Evelyn Adrah’s golden birthday was observed with the full dignity, reverence, and ceremonial splendor befitting a woman whose presence has long enriched Chicago’s Ghanaian community. The celebration, held at 450 East 78th Street, unfolded within a venue transformed into a stately tableau of white and gold. Soaring banners bearing her portraits framed the space with an air of regal solemnity.
Guests traveled from New York, across the United States, and from Ghana itself, a testament to the breadth of her influence and the respect she commands across the diaspora.
The event was anchored by three distinguished organizations, the Church of Pentecost, the Ewe Association of Chicago, and the Classic Ladies of Chicago; an all‑female association under the disciplined leadership of Founder and President, Jacqueline Adjeley.
Their coordinated presence lent the evening a ceremonial gravitas, reflecting unity, decorum, and the enduring strength of Ghanaian womanhood in the diaspora.
A notable shift in atmosphere occurred when the legendary emcee, Nana Yaw Marfo, assumed the microphone. His prolonged absence from community engagements had been deeply felt, and his return was greeted with unmistakable admiration. With practiced authority and refined charisma, he guided nearly four hundred attendees through the evening’s proceedings, restoring a familiar sense of order and celebratory discipline.
The ceremonial apex arrived with the grand entrance of the celebrant , who moved through the hall to the uplifting strains of “I Have a Very Big God,” accompanied by her family and flanked by the impeccably presented Classic Ladies. Her procession carried the solemnity of a cultural rite, prompting a collective moment of admiration and reflection.
Tributes from her children and friends introduced a deeply emotional interlude, drawing visible sentiment from the audience.
The president of the Classic Ladies , Jacqueline Adjeley , later invited all present to rise and dance, restoring the celebratory rhythm while maintaining the evening’s dignified tone. Her group collectively honored the celebrant with gifts and generous financial offerings, upholding the longstanding tradition of communal support and ceremonial giving.
Reverend Dzifanu Agbenya delivered a formal prayer over the birthday cake, invoking divine favor, health, and longevity as Evelyn enters her next chapter.
The celebration continued into the night as DJ Teddy sustained the atmosphere with carefully curated selections, concluding an event marked by cultural dignity, ceremonial excellence, and unwavering community solidarity.
Dr. Charles Nimmo Ntiamoah Mensah, affectionately known across the diaspora as Mr. CNN, emerged in the late 1990’s and late 2000’s as a force which propelled Ghanaian digital media, home and abroad , into a new age. At a time when the internet was still a cautious experiment in many Ghanaian homes, he was already shaping it into a powerful bridge between a nation and its global community.
His rise was not accidental. It was driven by instinct, discipline, and an unrelenting belief that Ghana’s stories deserved a global stage. That conviction led him to one of the most defining chapters of his career, a chapter that would forever link his name with the Asante monarchy.
As a journalist for Ghanaweb.com, Mr. CNN became the chronicler of Otumfuo Osei Tutu II’s international engagements, documenting the Asantehene’s travels to London, Atlanta, and Boston in 2003 and 2004. These were historic journeys, rich with diplomacy, culture, and the quiet power of a monarch strengthening ties with his people abroad. Long before social media made instant updates a norm, Mr. CNN delivered coverage that felt immediate, human, and profoundly connected.
His reporting captured not only the grandeur of the events but the intimacy of a King meeting his subjects far from home. The pinnacle of this era came when Otumfuo recently welcomed his people into his Maryland residence, a gesture of humility and unity that resonated deeply across the diaspora. In that moment, the monarch paused to acknowledge the journalist who had followed his steps with unwavering loyalty. With commendation and gratitude, Otumfuo honored Mr. CNN for his long term dedication, recognizing him as more than a reporter, but as a custodian of memory.
Years later, Dr. Charles Nimmo Ntiamoah Mensah embraced a new calling as an ordained minister of God, yet his legacy in journalism remains indelible. He was the man who documented history before the world learned to scroll, the digital pioneer who ensured that an era would never be forgotten.
His story stands as a testament to foresight, devotion, and the rare courage to preserve greatness in real time.
More than 200 worshippers, gospel music lovers, ministers and creatives from across Europe gathered in Hamburg for Daniel Jeddman’s August Praise 2026 – The Hand of God, a powerful live album recording that brought together believers from Germany, the Netherlands and surrounding European communities.
Hosted by Ghanaian-born, Germany-based gospel artist, prophet and author Daniel Jeddman, the gathering created an atmosphere of intense worship, praise and spiritual celebration as attendees joined together to glorify God through music and ministry.
From Düsseldorf, members of the Shekinah Choir and other worshippers travelled to Hamburg to support the project, while guests from several German cities and the Netherlands, including Apostle Heidi and Mr. Björn, also made the journey. The strong turnout reflected the growing reach of August Praise beyond Hamburg and its developing place within the European gospel community.
The live recording featured powerful performances from Daniel Jeddman alongside a remarkable line-up of gospel ministers and musicians, including Queen Judith, Seth Boakye, Michael Owusu, Betty Paha, K Frank, Shekinah Choir, Gabby McKeown, Nana Pee, Collins Amankwah, Niz Marceline and Danny Kay, among others.
For Jeddman, the event was more than a concert. It was a deliberate expression of faith and a platform to document what he describes as the manifestation of “The Hand of God.” The charged atmosphere, collective worship and passionate participation of the congregation created a memorable experience that will live on through the forthcoming album.
The The Hand of God live album is expected to introduce audiences around the world to the songs and moments captured during the recording. The project is expected to be released officially on YouTube and other digital platforms, giving those who could not attend the opportunity to experience the worship and testimonies from the event.
Jeddman has spent years building a gospel music and ministry presence from Germany, connecting African gospel culture with audiences across Europe. His music catalogue includes projects such as Favour, Wo’ara, Nyame and Confidence (Live).
His continued growth has also attracted industry recognition. In 2025, Jeddman was reported to have won Male Artiste of the Year – Europe at the Contemporary Gospel Music Awards. In 2026, he earned four Ghana Music Awards Europe nominations: Best Diaspora Artist of the Year, Best Diaspora Gospel Artist of the Year, Best Diaspora Gospel Song of the Year for Nyame, and Best Diaspora Male Vocalist of the Year.
The 2026 edition of August Praise also received support from respected men and women of God, including Bishop Collins Adu-Boahene and Reverend Mrs. Gifty Adu-Boahene, Pastor Desire of House of Love Ministries, Apostle William Nelson of Action Chapel, Pastor Charles of Calvary Believers Church, as well as other ministers who stood behind the project.
Special appreciation goes to the musicians, technical team, singers, volunteers and everyone who contributed to making the recording possible.
Jeddman expressed his gratitude to everyone who travelled, worshipped, supported and contributed to the success of the project. From Hamburg to Düsseldorf and other European communities, the gathering demonstrated the power of gospel music to bring people together across borders.
With the success of August Praise 2026, attention is already turning toward the future, with plans and expectations for an even bigger and brighter August Praise 2027, as God leads.
The Hand of God has indeed left its mark. What began as a live album recording became a powerful gathering of worshippers, ministers, musicians and believers united by one purpose: to give God all the glory.
For the first time in its 15-year history, the Hennessy Cypher features two Francophone African talents, as six of the continent’s most exciting hip-hop voices unite for a new collaboration produced by Sarz.
This August, Hennessy continues its hip-hop legacy with Hennessy Cypher 2026. Cameroon’s Tenor makes history as the first artist from the country to feature in the Cypher, joining Suspect 95 from Côte d’Ivoire, Yanga Chief from South Africa, Kwesi Arthur from Ghana, Fena Gitu from Kenya, and British-Nigerian rapper Enny from the United Kingdom. Under the creative direction of one of Africa’s most influential producers, Sarz, the Hennessy Cypher 2026 remains unapologetically rooted in hip-hop, pairing distinct flows and lyrical traditions with a production that honours the genre’s foundations, while pointing to its next chapter.
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“The art of blending is at the heart of Hennessy. Just as distinct eaux-de-vie are brought together to create something exceptional, this year’s Cypher unites six remarkable voices from across Africa and the United Kingdom, each bringing their own perspective and energy. It is a privilege to create a space where these artists can meet, collaborate and make something that could only exist through their collective talent”, says Aimee Kellen, Moët Hennessy, MEA Regional Marketing Director.
Few brands have a relationship with hip-hop quite like Hennessy. For decades, the Maison has been embraced by artists across generations and geographies, becoming woven into the music, communities and creative movements that continue to shape the genre. Referenced in more than 58 000 songs, Hennessy remains the most-mentioned spirit brand in music history. Hennessy Cypher 2026 continues the Maison’s longstanding commitment to championing artists shaping contemporary culture, connecting their work with new audiences worldwide.
One of Cameroon’s most recognisable contemporary artists, Tenor has built a reputation through his distinctive blend of rap, Afrobeats and storytelling. With multiple hit releases and a strong following across Francophone Africa, he remains a leading voice in Central African music.
SUSPECT 95 | CÔTE D’IVOIRE
Known for his sharp lyricism, humour and social commentary, Suspect 95 is widely regarded as one of Francophone Africa’s leading rap voices. His ability to blend entertaining storytelling with cultural insight has earned him a loyal audience across West Africa and beyond.
YANGA CHIEF | SOUTH AFRICA
Award-winning rapper, songwriter and cultural storyteller Yanga Chief is one of South Africa’s most influential voices in hip-hop. Renowned for championing local identity through his music, he has consistently advanced the culture through his distinctive style, lyricism and creative vision.
KWESI ARTHUR | GHANA
Kwesi Arthur is one of Ghana’s most celebrated contemporary artists, recognised for seamlessly blending hip-hop, Afrobeats and personal storytelling. His music has earned international acclaim and established him as one of the leading voices of a new generation of African artists.
FENA GITU | KENYA
Singer, songwriter and cultural pioneer Fena Gitu is widely regarded as one of Kenya’s most influential contemporary artists. Known for her versatility, creativity and powerful stage presence, she has spent more than a decade helping shape East Africa’s evolving music landscape.
ENNY | UNITED KINGDOM
British-Nigerian rapper and songwriter Enny has emerged as one of the most compelling voices in UK hip-hop. Hailing from South London, she is known for her thoughtful lyricism, sharp storytelling and socially conscious perspective. She has earned widespread acclaim through projects such as We Go Again and the breakout hit ‘Peng Black Girls’.
SARZ – PRODUCER| NIGERIA
Widely regarded as one of Africa’s most influential producers, Sarz has played a defining role in shaping the sound of contemporary African music. Through collaborations with some of the continent’s biggest artists, he has built a reputation for innovation, versatility and creative excellence.
CREDITS
Cypher music video directed and produced by Juan Visser/ Human Studio in Johannesburg; styled by Bee Diamondhead.
First launched in Nigeria in 2011, the Hennessy Cypher has evolved into a powerful platform for musical innovation and cultural storytelling across Africa and now the world. Known for spotlighting the continent’s most disruptive voices, the Cypher celebrates lyrical mastery, bold expression and the spirit of progress.
Each year, the Hennessy Cypher brings together a curated lineup of artists shaping the future of sound, offering them a space to express, collaborate, and represent their unique identities on a global stage.
The Hennessy Cypher is a statement of Hennessy’s ongoing commitment to African excellence, cultural progression and the art of blending music, style and storytelling.
About Maison Hennessy
Founded on Richard Hennessy’s pioneering spirit and with a legacy of over 260 years, Hennessy spans more than 150 countries while remaining deeply rooted in the Charente region of France. Exceptional cognacs are crafted using grapes nurtured by the land and only the finest natural ingredients. Enjoyed across the globe, Hennessy cognac is made for all occasions and is shared to create moments of meaning, connection, and celebration.
Beyond its iconic cognacs, Hennessy embraces cultural collaborations, evidenced through its many partnerships with visionary artists from around the world. Over the years, Hennessy has worked with cultural icons in design, art, fashion and music to celebrate a diverse range of creativity to reflect the multi-faceted nature of the brand and to bring to life the Hennessy cognac’s versatility.
For further information, serves and collaboration details, please visit Hennessy.com or follow Hennessy on Instagram.
Accra, Ghana– From streaming and gaming to reading and discovering new content, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold8 brings an expansive foldable display and intelligent Galaxy AI experiences to the content people enjoy every day. Currently available for pre-order in Ghana, Galaxy Z Fold8 combines the portability of a smartphone with an immersive, tablet-like viewing experience.
As the global leader in foldables, Samsung’s innovations have moved the category forward year after year, creating the thin, light and durable designs, innovative AI experiences and stunning displays that users love.
Galaxy Z Fold8, unveiled alongside the latest Galaxy Z series line-up at Galaxy Unpacked on July 22, continues that legacy of innovation. Its display features all-new Flex Titanium technology to make the device thin without compromising durability. The new display also creates a less visible crease for immersive viewing anytime, anywhere.
How is Galaxy Z Fold8 different from other Galaxy Z series foldables?
Galaxy Z Fold8 is designed for users who want the portability and ease of a traditional bar-type phone while still being able to enjoy the benefits of a tablet-like display. Its form factor allows you to move easily between time-sensitive actions on the cover screen to time-intensive tasks like reading, gaming and streaming on the main display.
Galaxy Z Fold8 is Samsung’s lightest Galaxy Z Fold design yet, with intuitive display ratios and long-lasting performance, making it easier to be immersed in the content, stories and ideas that you care about.
How big is the screen on Galaxy Z Fold8?
When folded, the 5.5-inch cover screen feels familiar and comfortable for the short moments people return to most often, from messaging and social updates to browsing and short-form video.
When unfolded, the 4 by 3 ratio and 7.6-inch main display create a larger canvas that helps users lose themselves in games and films.
When rotated, the 3 by 4 display ratio is ideal for reading, offering a more comfortable way to enjoy articles, e-books and long-form content.
Together, these display ratios are designed to make it more natural and comfortable to consume content, helping everything you do on Z Fold8 feel more immersive.
Why do the display ratios on Galaxy Z Fold8 matter?
A device’s display ratio helps determine how much of the screen is used when viewing photos, videos, games and other content. Display ratios play an important role in how efficiently content uses the available screen space. #GalaxyZFold8’s display ratios were chosen to reflect the way many people prefer to consume content today. The mainscreen features a 10:16 ratio, ideal for horizontal videos while the cover screen features a 4:3 ratio designed for vertical viewing. Both optimize the viewing experience for the content people naturally watch on each screen.
How does Galaxy AI enhance the Galaxy Z Fold8 experience?
Galaxy Z Fold8 offers a new kind of foldable experience built around the way people explore, discover and immerse themselves in their favourite content. #GalaxyAI has been optimized for each of the form factors in the line-up, so actions feel more connected. Multitasking is easy on the wide screens of Galaxy Z Fold8, and AI experiences, including Gemini, give Galaxy users even simpler and more intuitive ways to get things done.
How can customers pre-order Galaxy Z Fold8 in Ghana?
Galaxy Z Fold8 is currently available for pre-order in Ghana until 16 August 2026. Customers can pre-order through authorised Samsung retailers and enjoy a range of exclusive pre-order benefits, including a cover, 60W Travel Adapter, a Google AI Pro subscription worth GHS 1,740 and Samsung Care+ worth GHS 10,000, offering accidental damage and screen crack coverage.
Customers can also enjoy 15% off Galaxy Watch9 and GHS 1,250 off the 512GB or 1TB Galaxy Z Fold8 variants, subject to applicable terms and conditions.
Galaxy Z Fold8 will be available for general purchase in Ghana #SamsungGH from 17 August 2026.
