Dr Paul Azunre will be in Ghana for the first edition of nhyAImu, an artificial intelligence conference. The event is a collaboration between NLP-Ghana and the Academic City University College in Accra. Scheduled to take place on Wednesday, June 12th, 2024, from 10 am to 12 pm, nhyAImu will focus on ‘Unveiling the future of African Languages with the Khaya AI.’ As the name implies, it will be an event that prioritizes Africa’s foremost Language Translation and Speech Recognition AI tool, Khaya.
About NLP-Ghana & nhyAImu
While NLP-Ghana has been around for some time, many do not know enough about their scope of work. That includes the useability of Khaya AI and how to integrate its API into other technology products.
This conference will therefore cover topics that include the following:
Introduction to Ghana NLP and its mission
Overview of engineering pipelines emphasizing MLOps
Detailed demo and guidelines on using Khaya AI’s APIs
There will also be a Q&A session.
Dr Paul Azunre – nhyAImu-2024
Understanding the vision behind the creation of the Language App
Khaya AI has proven to be an amazing tool created and built by Dr Paul Azunre and his team at Algorine Inc. and NLP-Ghana. The artificial intelligence tool is capable of translating African languages to others and has speech recognition capabilities. These two features and the deliberate emphasis on African Language make the tool unique.
Currently, some of the African Languages Khaya can effectively translate and recognize include Twi, Dagbani, Ewe, Fante, Ga, Gurune, Kikuyu, Kimeru, Luo, and Yoruba. The Algorine team is still working with partners across Africa to ensure that African languages are an integral part of the digital and technology space.
In contemporary times, artificial intelligence is facilitating many things. From improving timelines for task execution to offering alternative ways to execute tasks, AI continues to make strides. Thus, Khaya AI as a tool for African languages makes it easier to preserve, learn, understand, and integrate African languages on platforms to make them user-friendly.
Even though Khaya AI has been around for the past few years, the creators have yet to give a massive demonstration of how it works. They have done a lot online, but with this conference, they intend to bring to the fore its actual usage—not only the usage but also to introduce the App to AI enthusiasts and people building products that can benefit from this app’s integration.
Twi is a language used in the Khaya AI App. nhyAImu is a Twi word that means “a gathering of people.” Thus, this event is a gathering of AI enthusiasts, including students, lecturers, business owners, tech entrepreneurs, and a host of others.
Dr Paul Azunre is a Tech entrepreneur and rapper who goes by name Dr Pushkin.
Traveling alone can be a fulfilling experience. It offers an opportunity to appreciate and fully immerse yourself in new cultures and landscapes. But the challenges associated with traveling are vast, especially safety. In this post I will share a few tips to note when traveling alone to and around Northern Ghana.
Understanding Northern Ghana
As you prepare for an exciting trip to Northern Ghana, it is essential to familiarise yourself with the area before you start. The region is well known for its rich and diverse cultural heritage. With numerous exciting markets, art and craft lovers find it a heaven.
For people who love breathtaking landscapes, the Northern Region would leave visitors in awe. Northern Ghana also boasts several tourist attractions that will be the icing on the cake. Travelers should endeavour to know the nature of the area. It will be useful. Especially in devising your travel routes and plans while assessing the security risks should be a priority. Once you know the security risks, mitigation becomes easier.
Before embarking on your journey, it is essential to familiarise yourself with the region you will be visiting. Northern Ghana is known for its rich cultural heritage, vibrant markets, and stunning landscapes.
However, like any travel destination, it is very important to be aware of potential safety risks and how to mitigate them. The cultural diversity of Northern Ghana is enormous, be sure to have an idea of the different ethnicities you will encounter.
What to consider before you travel
While Northern Ghana is generally safe. There are incidents of robberies, ethnic conflicts, and the likelihood of getting lost. You’ll need to consider personal safety, health, and the safety of your personal belongings.
You may consider using a tour guide for ease.
Also, where possible, you should consider travel insurance.
Knowing about local laws and customs would also come in handy. Most people in Northern Ghana still hold traditions in high regard. Knowing the above will help avoid being offensive to locals. For example, learn how to wear hats in Tamale.
You should also ensure you have all necessary vaccinations, such as yellow fever, a malaria vaccine, and any others.
If you are not like me, you’ll try to avoid street food and sachet water.
As a personal preference, I always carry a first aid kit with painkillers, medications for malaria, something to help with stomach aches, and any other essentials that can come in handy. I do so because there are many places where access to healthcare is a nightmare.
Before your trip, keep copies of your travel documentation, passport, and all other necessary documents with someone before you leave.
Be sure to have a reliable means of communication.
You will also want to know the weather conditions before you set off. Northern Ghana generally experiences a dry season and a rainy season. The rainy season can be a hindrance in accessing several places. Thus, knowing the weather pattern will help you avoid getting stuck on your journey.
Have a fair idea of nearby medical facilities close to your locations.
If you prefer driving, it is worth knowing the road conditions. You can also hire a local driver who knows his way around.
Finally, you’ll need a list of emergency contacts. That list should include your country’s embassy, local authorities, and insurance provider.
With the above done, you can enjoy that lifetime thrill of traveling through and around Northern Ghana.
Tips for the actual journey
You would also do well to seek permission before taking pictures.
Be aware of your surroundings, avoid displaying valuables, and avoid too many distractions.
Use reputable transport and accommodation services.
You may want to prioritize traveling during the day instead of just at night.
Where the services of a guide is needed, be sure they have a good reputation.
Keep valuables safe by ensuring they are in secure places.
Don’t stand out. In many places, criminals target people who they know are not indigenes or locals. So, while it may be evident that you are a tourist or traveler, do not exhibit any naivete to attract attention.
Always be hydrated and well-rested.
While on the journey, stay connected to someone at home or with other companions. Check in regularly to let them know you are safe.
Listen to local advice. Paying attention to advice from local authorities and experienced people.
As you journey with an open mind, be prepared for emergencies.
In all of it, trust your instincts.
Who are the Bulsa Ethnic Group?
Be culturally sensitive; respect your hosts.
Your journey is to experience diversity on many fronts. From culture to landscape, you will encounter different things. To fully enjoy the hospitality in all places, you must be culturally sensitive and respectful.
Your cultural preferences must not become the reason you trample on other people’s cultures. How people dress, hand gestures, and how to address the elderly and chiefs are very important on trips like this. Also, you should try to know what aspects of your culture may be offensive. For example, it is culturally unacceptable to wear footwear before many chiefs. The use of the left hand in greetings or gesturing can also be offensive. Once you respect the culture of the people, you will earn some love from the locals.
Stick to your plan.
While traveling alone can sometimes offer the will to make detours, it is best to avoid such unplanned changes to your itinerary. This is because you may not have been adequately prepared to visit other places. Travel and enjoy the beauty of your destination and journey; don’t outdo yourself with extra stops.
Remember to always have your emergency contacts at hand. See you around!
Here are some tourist attractions you may be interested in:
Khaya is Language AI that helps translate and recognise speeches. Checkout it out for Northern Ghana Languages. It may just save you a lot of talk-time.
Fancy Gadam has once again mesmerised fans with an impressive accompaniment to his song “If”. The ‘explicit’ song performed over an endearing beat is a danceable song through which the artiste cautions his partner against not climaxing during a sexual encounter. While the subject matter may be controversial, the musician minces no words in expressing the importance of intimacy in a relationship.
‘If’ is the latest song from this prolific hitmaker from the Northern Regional Capital of Ghana.
Who is Fancy Gadam?
This musical enigma was born Mujahid Ahmed Bello on January 1, 1988, in Gurugram, a town in the Northern Region of Ghana. He eventually picked up music as he encountered more and more of the music culture of his ethnicity. As a young man in contemporary times, a fusion of his nature and trendy sound would urge him to stand out and do music professionally.
Fancy-Gadam—IF
The young Gadam completed both his Basic School and Secondary School in Tamale, the Capital of Ghana’s Northern Region. The hurdles associated with accessing higher education did not affect his love of music; thus, when the opportunity presented itself, he pursued it. From participating in talent shows with his dance and musical prowess, he honed his talent and became ready for mainstream music. Music Industry insiders in the Northern Region saw his potential and pushed his craft leading to a breakthrough as a musician.
Despite making Waves in the Northern Region, the release of “Total Cheat” which featured Sarkodie was the defining moment for Fancy Gadam. The amazing musician was already known to be the only artist who was filling up stadia and any venues he held events. Interestingly, most of such events were hosted and headlined by himself.
‘Total Cheat’ coincided with one of those stadia-filling moments, making Fancy Gadam a sensation across Ghana. After riding on the back of that song to nationwide recognition, he released more chart-topping songs including “Customer,” “Concrete,” and “Sofo Moko,” and several others.
His musical style is unique. He fuses Afrobeat, Dancehall, and ethnic Dagomba vibes to offer something refreshing for music lovers.
Fancy Gadam‘s story is one that inspires; talent, perseverance, and dedication remain the key to his success.
His Most Popular Songs
This incredibly talented artiste has several songs that have dominated the airwaves. In Ghana and Beyond, some of his songs are seen as what describes his stature. Notable among them are the following;
1. “Total Cheat” ft. Sarkodie: This undoubtedly is the biggest song. It is what propelled him to the rest of Ghana and the world. Many argue, there might never be another song that big from him.
2. “Customer” ft. Patoranking: This also topped the charts, and was Fancy Gadam’s first international collaboration.
3. “Concrete”: This song proved that the artiste didn’t always need a collaboration to prove his worth.
4. “Sofo Moko”: This was also a furtherance of his stature as an artiste.
5. “Yaka Chana”: As an artiste whose musical influences include his cultural heritage, he used this to project and celebrate his traditions.
Fancy Gadam has many more hit songs, however, the above standout in his career per thesavannaonline‘s analysis.
Fancy Gadam is a renowned musician from the Northern Regional Capital of Ghana.
Top Tourist Sites in Northern Ghana: Discover the Hidden Gems
Table of Contents
Today, we explore the Top Tourist Sites of Northern Ghana. Are you looking to explore the rich cultural heritage and natural wonders of Ghana? Look no further than the northern part of the country. With its fascinating history, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant traditions, Northern Ghana has become a magnet for tourists from around the world. In this comprehensive guide, we will take you on a journey through the top tourist sites in the region, unveiling the hidden gems that make it a must-visit destination.
Larabanga Mosque: A Testament to Time
Larabanga Mosque
One of the oldest mosques in Africa, the Larabanga Mosque is a true architectural marvel. Located in Northern Ghana, it was built-in the year 1421. This historic site has stood the test of time, with its core foundation remaining intact and unchanged. While the mosque has undergone restoration and architectural works over the centuries, its original essence has been preserved. As you step foot into Larabanga, you will be captivated by the spiritual aura that surrounds this sacred place.
Mole National Park: Where Wildlife Thrives
Mole National Park
This arguably the most popular tourist site in Northern Ghana.
For nature enthusiasts, a visit to Mole National Park is a must. This expansive wildlife sanctuary is home to a diverse range of species, making it a paradise for animal lovers. As you explore the park, you will encounter majestic African bush elephants, graceful antelopes, and a myriad of other fascinating creatures. The park also boasts a rich variety of tree species, adding to its natural beauty. Whether you are embarking on a thrilling safari or indulging in birdwatching, Mole National Park promises to leave you awestruck.
Daboya: A Town of History and Craftsmanship
Daboya
A trip to Northern Ghana can be likened to a Time Travel experience. Step back in time as you visit Daboya, a town steeped in history and craftsmanship. Once renowned for its salt mining industry, Daboya was a thriving commercial hub. Today, while the salt market has declined, the town still preserves its cultural heritage through its hand-woven traditional smocks. As you wander through the streets of Daboya, you will witness the intricate artistry of the locals, who continue to weave these beautiful garments. With its rich history and unique craftsmanship, Daboya has the potential to become a major tourist destination in Ghana.
The Mystic Stone: A Divine Wonder
The Mystic Stone
Many associate mysticisms with Northern Ghana, this particular site, lends credence to this belief. Located near Damongo, the Mystic Stone holds a mystical allure that draws visitors from far and wide. This enigmatic stone is believed to possess divine powers, as it has remained in the same spot for centuries, defying all attempts to move it. The stone serves as a place of worship for the local community, who come here to seek blessings from their ancestors. As you stand in the presence of the Mystic Stone, you will feel a sense of reverence and awe, connecting with the ancient traditions of the region.
Gbele Game Reserve: A Wildlife Haven
Gbele Game Reserve
The very obscure region of Northern Ghana has something to offer visitors as well. Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature at Gbele Game Reserve. Nestled in the Upper West region of Ghana, this wildlife reserve boasts an incredible array of animals and birds. From antelopes and warthogs to monkeys and baboons, the reserve is teeming with life. The open savannah woodland provides a unique backdrop for your adventure, as you embark on nature hikes and birdwatching expeditions. For a truly unforgettable experience, spend a day at the reserve, surrounded by the sights and sounds of the wild.
Wa Naa’s Palace: A Historical Marvel
Wa Naa’s Palace
To experience the unique architecture of Northern Ghana, a trip to Wa is necessary. Journey into the heart of Wa, the regional capital of the Upper West region, and discover the majestic Wa Naa’s Palace. This historic palace, built in the early 19th century, is a testament to the rich heritage of the Wala people. Its Sudanese mud-brick architectural style stands as a symbol of protection against the slave traders of the past. As you explore the palace, you will be transported back in time, witnessing the grandeur of the royal home and the final resting place of former kings. The Wa Naa’s Palace is a must-visit for history buffs and culture enthusiasts alike.
Wechiau Hippopotamus Sanctuary: Where Nature Flourishes
Wechiau Hippopotamus Sanctuary
Experience the wonders of the animal kingdom at the Wechiau Hippopotamus Sanctuary. Located along the Black Volta River, this sanctuary is home to a thriving population of hippos, as well as a diverse range of wildlife. Hop on a boat and cruise along the river, getting up close and personal with these magnificent creatures. The sanctuary also offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture, as you interact with the friendly townsfolk and partake in traditional festivities. A visit to the Wechiau Hippopotamus Sanctuary is an adventure you won’t want to miss.
Paga Crocodile Pond: Where Humans and Crocodiles Coexist
Wechiau Hippopotamus Sanctuary
In the town of Paga, a fascinating relationship exists between humans and crocodiles. The Paga Crocodile Pond is a place where these fearsome reptiles live in harmony with the local community. Visitors can marvel at the sight of crocodiles basking in the sun and even pose for photos beside them. The spiritual connection between the people of Paga and their crocodile companions is believed to be rooted in the presence of ancestral spirits. This extraordinary bond has turned Paga Crocodile Pond into a unique tourist attraction, drawing curious travelers from all corners of the globe.
Tongo Rocks and Tengzug Shrines: Ancient Wonders
Tongo Rocks and Tengzug Shrines
Tongo, the capital of the Talensi-Nandam District, holds two hidden treasures: Tongo Rocks and Tengzug Shrines. The Tongo Rocks, also known as the Whispering Rocks, are a series of fascinating rock formations that defy gravity. Their mysterious arrangement and the whistling sounds they produce during the harmattan season make them a sight to behold. At the top of the rocks, you will discover the ancient Tengzug Shrine, a place of religious significance for the local community. Witness age-old rituals and immerse yourself in the rich traditions of the Talensis people. The Tongo Rocks and Tengzug Shrines offer a glimpse into Ghana’s ancient past.
Conclusion: Uncovering the Treasures of Northern Ghana
As you delve into the top tourist sites of Northern Ghana, you will be rewarded with a wealth of natural wonders, cultural heritage, and historical marvels. From the mystical Larabanga Mosque to the breathtaking landscapes of Mole National Park, the region offers a diverse range of experiences for every traveler. Whether you are seeking adventure, tranquility, or a deeper connection with Ghana’s rich traditions, Northern Ghana has it all. Embark on a journey of discovery and uncover the hidden gems that make this region a true treasure trove.
Pius, known in musical circles as Honcho Neggar is about to set “rap-dom” off with pure genius lyrics. Known for his grit-filled bars in English, Kasem, and occasionally Twi. Expectations can only be as high as the heavens. His stand apart nature breeds one of the highest anticipated EP’s in recent times. Ordinarily, one would view the craving as a supposition, however, Honcho Neggar’s previous body-of-work lends credence to what we all anticipate.
What to Expect
The Experiences EP is an embodiment of everything rap and Hip hop. Suffice to say, despite being a musical genre, rap music is a tool that allows for infusions that spiral growth in many areas. It doesn’t just stay entertainment, and that is what the quick-witted Honcho Neggar specializes in. Having churned out many songs to prove relevance, dexterity, depth as a thinker, as well as a force to reckon with; one of Navrongo’s foremost lyricist is set to outdoor his first EP, The Experiences EP.
In a post on Facebook, the enigmatic rapper had the following to say about The Experiences EP.
“A man largely is a product of his environment. Whatever he experiences becomes his reality, unless after he encounters another culture that challenges his ways and he succumbs.”
This reveals a lot about what to expect. The chronicles of what makes a man, the effects of acculturation, and the possibility of coming up trumps. All beautifully put on beats.
According to Honcho Neggar, The Experiences EP captures vividly his experiences from birth to date. This encompasses all spheres of his socio-cultural experiences. From faith, all through to politics. Aspiring to leave his audience with an impressive memory with picturesque lyrics, he goes candid on all verses.
Preview of the EP
The Experiences EP has only two features; Alaptawan, and Tangasugu.
A precursor to this thought-winding EP was released sometime last year.
Bloodsuckers was more of a swipe at what politics in Ghana truly stands for. The song received ovatious reviews, what would the public say about The Experiences EP?
He’s assured listeners of themes that revolve around his Personal Life, Alcoholism, Tribalism/Ethnocentrism/Racism, Unity, among other sub-themes. All the songs were produced and mastered by three of Navrongo’s finest beatmakers: Masta Khen, D’fly, and KobbyBeats.
The six-track EP is a potpourri and is set to be released on the 24th of October, a day after Honcho Neggar’s birthday.
The sight and the overall experience of Pikworo slave camp takes away all doubts about the veracity and reality of the slave trade in Africa. The presence of empirical evidence in the form of relics is enough to disabuse all doubting minds. Perhaps the cliché, “seeing is believing” should be the emphasis here.
Pikworo Slave Camp is geographically situated approximately 3 KM West of Paga in the Upper East regions of Ghana. It’s located in a village called ‘Nania’. The camp is one of the few tourist sites in Africa with remarkable routes of historic relevance and is known in history as the hoarding, auctioning, and transmission point of slaves. It acted as a transit camp for the slave trade. Slaves were held hostage in the Pikworo slave camp before being transferred to Salaga in the Northern Region. In short, it acted as an intermediary between slave traders.
The Story behind the Camp.
Legend has it that, the Pikworo Slave Camp was founded by a brave hunter and farmer. The village (Nania) was then developed into a trading centre for the Hausa, Mossi, and Zambrama traders where their exchange activities took place.
The story of the slave trade sound is really gory sometimes. However, coming face to face with the facts of history gives a refreshing feeling of how far we have come as humans in our very existence. It’s sometimes incomprehensible and shocking how the purpose of a fully-fleshed human being could be altered and converted to the extent of being a slave. But the evidence available is more factual than fiction.
Centuries back, the slave trade was a very lucrative business activity and because of its dominant nature, it enriched slave masters and other people of higher ranks in the slave market. Nania became the first stopover and an auction market for slaves captured in surrounding lands as well as those brought from the Sahara. It was situated in a very rocky area hence the name ‘Pikworo’ which means ‘rocks of fear’. The rocky nature of the place largely defined the living conditions of the slaves in the camp.
Pikworo-Slave-Camp
Living the Camp before a journey to the unknown
Life in the camp could best be described as rude and crude. Unlike the luxuries we enjoy today, slaves captured and sent to Nania had to be tied against trees and rocks to sleep. They ground cereals on rocks. They prepared food on rocks. They ate from holes created on rocks and drank from a non-drying opening in rocks.
They walked barefooted and experienced inhuman treatments as penalties for wrongdoing or non-compliance with directives. For instance, there was a site of the camp dedicated to punishing slaves where they were tied to a rock and made to watch the sun. Dead slaves were buried in groups in a single hole dug around the camp and covered with a medium-sized rock placed on top of the grave as an epitaph to indicate the site as a burial ground for the dead.
Ingenuity of captives
One interesting aspect about the stopover of slaves at Nania was that, despite the harsh conditions they faced, slaves had the chance of producing music with stones used to hit the rocks in a rhythmic manner, creating a pleasant sound with some of the slaves dancing to the tune. In all it won’t be wrong to say slaves in Pikworo slave camp lived “rocky” lives since almost every aspect of their lives was hinged on rocks.
Visiting the Pikworo slave camp gives a lot of flashbacks and touching memories to behold-Memories that indicate the actual toil of our forefathers and some of the circumstances they faced and memories that give you insights towards making the world a better place. Until you visit the ‘Pikworo’ slave camp, you’ll always be tempted to liken the storylines of “12 years a slave” to “Tom and Jerry”.
The former is a real-life issue and the latter is fiction. Don’t dwell in doubts for the rest of your life. Spare a moment, explore and reconnect with the past: it’s a priceless experience.
Humans have thrived across varied geographic locations for only one reason, ‘The Other Truth”.
Sometimes we need people to remind us of beauty, the beauty of our traditions and the fact that our ethnographic belonging is not by mere coincidence or a grand plot by nature to render us poor or lesser citizens of the world.
THE OTHER TRUTH
What Influences the Other Truth
Our being a part of a society, which seems damned because of the comparisons often carried out by our minds based on what the media portrays as the ideal society in a modern world continues to harm our progress as a people belonging to an ethnic minority.
Technological advancement may have a role to play in our ill appreciation of our world, yet a careful look will suggest our appreciation of technology is also based on a rather pathetic look at the sophisticated societies with sophisticated problems. Technology is to make us improve on our traditional ways of doing things and not necessarily take us away from “who we are” and make us “who they are”.
I have often bemoaned the seeming stagnant state of our development as a people; this seemed true until a lady by name Barbara pointed out some of the other truth to me. I say the other truth because most of what we pitifully moan about is also a form of truth. The challenges we as a people from a presumably minor ethnic group face is presumably vast.
All the sectors that drive the economy of our nation averagely do not consider our input as significant. It may be true, but the truth or false aspect of it lies in our point of view as per who we are and what we have.
The Consequences of Our Thoughts
Many of us dwell on the problems/challenges we face in savanna and hardly ever consider the beauty/opportunities we as people are blessed with. God/Nature has never planted people in an area that can’t be used as a transformational tool in our pursuit of progress.
The Other Truth
We are rich yet we do not see, we have rich cultural practices, yet we prefer a foreign culture, we live in Fumbisi and still think we should live somewhere else to make us accepted.
Reflecting on the other truth in Sandema
The past 2 months in Sandema gave me an opportunity to reflect on the words of Barbara Meier, which suggests we should make the most of our ethnographical location.
As I spent hours running around Buluk I began to appreciate it more and more. As I saw the green fields with men and women busy tilling the soil in anticipation of a successful harvest season. I realized what we often refer to as peasant farming is a proof of potential large-scale farming and can therefore be improved.
Our unique and tenacious spirit
As I saw boys aged 13-display great knowledge of animal husbandry, I realized the natural intelligence of our “village folk”.
The distances young boys and girls have to travel to attend schools in some of the villages after a whole lot of house chores in the morning suggested how industrious, ambitious and determined we are and can be.
Despite the unavailability of electricity in some of the towns and villages one can only imagine how/why that is not used as an excuse to study yet determined pupils and students can be found busily studying with the aid of lanterns.
The preserved cultures/traditions can’t be left out, people greeting you and being concerned about your day obviously is a show of love from a fellow man. People’s willingness to help you get to your destination without asking for anything in return is so awesome. The communal spirit can still be seen when people gather to plow the lands of their neighbors, which is simply amazing.
The beautiful scenery that greet us in almost every town/village and the freshness of the air we breath, the rock formations with beautiful shade from trees all over Buluk make an ideal destination for campers and picnics. The beautiful view of the stars not forgetting the moon, that lying on a “gbung” gives you can only be experienced and not imagined.
The Other Truth in Builsaland (Buluk)
There is so much that can be said about Buluk positively, yet we do not seek to utilize those positives to improve our society. We rather dwell on the negatives which can be attributed to the corruption of our minds by the “powers that be” (media and the few citizens who have spent some time in other parts of the country or world).
All the above when carefully analysed can be transformed into viable economic and cultural gain. But we assume it is too much work. Policy makers have constantly made us think, it will take the policies of other parts of the world or of the country to make us a “better” people.
How can we make us better without building on the positives of our society, shall we continue to presume everything about us is substandard? I will say a big NO, but it’s beyond an individual. It will take all of us to build a better society in all aspects of our lives.
My commitment is to use what we have to the best advantage of Buluk, what is yours?
There are varied truths and depending on which we accept, the journey to a “better” Buluk and savanna either becomes shorter and fun or a sophisticated set of trial and errors.
The choice is ours. The Other Truth can be created.
Kelewele is Sherifa Gunu’s newest song; a typical dance-tune with a good dose of positive vibe. The amazing singer and dancer seems to have heard the cries of fans and has therefore release a precursor to some amazing projects she’s been working on with her management. For fans, it is refreshing to know she hasn’t lost her musical prowess.
She recently bemoaned the indifferent nature of Ghana music , likening it to a stagnant if not dieing industry. Whilst pundits and music lovers blame the lackluster nature of today’s Ghana music on musicians & their record labels, Sherifa Gunu believes the structures remain the problem. As an effort to prove that the quality and creativity hasn’t dipped,
Kelewele is meant to send everyone tapping their feet and approaching the dancefloor. A sign that, music made in Ghana is still infectious. The success of Kelewele may just prove why she thinks the industry can survive if attention is paid to ensuring the structures survive.
What is exceptional about Sherifa Gunu
With dance as one of her strengths, Sherifa Gunu composes music to elicit the dance in all of us. It is not surprising, that Kelewele is fast evading the places of bad music on the dancefloor, with adjoining massive airplay across the nation.
In recent times the accentuated voices of artistes can be heard across media platforms, bemoaning the high cost of promoting their creative works; Sherifa Gunu in a bid to score more points in the promotion of Kelewele brought her comic side to life.
In an interview with the Communications director of Zylofon Media, Samuel Atuobi Baah aka Sammy Flexx, who also doubles as the host of Zylofon Fm’s “Showbiz Agenda”, Sherifa threatened to beat up any deejays and/or radio presenters who refuse to promote Kelewele. She made the fun-threat amidst laughter, and obviously endeared herself into the hearts of all in the studio. This may explain the steady but quick rise of Kelewele.
For a prolonged period Sherifa Gunu has been dormant in the release of new tunes. Despite frequently coming up in the news for other reasons, it was as if she got burnt-out with the saturated Ghana music industry. However, having emerged from a divorce, Sherifa Gunu believes the rejuvenation from the time-off is worth some spicy Kelewele.
