News
Merck Foundation launches first TV programme to address social, health issues
Merck Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, has launched its first TV programme to address critical and sensitive issues in Africa and beyond.
Dubbed ‘Our Africa by Merck Foundation’, the show, according to the organisation “is set to be the voice of the voiceless and break the silence” about social and health challenges such as: diabetes, child marriage, girl education, women empowerment, gender-based violence, infertility, female genital mutilation (FGM) , among others.
The pan African show, conceptualised, produced, directed, and hosted by Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation, would feature fashion designers, singers, and prominent guests from various backgrounds to “raise awareness and create a culture shift across Africa.”
Expressing her excitement about the launch, Dr Kelej, noted that fashion and art should “have a purpose beyond entertainment and looking good.”
She believed fashion and art could contribute to sensitising communities about different social and health issues hence the introduction of the “beneficial yet entertaining TV programme.”
According to her, the programme was part of efforts to reach out to the youth as well as people in rural and urban communities on a wide range of pressing issues.
“I am hosting the show along with my co-host Brian Mulondo from Uganda. We will discuss and address various social and health issues relevant to Africa in a very unique way through our African community of fashion and art with purpose.
“It will be a first-of-its-kind interactive show, which will feature talented fashion designers and singers who sensitise communities through those creative work across Africa”, Dr. Rasha Kelej added.
She said a promo of the first episode on diabetes and healthy lifestyle had already received positive feedback.
The programme would be broadcast every Sunday at 2pm on GHOne TV in Ghana as well as other African countries including Kenya and Uganda.
By Spectator Reporter
News
Government, GoldFields,reach agreement on Damang Mine
The Government of Ghana and Goldfields Ghana Limited have reached an amicable agreement on a transitional plan for the Damang Mine.
The operational modalities of the transition involve issuing a new 12-month mining lease to Goldfields’ subsidiary, Abosso Goldfields Limited, pending parliamentary ratification in
May 2025.
Under the new arrangement, Goldfields will resume open-pit mining during the transition period, safeguarding jobs and conducting feasibility studies to establish Damang’s reserves and mine life.
At the same time, the processing of existing stockpiles will continue under the supervision of a joint management team composed of representatives from the Government of Ghana
and Goldfields. The two parties will work in good faith to secure a successful transition and eventual transfer of a viable mine to Ghanaian ownership.
Both parties have agreed to advance discussions in good faith on the renewal of the lease for the Tarkwa mine, due in 2027, and pledged to work together to enhance Ghana’s
potential in the mining sector as a favourable investment destination,
News
Ophelia Crossland appointed as new Creative Director of Nineteen57
In an exciting turn for Ghana’s fashion industry, celebrated designer Ophelia Crossland has officially assumed leadership of Nineteen57, the iconic menswear brand founded by her husband, Kofi Okyere-Darko (KOD).
This transition follows KOD’s recent appointment as Director of Diaspora Affairs at the Office of the President—a prestigious national role that reflects his continued service to Ghana on a global scale.
With this new chapter in public service, the reins of Nineteen57 have now passed to Ophelia Crossland, who will take on both the day-to-day operations and creative direction of the brand.
Ophelia Crossland, the CEO and founder of her eponymous womenswear label, brings over a decade of experience in luxury fashion.
Known for her keen eye for detail and mastery in haute couture, her leadership is expected to usher in a new era for Nineteen57—one that blends timeless African sophistication with modern sensibilities for the stylish gentleman.
“Nineteen57 has always stood for bold sophistication and African excellence,” said Ophelia Crossland. I’m excited to build on that legacy and explore new creative horizons with the team,” she said.
The transition marks a defining moment for the fashion power couple—Ophelia taking the creative lead in fashion innovation while KOD serves the nation in his new diplomatic role.
Together, they continue to elevate Ghana’s presence across fashion and governance.
