Entertainment
Kofi Kinaata addresses UN on migration and his role as IOM Ghana Goodwill Ambassador
At the ongoing ‘International Dialogue on Migration’ held at the United Nations Headquarters in New York on May 21, 2024, renowned Ghanaian musician Kofi Kinaata delivered a compelling speech to high-level delegates from around the world.
In his address, Kinaata reflected on his journey as the Goodwill Ambassador of the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) Ghana, a role he has passionately embraced since 2017.
Kinaata shared what motivated him to accept the ambassadorial position, highlighting the significant influence of IOM’s work.
“IOM has helped a lot of returnees. They always end their stories by saying ‘IOM reintegrated me, IOM helped me to come back,’ so when I was contacted by IOM in 2017, I immediately accepted the offer,” he recounted.
His words underscored the deep impact of IOM’s initiatives on the lives of countless individuals who have been successfully reintegrated into their communities.
The musician also opened up about the personal challenges he faces when writing songs about migration. He revealed that his conversations with returnees played a crucial role in shaping his understanding and empathy, allowing him to compose meaningful and impactful music.
“Speaking to returnees helped me understand their experiences, which I then used to create songs that resonate with their stories,” he explained.
In a poignant moment, Kinaata shared a personal anecdote, revealing that he could have easily fallen victim to the dangers of stowaway if not for his career in music. This revelation highlighted the precarious choices faced by many young people in search of better opportunities and underscored the importance of IOM’s mission.
Kinaata’s speech was met with admiration and respect from the international delegation, many of whom recognised the power of music in raising awareness about migration issues. His dedication and efforts as a Goodwill Ambassador have significantly contributed to the ongoing dialogue on migration, making a profound impact both in Ghana and internationally.
As a proud representative of Ghana, Kofi Kinaata continues to use his platform to advocate for the rights and well-being of migrants. His work exemplifies the transformative power of music and storytelling in fostering understanding and driving positive change.
Known for songs like ‘No Place like home,’ ‘Thy Grace,’ and the latest on his Kofi oo Kofi EP, ‘Saman,’ the multiple award winning has demonstrated his commitment to addressing irregular migration.
Entertainment
Nineteen57 Events announces Black Stars Legacy Awards
Nineteen57 Events has announced the launch of an event aimed at celebrating Ghanaian, African, and diaspora achievements.
The event is a prestigious platform dedicated to honouring exceptional individuals and organizations contributing to the growth and success of the Ghanaian society, the African continent, and the African diaspora.
Since its inception as part of Rhythms on the Runway in 2019 during Ghana’s historic Year of Return celebration, the Black Star Legacy Awards has recognized remarkable achievements in creative arts, culture, and beyond.
It has always been a component of ‘Rhythms On Da Runway,’ however, the organisers have decided to stage it as an independent event this year.
This shift allows for an expanded focus, honouring excellence across various fields, including business, leadership, innovation, science, and humanitarian efforts.
This bold move aligns with the awards’ mission of celebrating the spirit of achievement and innovation that defines Ghana and connects it to the broader Pan-African and global community.
While specific event details, including categories and selection criteria, are still being finalised, the Black Star Legacy Awards promises to be an unforgettable experience that highlights the very best of Ghana, Africa, and the diaspora.
Esteemed icons from Ghana, Africa and the African Diay such as Obrafour, Ricci Osei, Hon. Lisa Hanna, Reggie Rockstone, Queen Asabea Cropper, Nene Agyemang, Agya Koo Nimo, Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings, Morgan Heritage, Stonebwoy, and Richard Mofe Damijo have been among the honorees, setting the stage for what has become a highly anticipated annual celebration of excellence.
Entertainment
Zhikay Junior launches ‘The mind shift campaign’
Ghanaian award winning gospel blogger Isaac Nartey, popularly known as Zhikay Ike Junior, and his team have launched a campaign at Sap’s School in Teshie-Nungua, located in the Ledzokuku-Krowor Municipal Assembly in the Greater Accra region.
Themed ‘The mind shift campaign’, it was aimed to touch the lives of students by educating them on the use of social media and how it can impact lives.
Isaac Nartey, told The Spectator that the purpose of the campaign was to orient students in Ghana about social media and its impact.
Sharing photos from the campaign on Facebook, Zhikay also emphasised the importance of listening to children’s concerns, which include mental health, emotions, and societal acceptance.
“We must not consider children as just minors, they have genuine concerns that revolve around mental health, emotions, societal acceptance and others. We must create avenues for their voice to be heard,” He explained
The campaign included education, games, and entertainment. Some students received customized ‘Zhikay’ items as rewards for their hard work.
This initiative seems to be made a positive impact on the students.
‘The school tour will delve into the overview of social media and how it can be used to impact society positively,’ he added
Zhikay embarked on the tour with popular Ghanaian content creators such as “Freedom Official” and “Quecy Official.” Together, they created an educational and engaging atmosphere for the students.
By Linda Abrefi Wadie
