Located in the heart of the Upper East Regional Capital, Bolgatanga, Keloma Homes offers a unique and comfortable experience for travellers. If you are seeking both relaxation and cultural immersion, this is a perfect place. Whether you’re here for business, leisure, or a family getaway, Keloma Homes provides the perfect accommodation tailored to your needs. Enjoy modern amenities, local charm, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere that will make your stay in the Upper East Region of Ghana truly unforgettable.

Accommodations options at Keloma Homes: Tailored to Your Needs

At Keloma Homes, we recognise that different travellers have varying needs. That’s why we offer a variety of accommodation options, each designed to provide the perfect blend of comfort and convenience.

Master Bedroom Suite

The spacious master bedroom suite is the ultimate retreat for guests looking for a touch of luxury. With a comfortable king-sized bed, modern decor, and ample space, you’ll feel right at home. The room features elegant furnishings, air conditioning, and a large en-suite bathroom with all the essentials.

Twin Apartments

Ideal for families or groups, our twin apartments offer separate, well-appointed rooms with a shared living area. Whether you’re travelling with family or friends, these apartments provide the perfect combination of privacy and shared space. Each apartment features its own kitchen, making it easy to prepare your favourite meals.

Top-Floor Apartment

For guests seeking a bit more space and a view to match, the top-floor apartment is the ideal choice. With panoramic views of the surrounding city and countryside, this apartment offers a spacious layout with all the comforts of home. Enjoy natural light, high ceilings, and a private atmosphere for a truly unique stay.

Ground-Floor Apartment

The ground-floor apartment offers the convenience of easy access, making it perfect for those with mobility concerns or anyone seeking added convenience. Featuring a fully equipped kitchen, a cosy living space, and comfortable bedrooms, this apartment is ideal for both short and extended stays.

Amenities: Everything You Need for a Comfortable Stay

Our goal is to make your stay as convenient and enjoyable as possible. At Keloma Homes, you’ll find a variety of amenities designed to suit your lifestyle and preferences.

Fully Equipped Kitchens

Whether you’re planning to cook your meals or simply need a place to prepare a quick snack, our kitchens come fully equipped with all the essentials, including a stove, microwave, refrigerator, and more. Enjoy the flexibility of preparing meals at your own pace.

High-Speed Internet

In today’s connected world, having access to reliable internet is crucial. Keloma Homes offers high-speed internet from Starlink to ensure that you can stay in touch with loved ones, get some work done, or simply enjoy browsing the web during your stay.

Air Conditioning and Heating

Our accommodations are equipped with both air conditioning and heating systems to ensure you stay comfortable throughout the year. Whether you’re visiting during the hot season or when temperatures drop, we’ve got you covered.

Entertainment Options

We understand the importance of entertainment during your stay. All our apartments are equipped with smart TVs and access to streaming services, allowing you to relax with your favourite shows and movies. Additionally, there are numerous local games and activities to enjoy.

Location: Explore the Heart of Bolgatanga

Bolgatanga, often referred to as the “Gateway to the North,” offers a wealth of cultural and natural attractions. Staying at Keloma Homes gives you easy access to some of the region’s most exciting destinations.

Proximity to Local Attractions

• Bolgatanga Central Market: Explore the vibrant market, where you can shop for local crafts, clothing, and food.
• Tongo Hills: A scenic and cultural spot with traditional cave dwellings and breathtaking views.
• Paga Crocodile Pond: A unique wildlife experience where you can interact with sacred crocodiles.

Cultural Experiences

Immerse yourself in local culture by visiting the region’s crafts markets, where skilled artisans sell handwoven baskets, beads, and other traditional items. You can also enjoy local festivals and ceremonies, which provide a glimpse into the rich heritage of the Upper East Region.

Transportation and Accessibility

Keloma Homes is well-connected to public transportation options, with local taxis and bus stations nearby. Whether you’re travelling within Bolgatanga or heading out to explore the region, transportation is convenient and easily accessible.

Booking Information: Secure Your Stay at Keloma Homes

Booking your stay at Keloma Homes is a hassle-free and straightforward process.

Reservation Process

Visit our Airbnb listings to select your desired accommodation (Master Bedroom, Twin Apartments, Top-Floor, or Ground-Floor). The booking process is quick and secure, with payment options available directly on the platform.

Contact Information

For any inquiries or special requests, feel free to reach out to us through the Airbnb messaging platform or contact us directly at kelomaguesthouse25@gmail.com or +233 54 531 3444.

Special Offers

We frequently offer discounts for early bookings or extended stays. Be sure to check for promotions or contact us to learn more.

Conclusion: Experience Bolgatanga Like Never Before

At Keloma Homes, we offer more than just a place to stay – we provide a gateway to discovering the beauty and culture of Bolgatanga. Whether you’re here for a short stay or an extended visit, we ensure that every guest has an unforgettable experience. Book your stay today and experience the charm of Keloma Homes.

Accra, Ghana — Ataman Nikita is elated to reveal his latest collaboration with Dr. Puskin (Paul Azunre)—a trailblazer at the crossroads of art and science. This partnership blends creative energy with intellectual rigour to deliver a sound that truly transcends.

Musical Achievements & Awards

Dr. Puskin has made a profound impact on the independent music scene:

• In 2022, four of his singles broke into the Official Ghanaian Top 20 YouTube charts, signalling widespread acclaim (Isolirium).
• His album Outlandish (2023) garnered rave reviews. It earned him a spot as one of the “Essential SXSW 2023 Acts” by the Austin Chronicle (Isolirium).

Most notably, Dr. Puskin’s “Empty Grave” music video (feat. B-Wayne) dominated the charts, featuring in the Ghanaian YouTube Top 10 into early 2025 and receiving heavy rotation on FM and TV in Ghana, Sweden, and Brazil (Isolirium).

His award-winning streak includes:

• Best Hip Hop Music Video – “Just Watch” at the Europe Music Awards 2025 (Season 19)
• Best African Hip Hop (Finalist) – “Winning (Remix)” at the Intercontinental Music Awards 2025
• Best Rap/Hip Hop Song – “Just Watch” at the Zepstone International Film & Music Festival 2025 (Round 4)
• Best World Song – “Empty Grave” at the Zepstone International Film & Music Festival 2025 (Round 3)
• Best Music Video Gold Medal – “Empty Grave” at the Zepstone International Film & Music Festival 2025 (Round 3)
• Best Rap/Hip Hop Song – “Winning (Remix)” at the Zepstone International Film & Music Festival 2025 (Round 3)
• Best Music Video Bronze Medal – “No Heroes” at the Zepstone International Film & Music Festival 2025 (Round 3)
• Best Rap – “No Heroes” at the Europe Music Awards 2025 (Season 18)
• Best African Music Video – “Empty Grave” at the Los Angeles Movie & Music Video Awards (LAMMVA) 2025
• Bronze Medal (Listener Impact: Content/Message Delivery) – “No Heroes” at the Global Music Awards 2025 (Isolirium).

Science & Innovation Profile

On the tech side, Paul Azunre is an esteemed AI researcher, author, and entrepreneur:

• Author of the influential textbook Transfer Learning for Natural Language Processing
• Founder of Algorine Inc. and co-founder of Ghana NLP, leading breakthroughs in AI and natural language understanding — particularly for African languages (Wikipedia, Isolirium).

Ataman Nikita’s Statement

“Collaborating with Dr. Puskin is beyond musical synergy—it’s witnessing how artistry and intellect can fuse to inspire a new generation. He’s proof that curiosity knows no bounds.”

This collaboration elevates the forthcoming No Heroes / No Miracles duology, promising a release that resonates deeply across creative and intellectual spectra.

The new project will be available on all digital platforms on September 5th, 2025.

For press inquiries, interviews, or media requests, contact: isolirium@gmail.com

Ataman Nikita started 2025 with one objective: sharing his voice and music with the world. Thus far, he’s proven to be worth the hype. With an impressive vocal performance, he’s sung over varied genres and still remains awe-inspiring. As we get ready for his first full-length album, he’s chosen to serenade by adopting an Amapiano approach to a single released with Dr Pushkin and Kojo Cue earlier this year.

Dubbed “No Go G – Amapiano”, he uses his voice to basically birth the dance out of Amapiano lovers.

This release comes ahead of two scheduled singles and the Album set for release by Isolirium Entertainment before the year ends. Ataman Nikita is the voice many have been waiting for. He’s set to thrill the world through his mastery of his voice.

Check out “No Go G – Amapiano” on all digital platforms for music. Meanwhile, you can watch his latest visualizer, which features B-Wayne, one of Ghana’s rising music stars.

Get ready for one of the most anticipated events of the year, Zepstone Arts Festival, also known as ZepFEST 2025. This incredible festival is returning on September 13, 2025, and it promises to be a night full of music, energy, and unforgettable performances. Hosted at Leatherheads Sports Bar & Grill in Draper, Utah, ZepFEST is the ultimate celebration of art.

What is ZepFEST?

Zepstone International Film & Music Festival (ZepFEST) is a dynamic Art Festival that brings together Filmmakers, Podcasters and musicians from a variety of genres. This is to give fans a chance to experience both emerging and established talent. Known for its incredible energy, ZepFEST features a wide range of performances, from up-and-coming stars to world-renowned artists. This year, the festival will be headlined by some of the best in Rap/Hip-Hop, offering an unforgettable night of live music. The festival celebrates diversity in music and culture, making it a must-attend event for music lovers of all kinds.

Dr. Pushkin: The Star of the Show

Among the highlights of ZepFEST 2025 is the highly anticipated performance from Dr. Pushkin, an artist known for his captivating blend of African rhythms and modern rap. Hailing from Bolgatanga, Ghana, and now based in Austin, Texas, Dr. Pushkin has been making waves in the music scene with his unique sound that crosses cultural boundaries. His thought-provoking lyrics, infectious beats, and high-energy stage presence have made him a fan favourite, and his performance at ZepFEST is sure to be a night to remember.

Expect Dr. Pushkin to deliver a performance that blends deep storytelling with vibrant, Afro-infused rap beats that will have the crowd energised all night long. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to his music, Dr. Pushkin’s performance will undoubtedly leave you wanting more.

ZepFEST 2025 also features Dr. Aza and Wyldthang, two other talented artists who will keep the momentum going throughout the night. These performers bring their own unique energy to the stage, ensuring a diverse and high-octane experience. Dr. Aza’s smooth rap delivery and Wyldthang’s electrifying beats will complement Dr. Pushkin’s performance, creating an unforgettable night of music.

Located in Draper, Utah, Leatherheads Sports Bar & Grill is the ideal venue for ZepFEST 2025. With its intimate yet vibrant atmosphere, it offers fans a chance to experience live music up close, ensuring that every beat, every lyric, and every performance will be felt. The venue also features a full bar and grill menu, so attendees can enjoy delicious food and drinks while immersing themselves in the music. With a 21+ age restriction, the Event ensures an adult crowd ready to enjoy the night to the fullest.

Event Details:

• Date: September 13, 2025
• Time: 9:00 PM MDT
• Venue: Leatherheads Sports Bar & Grill, Draper, UT
• Genre: Rap/Hip-Hop
• 21+ Event
• Tickets: Available online or at the door

ZepFEST 2025 promises to be an unforgettable night filled with incredible performances and an unbeatable atmosphere. Dr. Pushkin’s performance is one that music fans won’t want to miss. Whether you’re a fan of rap, hip-hop, or simply enjoy great live music, this Event has something for everyone.

Grab your tickets today and join us at ZepFEST for a night you won’t forget!

This story was supported by the Pulitzer Center

By Claire Thomas and Nicholas Azebire

Ghana’s “Witch Camps”: A Nation at a Crossroads

In the northern regions of Ghana, hundreds of women—most of them elderly, widowed, and impoverished—live in exile in so-called “witch camps.” Accused of witchcraft by their own families or communities, they are cast out and confined to lives of isolation, poverty, and fear. These are not criminals. They are victims of deeply rooted superstition, misogyny, and social abandonment.

Underlying these accusations is a broader cultural context. Ghana is a country where Christianity and Islam dominate, yet traditional spiritual beliefs—including fear of witches—remain potent. Illness, crop failure, or even a child’s academic success can be blamed on malevolent spiritual interference. Elderly women without male protectors or resources are easy targets.

To be accused of witchcraft in Ghana is to face exile, persecution, and even death. For those deemed “guilty,” banishment to one of northern Ghana’s six so-called witch camps is often the only means of survival.

These accusations can have deadly consequences. In July 2020, 90-year-old Akua Denteh was tragically lynched in a public market square after being accused of witchcraft. The incident, which was filmed and widely shared on social media, prompted national outrage and renewed demands for legal and cultural reform.

During a visit to the Gambaga camp for women accused of witchcraft in 2009, I asked an elderly woman if she believed she was a witch. Before she could answer, my translator—a relative of the local chief—interrupted: “Of course she is. Why else would she be here?” The question was never translated. Her voice, like so many others, was silenced.

The so-called witch camps—located throughout northern Ghana—lack formal barriers or security, yet the women living there face severe restrictions on their freedom. Often confined to basic, windowless mud huts with little access to resources, their displacement stems from accusations that, once made, can permanently alter the course of their lives. Traditional rituals involving animal sacrifice are sometimes used to determine guilt or innocence, but even these do not guarantee protection or reintegration.

As Dr. John Azumah, Executive Director of The Sanneh Institute, explains: “The judgment is delivered not by spirits, but by neighbors. A mere accusation can ruin a life.”

“There are no physical barriers keeping the women inside,” he adds. “But cultural and psychological ones are deeply entrenched. The women are made to believe that if they leave the camp, the spirits will kill them.”

The reality on the ground is best understood through the voices of women like those I met during a visit to the Gambaga camp in May 2025, including Matis Awola, a widow in her fifties, who was accused after a man claimed to have seen her in a dream. “The next day I was called a witch. I ran to the bush and wanted to kill myself,” she recalled. Her son brought her to Gambaga, where she now works for food on a nearby farm.

The emotional and economic toll of life in the camps is evident in many testimonies. Fusheina, a widow and mother of five, has lived in the Gnani camp for the past six years. She was accused of witchcraft by the chief of her village after the sudden death of her nephew. Expelled immediately, she now lives alone. “I’m not happy because my children are not with me,” she says sorrowfully. “I just want to go home.” But returning is not an option—she fears the villagers would harm her.

Life in the camp is extremely difficult, Fusheina adds. “There is no work. We don’t have a farm here, so we have no way of earning money.” She hasn’t seen her children in over two years.

These individual stories reflect a broader, systemic reality. The consequences are devastating. Many women have lived in the camps for decades, stripped of their dignity, their families, and their freedom—all without due process. Some arrive voluntarily, fleeing mobs with machetes or torches. Others are brought by force. All are marked for life.

Professor Azumah describes the camps as sites of systemic abuse and exploitation: “These women are used as free labor. Even aid from NGOs is often diverted by community leaders.”

The hardships extend across generations. Children are not spared. Some live in the camps with their grandmothers, facing bullying and stigma for being related to accused witches. Labeled “witches’ children,” they are often pushed out of school and forced into street labor. In some camps, disturbing reports have emerged of sexual abuse, including allegations involving religious leaders. In one particularly troubling case, a priest is alleged to have fathered children with multiple women in a camp.

These children often struggle to access education, healthcare, and safety. Many are forced to work in local markets or on nearby farms to survive. The cycle of marginalization is inherited, and the trauma is passed down.

For women who hope to return to their communities, the path to reintegration is fraught. They must often undergo “cleansing rituals,” which can cost over 1,000 Ghanaian cedis (around $100 USD), including the slaughter of livestock. For most, this is financially impossible.

Still, efforts by NGOs, churches, and activists continue. Groups like The Sanneh Institute, Action Aid Ghana, and Songtaba offer food, shelter, counseling, and advocacy. In July 2025, these organizations came together to mark the fifth anniversary of Akua Denteh’s death with a memorial march and exhibition. Photographs of women from the camps were displayed as a visual call to action.

Amidst ongoing advocacy, change may finally be within reach. In 2023, Ghana’s Parliament passed an amendment to the Criminal Offenses Act criminalizing witchcraft accusations. And in March 2025, the long-delayed Anti-Witchcraft Bill was reintroduced, aiming to outlaw such accusations entirely, shut down the camps, and establish a legal pathway for reintegration.

If passed, the bill would mark a historic turning point. Advocates are cautiously optimistic that it will be signed into law. However, they acknowledge that legal reform alone will not be enough. Experts, including Professor Azumah, emphasize that real progress will require not only legislation but also a broader shift in societal attitudes—supported by coordinated implementation, sustained funding, and long-term commitment from both government and civil society.

Beyond legal efforts and public policy, there are deeper human dimensions to this crisis. This story is not only about injustice. It is about resilience. Women who have suffered unimaginable trauma still speak of going home. It’s about a nation confronting the crossroads between tradition and human rights. And it’s about amplifying voices that, for too long, have been silenced.

As the memory of Akua Denteh fades from headlines, Ghana must answer a critical question: will it continue to allow fear and superstition to govern the fate of its most vulnerable, or will it choose justice, dignity, and change?

NB: This story was supported by the Pulitzer Center

By Claire Thomas and Nicholas Azebire

A feat worth celebrating

In a groundbreaking achievement for Northern Ghanaian music, the music video for “Empty Grave” by Dr. Pushkin and B-Wayne has officially become the most-streamed music video from Northern Ghana on YouTube, currently nearing 1.6 million views in just seven months.

Shot at the iconic Red Clay Studio in Tamale by visionary director Junaid Timtooni Yakubu and his talented team, the video has now surpassed the legendary “Total Cheat” by Fancy Gadam and Sarkodie. This track held its dominance for eight years.

What makes this milestone even more extraordinary is that “Empty Grave” reached this height without the usual advantages:

• No big-name Southern Ghanaian feature
• No mainstream media coverage
• No industry gatekeeper support or co-sign

Instead, its rise has been powered by its raw authenticity, cinematic brilliance, and a deeply resonant social message—proof that true artistry can thrive on merit and purpose alone.

The track, written by Paul Azunre and Bismark Sombilla and produced by Paul Azunre, Dreamlife & Memory, and Peewezel, stands as a compelling piece of conscious music that refuses to compromise. Its artistic excellence has also been recognised on the international stage, with multiple awards already won and more nominations on the horizon.

Meet the Creative Powerhouse Behind Empty Grave

• Directed & Edited by: @timjooni
• Director of Photography: @nimbang__
• Production Design: @aa_fatawu
• Key Grip: @big_nabs
• Stylist: Rabiatu Abdul-Aziz
• Makeup: @kutidazzles_beauty_parlour
• Production Assistant: @salim_marlian
• BTS Coverage: @wun.yiko
• Title Card Design: @i.mreed

This success is not just a win for the team behind “Empty Grave”, but also for Northern Ghana, for independent artists, and for conscious creatives who dare to tell real stories through their art.

To every supporter who streamed, shared, and believed in this movement—thank you. You’ve helped write a new chapter in Ghanaian music history.

Congratulations to Isolirium Entertainment and the entire “Empty Grave” team! The world is watching—closely.

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has commended Ghana for fulfilling its 2025 vaccine co-financing obligation of USD 24.5 million. This timely payment is expected to bolster Ghana’s immunisation programme significantly, improve child health outcomes, and strengthen the country’s health system.

A Major Milestone in Vaccine Financing

In a press statement signed by Mr. Osama Makkawi Khogali, UNICEF Representative in Ghana, the complete and timely payment marked a significant achievement in Ghana’s commitment to child health. The country’s efforts to return to pre-COVID-19 financing performance, despite previous economic delays, were praised. “I am proud to stand with the Government of Ghana in celebrating this important milestone,” Khogali stated, emphasising that the payment reflected the government’s prioritisation of child health.

Strengthening Immunisation and Preventing Vaccine-Preventable Diseases

This payment ensures the uninterrupted supply of vaccines, which is crucial for preventing vaccine-preventable diseases and maintaining herd immunity nationwide. UNICEF highlighted that this move would also support the introduction of new vaccines, contributing to a more comprehensive immunisation programme. This is especially important as Ghana works towards reducing the impact of diseases that can be easily prevented through vaccination.

Transitioning Towards Self-Financing Immunisation Services

The statement noted that the payment marks a key moment in Ghana’s Transition Roadmap towards self-financing immunisation services, as development assistance from international bodies like Gavi gradually declines. By fulfilling its vaccine financing obligations, Ghana is taking necessary steps towards greater autonomy in managing its immunisation programmes, which will lead to stronger long-term health security.

Ensuring Long-Term Vaccine Security

UNICEF urged the government to maintain the momentum by strengthening domestic financing mechanisms to ensure long-term vaccine security. Investing in vaccines, the statement emphasised, offers one of the highest returns in public health, noting that prevention through immunisation is far more cost-effective than treatment.

A Significant Win for Child Health

This move represents a significant return to form for Ghana, which had faced delays in 2022 due to economic challenges and increased co-financing demands. The timely payment reflects Ghana’s ongoing commitment to ensuring every child is vaccinated and protected. UNICEF reaffirmed its continued support to the government to achieve universal immunisation coverage and leave no child behind.

This timely financing commitment from Ghana underscores the importance of consistent investments in vaccines to build a healthier, more resilient generation. It serves as a model for other countries working towards similar goals in child health and immunisation.

The National Peace Council (NPC) has equipped community members in the Bawku West District with the tools and skills to foster peace and social cohesion. This initiative, part of the Improving the Economic Resilience of Host Communities for Peacebuilding in Northern Ghana project, involved a two-day capacity-building workshop for opinion leaders, minority groups, refugees, and youth. The training aimed to empower these individuals to resolve conflicts, promote tolerance, and build resilience against violent extremism in their communities.

Training for Peacebuilding and Conflict Resolution – National Peace Council

A total of 24 participants from the communities of Sapeliga, Tarikom, and Widnaba attended the workshop, where they learned about peace, conflict analysis, dialogue, and mediation, as well as strategies for addressing violent extremism. The aim was to develop these individuals into peace champions who could lead conflict resolution efforts, promote social harmony, and help others understand the importance of peaceful co-existence.

“The presence of refugees and minority groups from different cultural backgrounds means that social dynamics are under pressure. For peaceful co-existence to be possible, we must build their capacity in conflict resolution and social cohesion,” said Mr. Damien A. Asobayire, Upper East Regional Executive Secretary of NPC. The project, funded by the United States Department of State, the UNDP, and the IOM, aims to empower local leaders to engage in peacebuilding efforts actively.

Addressing Social Tensions in Host Communities

Ms. Abigail Asana, a participant from Sapeliga, shared a personal story about the tensions between refugees and host community members, particularly regarding shared resources such as water. “There is no borehole for the refugees, so they depend on our community borehole. With the increased number of people, there’s always pressure on the borehole, causing discontent,” she explained.

Such situations, if not addressed, could easily lead to conflict. However, after the training, Ms. Asana felt better equipped to mediate and promote peaceful co-existence, with plans to share her newfound knowledge with her community.

Strengthening Social Cohesion and Unity

The workshop aimed to foster culturally diverse yet cohesive communities, where all groups, including youth, women, and minorities, can actively participate in maintaining peace and security. Mr. Isaac Anongwin, the Assemblyman of Tarikom, emphasised the importance of the knowledge gained in facilitating peace in his electoral area. “This training will help me to champion social cohesion in my community,” he said.

The participants were trained to be proactive in identifying early signs of conflict, allowing them to address potential issues before they escalate.

Early Warning Systems for Conflict Prevention

Mr. Ali Anankpieng, a facilitator and former Regional Executive Secretary of the NPC, emphasised the importance of being vigilant for early warning signs of conflict. He emphasised that the timely detection of these signs is crucial for preventing disputes and ensuring effective, constructive dialogue. “The ability to act early is crucial in preventing conflict and promoting peaceful resolution,” Anankpieng stated.

Empowering Local Communities for Long-Term Peace

The ultimate goal of this initiative is for participants to return to their communities and lead peacebuilding efforts, helping to identify and respond to conflicts before they escalate into crises. The NPC’s training program provides vital tools to support not just short-term conflict resolution, but also the development of long-term peace and social cohesion in the region.

By equipping community leaders and key figures with the knowledge and skills to promote peace, this project is laying the foundation for a more united and peaceful future in Bawku West.