“He told us that one day, Namibia would miss the type of person he was and what he was trying to achieve. That is evident today.” These are the words of Namibian musician Mr Makoya one year after late president Hage Geingob’s death. From music to pageantry and sport, those who engaged with ‘Omes’ recall a leader who not only supported, but also actively participated in their endeavours. Miss Namibia director Umbi Karuaihe-Upi remembers the former president’s encouragement of the creative sector. “I’m very sure his leadership played a major role in supporting and recognising the arts, culture and sport. It is evident in the time he gave all these areas,” she says. “He made time to attend sport events and musical gatherings such as the Namibian Annual Music Awards. His jovial and approachable demenour encouraged artists to seek his engagement.”

Tol Ass Mo's interview on Podcast and Chill had all the tea and it was served hot as the comedian came for everyone he could think of. Having recently addressed Gogo Maweni's alleged crimes, Mo doubled down by accusing her of making her child sick and even dragged Gogo Skhotheni into the roast. Mo claims Skhotheni's late son and Maweni's epileptic child are the results of dealing with muti while pregnant: "When you're pregnant, stay away from muti because your child is going to be affected. The results show, she told the world that her child suffers from epilepsy, also what happened to Skhotheni's son."

South African media personality Ntsiki Mazwai never shies away from speaking her mind on issues that affect Mzansi. The Moya podcast host reacted to a photo of a group of young boys showing off their alcohol stock. The men posed next to lots of Savanna bottles which spelt the word 'West.' Ntsiki Mazwai grumbled that there is an alcohol problem in South Africa, saying it is a sad sight to see. "It’s so sad ? all the Africans know is to post alcohol." Check out her reaction on X below:

Thuso Mbedu is among the many KZN stars who have taken the world by storm with their talents. Hailing from Pietermaritzburg, affectionately known as the Sleepy Hollow, the actress rose from humble beginnings to global recognition. Thuso who just starred in the star-studded Mufasa: The Lion King alongside stars like Aaron Pierre, Beyoncé and John Kani carries the essence of KwaZulu-Natal wherever she goes. Mbedu first rose to prominence with her breakout performance in the American drama miniseries The Underground Railroad, followed by her powerful role in the critically acclaimed blockbuster The Woman King, featuring the legendary Viola Davis. Mbedu recently bagged the lead role in the highly anticipated film Children of Blood and Bone, which will be filmed in South Africa. The star spoke about landing the role in an emotional Instagram post, saying it was a dream come true.

The South African talented actress Tessa Twala opened up about some secrets about the film industry with the media. Maybe a lot of people have been wondering what goes down during all those sex and kiss scenes that happen during their favourite TV shows. Luckily Mzansi's 35-year-old actress Tessa Twala gave us a scope of which scenes are actually fake and not real. According to Daily Sun, the actress who announced that she had BBL surgery revealed that the kissing and intimacy scenes are not real and that things are being done differently in the industry than before.

Afrika Mdutyulwa, professionally known as Smash Afrika, was revealed as the new host of Big Brother Mzansi's fifth season late last year. As the host of one of the most controversial shows on Mzansi screens, he leads viewers through the show's dramatic moments, including challenges and eliminations. While some fans admire his bold fashion choices and charisma, others find his hosting abilities lacking. The Sunday eviction nights are always highly anticipated since that’s when he gets to ask questions that stir things up in the house, questions that reveal conversations that were had in private among other housemates. But Smash Afrika's questioning style is being criticised for being too safe and boring.

The event is dedicated to empowering women across the musical spectrum and is set to take place from March 5 to 9, in Sandton, Johannesburg. Bringing together an impressive roster of female artists, producers and songwriters from South Africa, including Makhadzi, Moonchild Sanelly, Mawhoo, Shekhinah and Lulu from the UK, the camp is set to highlight the often-overlooked contributions of women in a rapidly evolving industry. Other female artists who will be participating include Kenyan-born singer Xenia Manasseh, American-Ghanaian singer Amaarae and Cameroon singer Libianca among others. The music industry, while thriving, continues to show a stark gender disparity, notably in songwriting, production and leadership roles.

These female trailblazers, hailing from 32 nations, including France, India, Japan and Switzerland, exemplify how women are reshaping diverse sectors including arts, cybersecurity, science and even traffic safety. “Forbes” shared: “These women are building wealth, creating jobs and proving that age is not an impediment to making a lasting impact on the world.” Leading the pack of South African honourees is Koyo Kouoh, the executive director and chief curator of the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa in Cape Town. Renowned as the largest museum dedicated to contemporary African art globally, the Zeitz Museum showcases the rich heritage of the continent and its diaspora.

Renowned for her powerful vocals and soul-stirring melodies, Maddy Maznaz is set to bless her fans with a brand-new gospel track. The singer, known for blending contemporary sounds with deep spiritual messages, took to social media to tease the upcoming release, sparking excitement among her followers. The title of her yet to be released gospel song is “Bread of life”. In a cryptic post, Maddy shared a short clip featuring an uplifting melody, accompanied by a heartfelt caption: “Today marking the first Sunday in February, and my first Sunday as a new creation to uphold my creator and lover forever! I can’t wait to drop this gospel anthem to the masses to dance and celebrate the goodness of the lord! “Happy Sunday, Happy New month.” She took her inspiration from the book of Isaiah 43:18-19 which reads: God says, “Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past!”

Ghanaian gospel musician Cecilia Marfo has expressed disappointment in her colleague Diana Asamoah after the latter publicly criticised Prophet Ogyaba following the controversy surrounding his extramarital affairs. In a video that has gone viral on January 4, 2025, Cecilia Marfo cautioned Diana Asamoah, stating that her criticism was unnecessary. She also warned that Diana Asamoah, whom she claims is secretly involved in fictitious actions, would soon face a similar situation, one that would be worse than what Prophet Ogyaba is currently going through. "What will happen to you will be worse than what he is going through. I believe in God, and I know that will happen. You are doing things that could make someone backslide. You have a big mouth, but I know God will punish you soon... When we come online, sometimes we don't reflect God's greatness in our lives. We've ignored God. David was a sinner, and he even had his way with someone's wife," she said.

Aya RamzyB, a musician based in Takoradi, is one of the people who believe that hiplife artiste Castro is alive, despite the fact that he has legally been declared dead. Speaking to DJ Slim in an interview on Daybreak Hitz, Ramzy said the fact that Castro has not been found does not mean he is dead. "Castro dey! 'Rest in Peace to Castro' should be erased! He's still where he is, Castro is there. If you haven't seen him don't say something has happened to him," he stated. He further emphasised, "I, RamzyB, know and believe Castro is alive and he would come out. I believe he's in a different country and he's alive." Ramzy's comment comes ten years after Castro's disappearance. The Evidence Act, 1975, declares one dead if they get missing and are not found within a seven-year period.

Ghanaian musician Belinda Nana Ekua Amoah, known as Mzbel, openly shares her preference for dating married men. In an interview with Empress Gifty, Mzbel revealed she prefers married men. She stated that married men bring fewer responsibilities and less stress since they must attend to their wives. “Since I started dating, I’ve always chosen married men because they come with fewer responsibilities. They don’t bother me with house chores, as they have to return to their wives. I like it that way because that’s how I started,” she said. When asked about her current relationship with a married man, Mzbel hesitated to reveal his identity. However, she confirmed they are engaged and have a child together. “I haven’t asked if he’s married because I don’t want to know. I’m not married, but I’m engaged. He hasn’t met my family yet. We’re both interested in each other, and that’s what matters. I asked for a ring, and he gave it to me,” she said.

Even though he was 100% sure he was going to win his first Grammy award on Sunday after getting his fourth nomination in the Best Global Music Performance category when the nominations list was announced in November 2024, renowned Ghanaian reggae musician, Rocky Dawuni couldn’t meet his expectations. The outcome at the awards ceremony held at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles on Sunday, February 2 was not favourable to the artiste and Ghana, who were eagerly waiting for their first Grammy win. Unfortunately, Rocky Dawuni didn’t win the Best Global Music Performance award with his uplifting single, Rise. Instead, the song, “Bemba Colora,” by Sheila E. featuring Gloria Estefan and Mimy Succar won the category, making it a fourth Grammy loss for Rocky Dawuni

Ghanaian music sensation Black Sherif has proven once again that he is not just a star but also a student of music history. On Monday, February 3, the award-winning artist visited Highlife legend Amakye Dede at his home to express his gratitude for the inspiration that has fueled his career. Growing up in Asante Akyem, Black Sherif’s artistic foundation was built on the melodies of Amakye Dede, whom he referenced in one of his earlier songs. During the visit, Black Sherif revealed that his upcoming album, Iron Boy, will be named after Amakye Dede. Amakye Dede, who is celebrating his 50th anniversary in music this year, couldn’t contain his joy. “Much love and respect to you and your management for this great honor! I’m truly humbled by your visit and the love you’ve shown. Highlife will forever live on, and seeing the new generation carry the torch means everything.

While the full release is still under wraps, fans have already been treated to a single off the project Rollercoaster featuring Xlimkid & Arathejay, released in November 2024. The song fuses high-energy hiplife with infectious modern melodies, setting the tone for what’s to come. With fresh beats, cutting-edge production, and raw lyrical energy, DJ Breezy brings you a whole new wave of music. DJ Breezy pushes the boundaries of highlife and hiplife by reimagining them in a contemporary context while staying rooted in Ghanaian culture on The New Generation. The New Generation won’t just be an album, it shall a statement to welcome the future of sound, style, and culture.

Shakira took home the award for Best Latin Pop Album at the 2025 Grammy Awards, further cementing her status as a global music icon. “I want to dedicate this award to all my immigrant brothers and sisters in this country. You are loved, you are worth it, and I will always fight with you,” Shakira said after accepting her award. It’s her first US Grammy appearance since 2007. Shakira shouted out her sons on stage: “I’m so proud of you guys, of your kind hearts. Thank you so much for supporting me the way you do. I love you.”

In recent years, audiences have become increasingly interested in independent films, eager to watch new and diverse stories that reflect reality with authenticity and depth. This growing interest has led to a rise in independent directors excited to share their perspectives, shedding light on issues often left unaddressed in mainstream media. One such director is Egyptian filmmaker Mohamed Rashad, whose feature debut, THE SETTLEMENT, will have its world premiere in the newly launched Perspectives Section of the 75th Berlin International Film Festival, running from February 13th to the 24th. The first thing that comes to mind with the word "settlement" is its historical connotation of isolation, reminiscent of places where patients are separated from society due to fears of spreading infection.

Lutfi was born on 3 January 1937 as Paula Mohamed Mostafa Shafiq to a Polish mother and an Egyptian father. She started acting when she was young and quickly starred in many Egyptian films. Renowned director Ramsis Naguib discovered her talent, and she played her first role in the film Sultan (1958). Then, she got another small role in the big hit Bab El-Hadid (Cairo Station, 1958), directed by Youssef Chahine. After that, Lutfi acted alongside the greatest talents of her day, pilling up a rich artistic legacy. Her best works include Hobi Al-Wahid (My Only Love, 1960), Al-Khataya (Sins, 1962), Al-Nadara Al-Sawda (Dark Glasses,1963), Al-Mustahil (The Impossible, 1966), Qasr El-Shouk (El-Shouk Palace, 1967), Ayyam Al-Hob (Days of Love, 1968), and Abi Fouq Al-Shagara (My Dad Atop a Tree, 1969).

NEW YORK (AP) — Before they hit the stage every night, Irish siblings Anna Mai and Fergus Fitzpatrick share a special ritual: A hug and a low five. “Like a high five, but instead of going high with it, we go lower just to be different,” Fergus Fitzpatrick says laughing. It’s a sweet way to check in for a brother and sister dancing duo who are propelling “Riverdance 30 — The New Generation,” a touring celebration of the show that put Irish dance on the global map and has deepened their bond. “Me and Anna Mai have grown up dancing together. So we’re like siblings, but we’re also like best friends,” says Fergus. “We always have that support system.” Both were veteran winners of Irish dance competitions when they joined “Riverdance” in 2017, Fergus a few weeks ahead of Anna Mai.

MAYVILLE, N.Y. (AP) — In 2022, Salman Rushdie was about to deliver a lecture before a live audience in western New York when a man ran towards him and plunged a knife into the author’s hand as he raised it in self-defense. “After that there are many blows, to my neck, to my chest, to my eye, everywhere,” Rushdie recalled in a memoir that followed. “I feel my legs give way, and I fall.” In the coming weeks, Rushdie is expected to return to the same New York county to recount the experience as one of the first witnesses in the trial of the man charged with wielding the knife that day, Hadi Matar. Jury selection got underway Tuesday. Matar, 27, of Fairview, New Jersey, has pleaded not guilty to charges of attempted murder and assault.

“Another Simple Favor,” Paul Feig’s sequel to his 2018 noir comedy starring Anna Kendrick and Blake Lively, will open the SXSW Film and TV Festival. Organizers of the Austin, Texas, festival announced Tuesday that the long-awaited “A Simple Flavor” sequel will kick of this year’s edition on March 7. The Amazon MGM release plots another twist-filled round of murder and betrayal, with Stephanie Smothers (Kendrick) and Emily Nelson (Lively) heading to an Italy wedding on Capri. “When we saw this film last fall, we instantly knew it had to open SXSW — it gave us that electric feeling we live for as programmers,” said Claudette Godfrey, festival vice president, in a statement. SXSW has hosted Feig’s films before, including a work-in-progress screening of “Bridesmaids” in 2011 and the premiere of “Spy” in 2015.

The year 2024 was marked by significant development in the field of Moroccan cultural and creative industries in general, and the film industry in particular. The year 2024 recorded the highest revenues in 15 years, reaching 127 million and 645 thousand dirhams in revenue, and the number of viewers reached 2 million and 181 thousand viewers in cinemas. This is an important number that indicates the Moroccan public’s interest in cinemas, and it also confirms that the positive dynamics of the film sector during the last three years have begun to achieve its goals. Compared to previous years, the year 2023 recorded about 89 million dirhams in cinema revenues, compared to 77 million dirhams in 2023 and 33 million dirhams in 2021.

There is no doubt that Bruce Melodie is arguably one of Rwanda’s biggest music exports as he continues to raise his ranking on the international charts via collaborations with various music from across Africa and beyond. The ‘Samoya’ hit maker, signed to 1:55AM, departed Kigali on Sunday, February 2, for a private visit in Lagos, Nigeria, to which he has been traveling back-to-back as a result of strong ties he has built with his peers based in the Western African country which currently leads the music industry on the continent.

Rwandan music star The Ben is making headlines after releasing his new album Plenty Love—but it's not just the music that has people talking. The singer and his wife, Uwicyeza Pamella, are reportedly planning to welcome their first child in Canada, where The Ben is set to perform in February and March 2025. Sources reveal that The Ben and Pamella, currently in Tanzania, are preparing to travel to Canada, where they have already applied for permission to give birth. With Pamella’s due date expected around March 10, 2025, the couple sees this as an opportunity to combine The Ben’s tour schedule with their personal plans. In Rwandan culture, there’s a saying: "Hitting two birds with one stone." That seems to be exactly what The Ben is doing—continuing his music career while ensuring he is by his wife's side as they prepare to welcome their child in Canada.