In a significant public health alert, the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has issued a strong warning regarding the improper use and abuse of naphthalene balls, particularly in the context of unapproved treatments for Covid-19. This cautionary message, emphasized in a recent communique by FDA Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Dr. Delese A. A. Darko, highlights the critical health risks associated with these practices. Misuse during the pandemic During the height of the Covid-19 pandemic, misinformation spread rapidly, including dangerous advice advocating the use of naphthalene balls to combat the virus. This off-label usage included dissolving naphthalene balls in drinking water or ingesting them directly, actions not only ineffective against Covid-19 but also extremely hazardous. Health risks and carcinogenic concerns Naphthalene is a chemical with well-documented toxicity. Ingesting or inhaling naphthalene can lead to serious health issues, including hemolytic anemia and, over time, increased risk of developing cancer. The FDA’s communique, backed by international research, underscores the carcinogenic risks associated with naphthalene exposure. Social media has exacerbated the situation by spreading anecdotal claims that overlook these dangers. International and local regulatory actions Globally, several countries have banned or restricted the sale of naphthalene-containing products due to the risks they pose. In many instances, these products have been mislabeled as “camphor,” misleading consumers and increasing the likelihood of misuse. Despite these bans, naphthalene balls remain available in many regions, including Ghana, where they are registered for use as insecticides. Strict labelling and usage regulations The FDA has implemented stringent labelling requirements to ensure consumer safety. Registered naphthalene products in Ghana must include comprehensive usage instructions, storage guidelines, and prominent warnings. Labels explicitly instruct users to keep naphthalene away from food, water, and children, and to store them safely away from fire due to their flammable nature. Continued vigilance and public education The FDA emphasizes that naphthalene can be used safely when all label instructions are followed meticulously. However, any deviation from these guidelines can lead to severe health consequences. Dr. Darko's communique calls for heightened public awareness and adherence to safe usage practices. The FDA is committed to ongoing collaboration with other agencies to monitor and regulate the use of naphthalene products. Ensuring public safety remains a top priority, and the Authority urges citizens to report any adverse effects or misuse of naphthalene balls. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

In an earnest effort to combat the pressing environmental challenges of our time, the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources has announced the forthcoming Green Ghana Day, set for June 7, 2024. The announcement was made during a meeting addressed by the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Samuel A. Jinapor on Tuesday. Green Ghana Day, now in its fourth year, is part of the government’s aggressive afforestation and reforestation programme aimed at restoring Ghana's degraded landscapes. This year’s theme, "Growing for a Greener Tomorrow," emphasizes sustainability, environmental conservation, and the well-being of future generations. “Climate change, air pollution, and loss of biodiversity are issues that affect us all,” stated Mr. Jinapor. “One of the most effective and immediate actions we can take to combat these challenges is planting trees. Trees are the lungs of our planet, vital to our survival and well-being.” The 2024 edition aims to plant 10 million tree seedlings across the country. Six million of these seedlings will be planted in degraded forest reserves, while the remaining four million will be distributed to farms, watershed areas, and various community locations such as road medians, homes, schools, churches, offices, and recreational parks. The initiative has garnered widespread support since its inception. In 2021, the first Green Ghana Day saw over seven million trees planted, surpassing the initial target of five million. The following year, the target was raised to 20 million trees, with over 24 million planted. Last year, over 10.7 million trees were planted, bringing the total number of trees planted to over 41 million. Survival rates have improved significantly, with an average survival rate of 81% in 2023. Mr. Jinapor highlighted the importance of maintaining the momentum while ensuring the care of previously planted trees. “To ensure maximum survival rate, we have decided to maintain the 2023 target of 10 million trees. This will give us space to devote some resources and attention to the trees planted over the last three years, while not losing momentum on our quest to restore our degraded landscape.” The Green Ghana Project received a ceremonial launch on April 16, 2024, by Yaa Naa Abubakari Mahama II, underlining the commitment to environmental conservation. A significant event preceding Green Ghana Day was the launch of the "One Student One Tree" initiative in Kyebi on June 3, 2024, encouraging every student to participate in tree planting. On Green Ghana Day, President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo will lead the nation in a commemorative tree planting exercise at Nicholson Stadium, Burma Camp, Accra. The project includes a diverse array of tree species suited to various climatic conditions across the regions, including timber trees, shade trees, ornamental trees, fruit trees, and multipurpose trees. The Minister called on all Ghanaians, including revered chiefs, queen mothers, religious and faith-based organizations, public servants, private sector organizations, civil society organizations, students, and the diplomatic corps, to support this initiative. “Trees are indispensable to the health of our planet and our well-being,” Jinapor emphasized. “The statement that ‘when the last tree dies, the last man dies,’ still holds true today as ever. Let us, therefore, join hands, and green Ghana on Friday, June 7, 2024.” Seedlings will be available for collection at the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, District Offices of the Forestry Commission, and designated public places on Green Ghana Day. Private institutions can adopt compartments of 128 hectares, branded with their names and logos, to further support the initiative. As Green Ghana Day approaches, the nation prepares to come together once more in a unified effort to ensure a sustainable and greener future. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Kumawood actor, Kwadwo Nkansah popularly known as Lilwin, has been granted bail in the amount of GHc50,000 with two sureties. This decision was handed down by the Accra Circuit Court on Monday, June 3, 2024, following Lilwin’s recent legal troubles. Background of the Case The case against Lilwin stems from allegations of fraud and breach of trust. According to the prosecution, Lilwin was accused of taking substantial sums of money from individuals with the promise of securing them acting roles in upcoming movie projects. However, these roles allegedly did not materialize, leading to the accusations against the actor. Court Proceedings During the court session, the defense argued that Lilwin is a respected figure in the Ghanaian entertainment industry and has no prior criminal record. They emphasized that he is not a flight risk and has been cooperative throughout the investigation process. His lawyer also pointed out that Lilwin has significant ties to the community, including family and business interests, making it unlikely that he would abscond. On the other hand, the prosecution maintained that the seriousness of the charges warranted a substantial bail amount. They argued that the alleged victims had suffered financially and emotionally due to Lilwin’s actions and that the bail should reflect the gravity ail Conditions In granting the GHc50,000 bail, the judge stipulated that Lilwin must provide two sureties. These sureties are required to be individuals of good standing who can guarantee that Lilwin will appear in court for all subsequent hearings. Additionally, Lilwin was ordered to surrender his passport to the court to prevent any attempt to leave the country. The judge also instructed Lilwin to report to the police station closest to his residence once a week until the case is resolved. This measure is intended to ensure that he remains within the jurisdiction and available for court appearances. Reactions from the Public The news of Lilwin’s bail has elicited mixed reactions from the public. Fans and supporters of the actor have expressed relief and happiness, maintaining their belief in his innocence and hoping for a swift resolution to the case. Conversely, some members of the public and alleged victims have voiced their dissatisfaction with the bail decision, feeling that it does not adequately address their grievances. . Looking Ahead As the case proceeds, the focus will be on whether the prosecution can substantiate their claims against Lilwin. The court is expected to reconvene in the coming weeks to begin the trial process, where evidence will be presented, and witnesses will testify. Lilwin’s legal team remains confident that he will be exonerated, asserting that the allegations are based on misunderstandings and miscommunications. They are prepared to vigorously defend their client and prove his innocence. Conclusion Lilwin's case highlights the ongoing issues within the entertainment industry regarding trust and accountability. As a prominent figure, his trial will be closely watched by both the public and industry professionals. The outcome of this case may have far-reaching implications for how business is conducted in the sector and could lead to more stringent regulations and oversight. In the meantime, Lilwin is expected to continue his work while complying with the conditions of his bail, as he prepares for the legal battles ahead. Story by: Sarah-Joyce Komenan

In a landmark move to combat climate change and promote environmental stewardship, His Royal Highness, Osagyefo Nana Amoatia Ofori Panin, launched the groundbreaking 'One-Student-One-Tree' initiative at the Abuakwa State College, Kyebi in the Eastern Region. This initiative, a cornerstone of the government's ambitious afforestation agenda, the Green Ghana Project, is championed by the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources. The launch event, held at Abuakwa State College in Kyebi, Eastern Region, was a testament to the collaborative spirit behind this environmental crusade. The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Samuel A. Jinapor, MP, joined the Okyenhene, Osagyefo Amoatia Ofori Panin, in celebrating the initiative. Together, they planted a tree, symbolizing their unwavering commitment to Ghana's green future. The 'One-Student-One-Tree' initiative aims to involve students from second-cycle institutions in tree planting, instilling a lifelong culture of environmental consciousness in Ghana's youth. The project seeks to create awareness about the critical importance of protecting our natural resources. In his stirring address, the Okyenhene highlighted the long-term benefits of such environmental initiatives" "I am proud to say that we have been instrumental in the success of Green Ghana Day since its inception in 2021" "Our ancestors dedicated their souls and spirits to protect the forests" "Now, it is our responsibility to do the same. They committed 100 days a year to forest conservation," he proclaimed. The Okyenhene urged the students to actively engage in the project, contributing to global efforts to create a sustainable and resilient climate. "Don't be reckless, irresponsible and greedy about what you can gain today and forgo what will make you survive tomorrow" Osagyefo NanaAmoatia Ofori Panin warned. "It is crucial to protect your future. Our elders taught us not to destroy assets because they retain their value. We have decimated our forests and water reserves, and we are now experiencing the impacts of climate change," he added. On his part, Lands and Natural Resources Minister, Samuel A. Jinapor praised the Okyenhene for his visionary leadership over the past 25 years, acknowledging his unwavering dedication to environmental causes. "Today, we honor a leader whose steadfast dedication, vision, service, and commitment have significantly shaped the Abuakwa Traditional Area, as well as the nation and humanity," Jinapor stated. The Minister provided historical context to the urgency of the Green Ghana Project, highlighting Ghana's precarious situation regarding forest reserve protection and the progress made with the planting of over 42 million trees since 2021. "As we join our students to mark the 2024 edition of this remarkable initiative, it is essential to highlight the role of trees in mitigating climate change, preserving biodiversity, and supporting human well-being. Trees act as the lungs of our planet, absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen" "They provide habitats for countless species, prevent soil erosion, and contribute to the water cycle. Planting trees is an investment in the natural infrastructure that sustains life on Earth," he emphasized. The One-Student-One-Tree initiative, as Jinapor noted, goes beyond planting; it fosters a sense of environmental stewardship in students. "It represents our collective duty to protect and ensure a sustainable future. By participating in this program, we aim to instill in our students the significance of caring for the environment, which underpins our economy, society, and existence" "Our students must develop a connection to nature, broaden their ecological understanding, and strengthen their responsibility to the world they will inherit," he said. The Eastern Regional Minister, Seth Acheampong, expressed his belief that the initiative would inspire students to honor the environment and build a healthier future. He pledged his full support to ensure the initiative's sustainability and hoped that the Green Ghana Project would fulfill its goal of fostering a greener tomorrow. The school's Headmaster, Eric Hanson Agyei Sarpong, closed the event by appreciating the government's dedication to the tree planting vision. He encouraged students to nurture the planted trees, ensuring they grow to their full potential. The 'One-Student-One-Tree' initiative is hailed as a significant step towards environmental transformation. Its impact is expected to resonate through generations, laying the groundwork for a future where environmental consciousness is deeply rooted in Ghanaian culture. As Green Ghana Day approaches on June 7, with the ambitious goal of planting 10 million seedlings nationwide, the theme "Growing for a Greener Tomorrow" takes on profound significance. President Akufo-Addo will lead a commemorative tree planting exercise at Nicholson Stadium in Burma Camp, Accra, uniting the nation in this vital endeavor. The 'One-Student-One-Tree' initiative stands as a bold testament to Ghana's commitment to a greener future, inspiring hope and action for generations to come. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

A violent clash broke out at the Kasoa Electoral Commission (EC) office yesterday, resulting in the stabbing of Ato Koomson, son of incumbent Member of Parliament Mavis Hawa Koomson. The incident occurred amid tensions over voter registration procedures. Eyewitnesses reported that the altercation began over a disagreement regarding the queuing process for voters seeking to transfer their registrations to the constituency. The heated dispute quickly escalated, leading to a violent confrontation. During the chaos, Ato Koomson sustained a stab wound to his chest. He was immediately rushed to the 37 Military Hospital in Accra, where he is receiving medical treatment. Several other individuals injured in the fracas were admitted to the Kasoa Polyclinic. In response to the violence, police swiftly intervened and arrested two suspects, including the constituency organizer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC). Authorities have assured the public that thorough investigations are underway to identify all responsible parties and restore peace in the area. Residents and political observers have expressed concern over the increasing tension in the lead-up to the upcoming elections. The incident at the Kasoa EC office highlights the urgent need for heightened security measures and conflict resolution strategies to prevent further violence. The Electoral Commission has yet to issue an official statement regarding the incident, but it is expected to reinforce protocols to ensure the safety and integrity of the voter registration process. As the investigation continues, the community hopes for a swift resolution to the conflict and a return to peaceful electoral activities. Story by: Sarah-Joyce Komenan

Kwadwo Nkansah, widely known by his stage name Lilwin, was arrested on Monday morning immediately after being discharged from the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital. The arrest is linked to a tragic road accident involving a vehicle driven by the popular actor, which resulted in the death of a three-year-old boy. Upon his discharge from the hospital, Lilwin was transported to the Manhyia Divisional Police Command of the Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD). While the police have not yet released detailed information about the incident, they confirmed that investigations are ongoing. The accident has sparked significant public outcry, particularly from the family of the deceased child, who are demanding justice. The family has intensified their calls for accountability, urging the authorities to ensure a thorough and fair investigation into the circumstances surrounding the fatal accident. Lilwin, known for his comedic roles and contributions to Ghanaian entertainment, is expected to be processed for court soon. The arrest has garnered widespread attention, with many awaiting further developments and official statements from the police. As the community mourns the loss of the young boy, there is a collective hope that the legal proceedings will provide clarity and justice for the grieving family. The case remains under close scrutiny, with updates anticipated as the investigation progresses. Story by: Sarah-Joyce Komenan

The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has raised grave concerns over the alarming increase in shisha use among senior high school students in the Ashanti Region. The FDA has also observed a worrying rise in the abuse of other drugs, posing a significant threat to the future of these young individuals. Shisha smoking, which involves inhaling flavored tobacco through a water pipe, contains nicotine and can lead to addiction. Public health organizations, including the World Health Organization, warn that shisha smoking can be as harmful as cigarette smoking. In response to this disturbing trend, the FDA, in collaboration with the KIDA Network, has intensified efforts to educate students about the dangers of drug abuse. Regulatory Officer Prince Osei Owusu emphasized the urgent need for stronger collaboration between the Ghana Education Service (GES) and the FDA to tackle this issue effectively. "Students are abusing drugs, especially with the introduction of shisha. This modern form of tobacco use is targeted at the youth, who often do not realize it is a form of tobacco," Mr. Owusu stated. "With the information we are providing, students are becoming enlightened and more aware of the risks. However, we need greater access to schools, which is why collaboration with GES is crucial." The educational initiatives seem to be making an impact, as students who have been informed about the risks of drug abuse have committed to avoiding all forms of drug use. However, the battle is far from over. Diya Williams, Group Coordinator for KIDA Network, stressed the necessity for more robust awareness campaigns. "We need to create more awareness because the message out there is not loud enough. We are educating not just the youth but the general public about the severe risks associated with drug abuse and addiction," Williams said. The FDA's alert highlights a critical public health issue that requires immediate and sustained action. The increasing trend of shisha use among high school students, coupled with the rising abuse of other drugs, underscores the urgent need for comprehensive educational and regulatory measures to protect the youth from the perils of addiction and its long-term consequences. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

A tragic accident at Ohene-Nkwanta near Konongo on the Kumasi-Accra highway led to chaotic scenes as scores of community members besieged the site to siphon diesel from a tanker truck involved in the collision. The incident, which occurred around 7 a.m. on Saturday, involved three vehicles: a tanker truck loaded with 36,000 liters of diesel, a Toyota Camry, and a VIP-branded bus. The head-on collision resulted in the immediate death of the Toyota Camry driver, while another occupant of the Camry, the driver of the tanker truck, and his assistant sustained injuries and were subsequently hospitalized. Despite the presence of police and military officers, the crowd forcefully opened the compartments of the tanker truck and began siphoning the diesel. The intervention by authorities failed to stop the looting of the fuel, highlighting the challenges faced in maintaining order at accident scenes. The deceased and the injured were promptly attended to by emergency responders. Officers from the Ghana Police Service and the Ghana National Fire Service faced a challenging task in clearing the accident scene and extricating the trapped bodies from the mangled wreck of the Toyota Camry. The wreckage of the Toyota Camry and the tanker truck were later towed to the Konongo Divisional Police Command. Asante Akim Central Municipal Fire Commander, D.O 3 Joseph Bryden, provided details of the incident to the media, stating, “There were three casualties, two injured and one reported dead. The Konongo fire team was swift and was able to minimize carnage.” The owner of the tanker truck, Mohammed Zakaria, expressed his distress over the incident, noting the significant loss incurred from the diesel siphoning. He described the act as unfortunate, unable to immediately quantify the financial impact. This tragic accident underscores the need for stronger measures to secure accident scenes and prevent such occurrences in the future. The community's response, while driven by the lure of free fuel, resulted in a significant loss for the tanker truck owner and added to the chaos of an already devastating event. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC) has announced an increase in electricity and water tariffs, set to take effect from July 1 to September 30, 2024. In a statement dated Friday, May 31, and signed by Executive Secretary Dr. Ishmael Ackah, the PURC detailed the new tariff structure. Lifeline consumers, those using between 0-30kWh, will see a 3.45% increase in their electricity rates. Residential consumers exceeding the lifeline threshold (31kWh and above) and all non-residential consumers will face a 5.84% hike. The industrial sector is not exempt, with an announced increase of 4.92% in electricity tariffs. Water tariffs will also rise by 5.16% across all customer classes for the reviewed period. “The Public Utilities Regulatory Commission wishes to inform consumers of electricity and water that there has been a review of the existing tariffs, to take effect from July 1, 2024, to September 30, 2024,” the statement read. Explaining the rationale behind the increments, the PURC cited several influencing factors, including the exchange rate between the US dollar and the Ghanaian cedi, domestic inflation, the electricity generation mix, and the cost of fuel, particularly natural gas. “These reviews have been undertaken in line with the Commission’s Quarterly Tariff Review Mechanism, which tracks and incorporates movements in key uncontrollable factors. These include the exchange rate between the US$ and the Ghana Cedi, the domestic inflation rate, the electricity generation mix, and the cost of fuel, mainly natural gas,” the Commission stated. The primary aim of these reviews is to preserve the real value of tariffs, ensuring that utility service providers remain financially viable and capable of delivering consistent services to consumers. The PURC also acknowledged the broader impact of these changes on the living conditions of Ghanaians and the competitiveness of local industries. “The Commission, in undertaking this review, also considered the competitiveness of industries and the general living conditions of Ghanaians,” the statement added. This announcement marks the latest adjustment in a series of periodic reviews by the PURC aimed at aligning tariffs with the economic realities of maintaining utility services in the country. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Zebilla District Hospital in the Upper East Region was thrown into turmoil following the shocking disappearance of a week-old baby from the maternity ward. The incident, which occurred under bizarre circumstances, has left staff and patients in distress. In an exclusive interview with Starr News' affiliate Zebs FM, Madam Zangina Grace, a midwife on duty, recounted the unsettling events. She revealed that the baby was born via Cesarean section on May 25, 2024. On Saturday evening, the baby's mother, Felicia Paul Dery, befriended a woman who posed as a relative of another patient. Trusting the imposter, the mother handed over her baby to the woman while she went to take a bath. Tragically, when the mother returned, both the woman and a male accomplice were nowhere to be found, having vanished with the newborn. "When she returned, the man and the lady were not to be found. They left with the baby. So it has been very sad," recounted Madam Grace. Dr. Ayobi Abdul-Rahaman, the hospital's medical superintendent, confirmed the abduction and stated that the police were promptly informed. He disclosed that there are leads which might aid in apprehending the kidnappers and expressed optimism about the potential for a swift resolution. However, Dr. Ayobi expressed concern over the blatant disregard for the hospital's visitation and security policies by some clients, which may have contributed to the incident. "This unfortunate event highlights the need for stricter adherence to security protocols," he stated. The hospital management is scheduled to convene a meeting to discuss measures to prevent such incidents in the future. The heartbroken mother, Felicia Paul Dery, who is barely able to speak, has made a heartfelt plea to the public for assistance in locating her missing baby. "Please, help me find my baby," she implored. The incident has raised serious questions about hospital security and the safety of newborns, prompting calls for immediate action to ensure such an incident does not recur. As investigations continue, the community remains on high alert, hoping for the safe return of the abducted infant. Credit: Starrfm

Zebilla District Hospital in the Upper East Region was thrown into turmoil following the shocking disappearance of a week-old baby from the maternity ward. The incident, which occurred under bizarre circumstances, has left staff and patients in distress. In an exclusive interview with Starr News' affiliate Zebs FM, Madam Zangina Grace, a midwife on duty, recounted the unsettling events. She revealed that the baby was born via Cesarean section on May 25, 2024. On Saturday evening, the baby's mother, Felicia Paul Dery, befriended a woman who posed as a relative of another patient. Trusting the imposter, the mother handed over her baby to the woman while she went to take a bath. Tragically, when the mother returned, both the woman and a male accomplice were nowhere to be found, having vanished with the newborn. "When she returned, the man and the lady were not to be found. They left with the baby. So it has been very sad," recounted Madam Grace. Dr. Ayobi Abdul-Rahaman, the hospital's medical superintendent, confirmed the abduction and stated that the police were promptly informed. He disclosed that there are leads which might aid in apprehending the kidnappers and expressed optimism about the potential for a swift resolution. However, Dr. Ayobi expressed concern over the blatant disregard for the hospital's visitation and security policies by some clients, which may have contributed to the incident. "This unfortunate event highlights the need for stricter adherence to security protocols," he stated. The hospital management is scheduled to convene a meeting to discuss measures to prevent such incidents in the future. The heartbroken mother, Felicia Paul Dery, who is barely able to speak, has made a heartfelt plea to the public for assistance in locating her missing baby. "Please, help me find my baby," she implored. The incident has raised serious questions about hospital security and the safety of newborns, prompting calls for immediate action to ensure such an incident does not recur. As investigations continue, the community remains on high alert, hoping for the safe return of the abducted infant. Credit: Starrfm

The 2024 Telecel Ghana Music Awards (TGMA) witnessed many Ghanaian musicians eagerly claiming awards amid tough competition from their peers. Stonebwoy emerged as the biggest winner, securing six awards, including Artiste of the Year, Songwriter of the Year, Best International Collaboration, and Best Reggae/Dancehall Artiste of the Year. King Promise, despite losing the Artiste of the Year award, won three awards: Afropop Song of the Year, Afrobeat/Afropop Artiste of the Year, and Most Popular Song of the Year. The event took place at the Grand Arena of the Accra International Conference Centre on Saturday, June 1. See the full list below; Best Hiplife Song 'Insha Allah' – Okyeame Kwame ft. King Paluta 'M'asesa' – Jay Bahd ft. Kweku DMC, SkyFace SDW 'Oh My Linda' – Reggie Osei, Jay Bahd, O'Kenneth, Kweku DMC 'Twatis' – Oseikrom Sikana ft. Kwaku Smoke 'Y'ahite Remix' – King Paluta ft. Kuami Eugene ------------- Winner 'Eny3 Nwanwa' – Guru Best Gospel Song 'Tears of Joy' – Patience Nyarko 'Anuonyam' – Mabel Okyere 'Aseda' – Nacee ------------------- Winner 'Kaafo' – Perez Muzik 'Mo' – Piesie Esther '100%' – Scott Evans 'Say Amen' – Diana Hamilton 'Victory' – Joyce Blessing Best Male Vocal Performance 'Don't Cry (Kaafo)' – Perez Muzik 'Gyidie' – Kyei Mensa 'You Are Great' – Kofi Karikari ft Eternity ------- Winner 'Hankipanki' – Josh Blakk 'Brown Skin Girl' – Camidoh 'I Lied' – KiDi Best Female Vocal Performance 'Baby' – Adina 'Far Away' – Abiana 'His Grace' – Lordina The Soprano 'Hold My Hands' – Queendalyn Yurglee -------- Winner 'Temple' – Niiella 'Make Me Believe' – TiTi Owusu Best Highlife Song 'Adoley' – Camidoh 'Party' – Adina ft. Kofi Kinaata 'Kweku Ananse' – Amerado ----------- Winner 'Manodzi' – Stonebwoy ft. Angelique Kidjo 'My Darling' – Akwaboah ft. Kwabena Kwabena 'Overthinking' – Kofi Kinaata 'Vero' – Kelvyn Boy 'Yolo' – Kuami Eugene 'You Dey Feel The Vibe' – FRA! ft. Nana Yaw Ofori Atta 'Africa Money' – Wendy Shay Best Hip Hop Song 'Lonely Road' – O'Kenneth, Xlimkid 'Otan' – Sarkodie ----------- Winner 'Scar' – Gyakie ft. JDee 'Sowutuom' – Medikal 'Dear God' – Strongman 'Yaya' – Black Sherif 'Akatanii' - Kweku Smoke 'The Hardest' – Amerado Best Afrobeats Song 'Hossana' – Banzy Banero 'Broken Heart' – DJ Vyrusky ft. Kuami Eugene 'Otello' – Fancy Gadam ft. Kuami Eugene 'Liquor' – KiDi 'Monica' – Kuami Eugene 'Case Remix' – Mr. Drew ft. Mophty 'Goodsin' – Olivetheboy ----------- Winner Best Afropop Song 'Super Super' – Efya 'Not God Remix' – Fameye ft. Stonebwoy 'Rent Free' – Gyakie 'I Lied' – KiDi 'Terminator' – King Promise ------ Winner 'Bad Boy' – Lasmid 'Till We Die' – Sarkodie ft. Ruger 'Into The Future' – Stonebwoy Unsung Artiste of the Year Kasar Lali X Lola Keeny Ice Kwesi Amewuga ------ Winner Seven Kizs Alaptawan Best Reggae/Dancehall Song 'Truth' – DSL 'Stubborn SoulJah' – Epixode 'Efiekuma Love' – Kofi Kinaata ----- Winner 'San Bra' – Samini 'Non-Stop' – Stonebwoy 'Eyeball Remix' – Ras Kuuku ft. Samini Collaboration of the Year 'Liquor' – KiDi ft. Stonebwoy ------------- Winner 'Lonely Road' – O'Kenneth and Xlimkid 'Case Remix' – Mr Drew ft. Mophty 'Twatis' – Oseikrom Sikani ft. Kweku Smoke 'Kwaku Ananse Remix' – Amerado ft. Fameye 'Y'ahitte Remix' – King Paluta ft Kuami Eugene 'You Dey Feel The Vibe' – FRA ft Nana Yaw Ofori Atta 'My Darling' – Akwaboah ft Kwabena Kwabena International Collaboration of the Year 'Scar' – Gyakie ft. JBee 'Butter My Bread' – Jyzno ft. Lasmid 'Terminator' – King Promise ft. Yung Jon 'Manodzi' – Stonebwoy ft. Angelique Kidjo -------- Winner 'Cryptocurrency' – Kuami Eugene ft. Rotimi 'Wotowoto Season' – Odumodublvck ft. Black Sherif 'Till We Die' – Sarkodie ft. Ruger 'Perfect Combi' – King Promise ft. Gabzy Best Highlife Artist Abiana Akwaboah Kofi Kinaata Kuami Eugene ------- Winner FRA! Best Rap Performance 'The Hardest' – Amerado 'Warning' – Eno Barony 'Boasiako' – FimFim '5th August (7)' – Lyrical Joe 'We Made It' – Medikal 'Otan' – Sarkodie 'Dear God' – Strongman ----------- Winner Record of the Year 'Reckless & Sweet' – Amaarae 'Far Away' – Abiana 'Manodzi' – Stonebwoy ft. Angelique Kidjo ------- Winner 'Iyawo' – Josh Blakk 'Me Dan Wo' – Joe Mettle ft. Kweku Teye 'My Helper' – Efya Best Music Video 'Manodzi' – Stonebwoy ft. Angelique Kidjo 'Wasted Eyes' – Amaarae 'Paradise' – Black Sherif 'Fate' – Kuami Eugene 'Broken Heart' – DJ Vyrusky ft. Kuami Eugene '100%' – Scott Evans 'Oil In My Head' – Black Sherif 'Kweku Playman' – Kweku Smoke 'Into the Future' – Stonebwoy 'Cryptocurrency' – Kuami Eugene ft. Rotimi -------- Winner Album/EP of the Year Taste of Africa – Abiana Fountain Baby – Amaarae Love & Chaos – Kuami Eugene Planning & Plotting – Medikal 5th Dimension – Stonebwoy ---------- Winner Most Popular Song of the Year 'Hossana' – Bandy Banero 'Yaya' – Black Sherif 'Scar' – Gyakie ft. JBee 'Victory' – Joyce Blessing 'Liquor' – KiDi ft. Stonebwoy 'Terminator' – King Promise ------------------- Winner 'Monica' – Kuami Eugene 'Case Remix' – Mr Drew ft. Mophty 'Aseda' – Nacee 'Goodsin' – Olivetheboy 'Otan' – Sarkodie 'Into the Future' – Stonebwoy 'Kwaku Ananse' - Amerado Best Hiplife/Hip Hop Artist Amerado Black Sherif ------------ Winner Medikal Jay Bhad King Paluta Sarkodie Best Reggae/Dancehall Artist Epixode Ras Kuuku Stonebwoy --------- Winner Samini Best New Artist Bandy Banero DSL King Paluta -------- Winner Maya Blu Olivetheboy Oseikrom Sikanii Best Afrobeat/Afropop Artist Gyakie Camidoh KiDi King Promise -------- Winner Mr. Drew Efya Wendy Shay Best Gospel Artist Diana Hamilton Joe Mettle Joyce Blessing Mabel Okyere Nacee --------------- Winner Perez Muzik Piesie Esther Scott Evans Best African Artist Rema Asake Burna Boy Tyla Davido -------- Winner Jzyno Audio Engineer of the Year Killing Skills - Reckless and Sweet by Amaarae Liquid Beats - Far Away by Abiana ft Fameye Miz Master Gary - Manodzi by Stonebwoy ft Angelique Kidjo ------ Winner Josh Blakk and Richard Nwankwo - Iyawo by Josh Blakk Loudaa - My Helper (Oluwa) by Efya Daniel Ayittah - Me Dan Wo by Joe Mettle ft Kweku Teye Producer of the Year Kuami Eugene Liquid Beats Killbeatz MOG Beatz -------- Winner Izjoe Beatz Beatz Vampire Best Video Director Yaw Skyface - Manodzi by Stonebwoy ft Angelique Kidjo Lauren Dunn - Wasted Eyes by Amaarae David Nicole-Sey - Paradise by Black Sherif Xbill Ebenezer - Fate by Kuami Eugene Rex - Broken Heart by DJ Vyrusky ft Kuami Eugene The Boldz - 100% by Scott Evans Babs Direction - Oil In My Head by Black Sherif Bani World - Kweku Playman by Kweku Smoke Jwillz - Into the Future by Stonebwoy Xbill Ebenezer - Cryptocurrency by Kuami Eugene ft Rotimi Songwriter of the Year Perez Muzik Fameye DSL Sarkodie Akwaboah Stonebwoy --------- Winner Artist of the Year Black Sherif King Promise Kuami Eugene Nacee Sarkodie Stonebwoy -------- Winner Lifetime Achievement Award - Amakye Dede Music For Good - Eugene Zuta Credit: Myjoyonline