecel Ghana Music Awards was held at the Grand Arena on Saturday, May 10, 2025.

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TGMA26: Empress Gifty makes history, wins maiden Traditional Gospel Song Category

Ghanaian gospel musician Empress Gify on Saturday, May 10, made history by winning maiden Traditional Gospel Song of the Year at this year’s Telecel Ghana Music Awards.

The event held at the Grand Arena brought together stakeholders in the Ghana music industry.

On the night, musicians who excelled in the year under review were awarded for their resilience and contributions to Ghana music.

On the night, Empress Gifty’s Watch Me was adjudged Best Traditional Gospel Song. 

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By winning this, Empress Gifty became the first Gospel Artiste to emerge as winner of the Traditional Gospel Song of the Year. 

The earlier Gospel Song category made way for the introduction of Best Urban/Contemporary Gospel Song and Traditional Gospel Song categories.

The Gospel musician expressed his appreciation to her team and husband for their unflinching support for her ministry.

She also lauded musician Kuami Eugene for writing and producing such a masterpiece.

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Empress Gifty finally dedicated the award to the memory of her mother, Evangelist Agnes Annan, affectionately called Agaga.

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