Sungura ace Alick Macheso will kick off his 2025 showbiz calendar with a free bash at Rufaro Stadium in Harare on January 25. The event, coinciding with the launch of Swan Valley cigarettes, promises to be a music extravaganza featuring an array of top performers. Household names such as Winky D, Saintfloew, Kinnah, Nisha TS, Master H, Darula, and popular hyper man DJ Fantan, alongside his sidekick DJ Levels, will grace the stage. The event will run from 9 am to 10 pm. Three social soccer matches, celebrating both music and soccer, will also take place at the ceremonial home of football.

Tsumeb-born traditional and blues singer Sagarias Tsam, who relocated to Swakopmund in 2008, will be staging his first two opening shows of the new year at the coastal town this coming weekend. The acoustic guitar-strumming star will stage the first show at Sound Garden Restaurant and Beer Garden, which has been converted into a live music venue on Friday before he entertains his fans at The Place on Saturday night. Tsam is promising entertainment galore for his fans. “I have a few surprises in store for my loyal fans during my two shows. I have a new playlist and I will also play songs they have never heard before. These are my first two gigs for the new year and I promise entertainment galore,” he says.

The Namibia Film Commission (NFC) has appointed a new board, which says it will explore new ways to strengthen the infrastructure of the local film industry. The board, with film-maker and producer Esther Beukes as its chairperson, was appointed by minister of information and communication technology Emma Theofelus as of 1 December 2024. “I am both honoured and fully aware of the responsibility that comes with this appointment. As a board, we have been entrusted with the task of supporting the NFC in becoming an autonomous body – a significant step for the industry and one that requires careful stewardship,” Beukes says.

Speaking at the National Cinema Conference's opening ceremony at the Abdelatif-Rahal International Conference Center (CIC) in Algiers, the President of the Republic expressed hope that the conference would produce “results and recommendations that can restore Algerian cinema to its former glory.” He reassured industry professionals of state funding for their projects. Addressing the participants, President Tebboune declared: “Creativity is unrestricted — you have complete artistic freedom in your work, with the sole exception of anything that might undermine Algeria.” “The State stands ready to provide both land and financing to investors in this sector,” he continued, with a view to “fostering a cultural climate that promotes greater progress and development for our country.” The President of the Republic stressed that “our country has set out on a new path of development to achieve developed-nation status, with cultural advancement as the jewel in our crown.”

On January 15, 2025, The Waiter grossed an impressive N305.1 million, firmly establishing itself as one of Nollywood’s most successful releases. In its fourth week, the action-comedy raked in an additional N26.6 million, maintaining its momentum and staying strong amidst fierce competition. Released on December 20, 2024, The Waiter wasted no time capturing the audience's attention. The film crossed the N200 million milestone within its first two weeks, with total earnings hitting N218.6 million by early January. These numbers place it in the same league as other Nollywood blockbusters, including Toyin Abraham’s Alakada: Bad and Boujee, which premiered on the same day, and Everybody Loves Jenifa, the record-breaking hit that has grossed over N1.6 billion.

Africa Magic has announced an exciting lineup of shows for the year's first half. The broadcast company will premiere five new shows from January to March 2025, introducing innovative formats that span its channels and offer a variety of genres to its audience. Uriri Currently airing is Uriri, a 39-episode fantasy drama about a legendary warrior, Ogaga, who must confront his destiny and darkness while being haunted by the source of his strength. In his quest, a young maiden’s (Serome) fate becomes intertwined with his, making for a tale that oscillates between love, madness, and life. Uriri features Seun Ajayi, Frank Konwea, Osarehia Oronsaye, Bobby Ekpe, and more, with Xavier Ighorodje as showrunner and executive producer. The TV show airs on Africa Magic Showcase at 8:30 p.m. from Monday to Wednesday.

Nollywood actress Tonto Dikeh has sent out an appeal to Yoruba people on Instagram, begging them to use the English language while fighting on the app. Dropping the appeal via her Instagram story, the actress stressed the importance of her appeal, saying people on the app who do not understand Yoruba need to know who is winning their fights. She also got Ghanaians involved, saying they are as guilty as Yoruba people. She noted that not everyone on the app understands their language, therefore they need to be considerate while engaging in their fights. She wrote, “Dear Yoruba people, Abeg, when una dey try to fight (especially for this Obasanjo app), make una try dey fight with English. "How we want take know who dey win fight. "Ghana people una dey this Whatsapp group too. "Make una they fight with English. "All love from a vawulence prefect”. Tonto often uses social media to drop interesting takes on rather fascinating topics.

Nigerian rapper, Olanrewaju Ogunmefun, popularly known as Vector, has confirmed he is married and has been for the past three years. The ‘King Kong’ singer made the revelation during a recent interview appearance on TVC. Recall that in 2022, there were reports that the rapper secretly tied the knot with his partner, Yinka Coker Ogunmefun. Responding to a question on whether he’s married, Vector answered in the affirmative and insisted that his marriage is not hidden saying he takes exception to such description of his marriage. He explained that he and his partner elected to keep their private lives away from the public as they both are not fans of the media. He said, “Getting married is not everybody’s business. It’s between you and the person you’re getting married to.

Nollywood actress Annie Idibia has revealed a deeply personal and emotional chapter of her life on the reality series Young, Famous & African. In a heartfelt conversation during the show, Annie shared that she was pregnant with twins last year but tragically experienced a miscarriage. Fighting back tears, the actress recounted the emotional toll the loss took on her and her family. Annie admitted she had withheld the full details of her experience during her last appearance on the show, choosing now to open up about the heartbreaking ordeal. Despite being a mother, she described the period as one of immense pain and struggle. Her revelation has sparked an outpouring of empathy and support from fans and viewers, highlighting the strength it takes to share such a personal journey.

Nigerian singer Ahmed Ololade, famously known as Asake, has reportedly gifted himself a brand-new Tesla to celebrate his 30th birthday. On Sunday, January 19, 2025, the Grammy-nominated artist took to Instagram to unveil his impressive birthday present. The Lonely At The Top crooner, who turned 30 on January 13, shared a series of photos showcasing the sleek electric vehicle. The pictures captured Asake posing proudly with his new Tesla, as well as moments of him signing the paperwork for the luxury car. The post quickly garnered attention from fans and celebrities alike, who congratulated him on the milestone and his new acquisition. Asake continues to inspire with his music and achievements, marking yet another high point in his career and personal life. Asake accompanied the photos with a caption where he expressed his appreciation to Tesla Motors. He simply wrote:

Nigerian music superstar Davido was among the high-profile guests who graced the 38th birthday celebration of renowned celebrity blogger Tunde Ednut in Atlanta, USA. Tunde Ednut’s annual birthday celebrations are famed for their grandeur and carnival-like vibe, with friends and fans gathering globally to mark the occasion. This year’s event maintained the tradition, featuring multiple venues and generous donations from Tunde’s affluent friends and supporters. The Atlanta venue saw a packed house of celebrities and fans coming together to honor Tunde. Davido’s aide, Israel ‘DMW’ Afeare, shared glimpses of the festivities on Instagram, capturing moments with other notable figures like Dr. Sid and Jaywon. Attendees were treated to energetic performances, with Davido taking the spotlight to thrill the crowd. Dr. Sid also joined the stage for a memorable performance.

Doc Shebeleza was buried at Heroes Acre recently. The musician died on 9 January 2025, leaving a hole in SA's music industry. Doc Shebeleza's passing left South African fans distraught. Rasta The Artist showed up to do his signature portraits for icons who pass away. Doc Shebeleza gets Rasta portrait In a post shared by MDNnewss, Rasta showed off his portrait painting of the late Doc Shebeleza. The artist did his best to capture Doc's facial features in a painting where the Kwaito Legend wore a bright blue suit. See the pic below:

Ghanaian rapper Ayigbe Edem has expressed his disappointment in a statement made by entertainment pundit Kwaku Osei Korankye Asiedu, popularly known as KOKA. KOKA, in an initial discussion on Hitz FM on January 17, 2025, noted that the Minister-designate of Tourism, Culture, and Creative Arts, Dzifa Gomashie, is not the suitable person to occupy the role, citing a lack of expertise in managing the creative arts sector. However, in a social media post by rapper Ayigbe Edem on January 18, 2025, Edem described KOKA's statement as empty. Ayigbe Edem, who is also a staunch member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), noted that KOKA's speech is a long one with nothing relevant for Ghanaians to learn from. "A long speech with Nothing Said..." he said.

Ghanaian digital content creator Penny Pok, who is based in the United States of America, has set a new wedding trend with her stylish gowns for her multi-day wedding ceremony. The melanin beauty wore custom-made gowns made by famous Ghanaian and Nigerian fashion designers for her dream wedding in January 2025. Penny Pok rocks a white kente gown Ghanaian bride Penny Pok looked exquisite in a white corseted kente gown that snatched her waist for her traditional wedding ceremony.

Miracle Adomah, the wife of renowned Ghanaian broadcaster Kofi Adoma Nwanwani, has opened up about her husband's tragic shooting incident. In a recent video, Miracle, who is a queen mother, clarified that contrary to reports of her husband being attacked by assailants or affected by residue from gunpowder, he was actually shot in the eye. According to her, the incident happened in Dormaa during an event Kofi was invited to cover. She noted that her husband arrived safely at his destination and was welcomed and given a hotel to lodge by one Linda, who is the Dormahene's niece.

The main poster for Tara Emad and Omar El Shennawy Egyptian drama film "Le Awel Marra" has just dropped ahead of the film release on January 29th across Egyptian cinemas. The film follows Ghada and Khaled, a couple whose seemingly perfect love story is shattered when Khaled is given life altering news that he has contracted HIV. This ignites a night full of suspicion, violence, and mutual accusations of betrayal, revealing deep fissures in their relationship. Recently, the film held a packed world premiere at the 14th Luxor African Film Festival in the presence of its cast and crew with several notable personalities in attendance who praised the film, including internationally renowned film critic Tarek El Shenawy, as well as actors Ahmed Magdy and Dalia Mostafa, among others.

Acclaimed Egyptian singers Mai Farouk and Riham Abdel Hakim will perform a special concert on February 23 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the passing of the legendary Umm Kulthum. The event will take place at the Grand Egyptian Museum. The concert is a tribute to Umm Kulthum’s legacy, as her songs and melodious voice continue to resonate in the hearts of different generations. Mai Farouk and Riham Abdel Hakim will present a selection of Umm Kulthum’s most famous songs, which have become a significant part of Arab musical heritage, accompanied by an orchestra conducted by Maestro Tamer Faizi.

The Twisted Narrative | In the heart of the bustling Zimbabwean streets, where stories are currency and reputations are built or broken in whispers, a storm was brewing. Tawanda “Mubhanditi” Calaz, the dancehall king who reigned supreme in both rhythm and rhyme, found himself at the center of a cruel twist—a calculated distortion of his truth. For years, Calaz’s voice was a beacon for the streets, his flow like water cutting through the stone of struggle. People marveled at his ability to weave raw reality into music that resonated in every corner of the ghetto. But with greatness often comes envy, and there were those who sought to tear him down.

The Minister of Culture and Arts, Zouhir Ballalou highlighted on Sunday, in Algiers, the State’s role of in promoting the cultural landscape, affirming that the National Conference on Cinema provides an opportunity to assess the state of Algerian cinema and launch a new dynamic for film production and industry.

President Bola Tinubu has consoled renowned Fuji musician, Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, popularly known as K1 De Ultimate, over the death of his mother, Alhaja Alimotu Shadiya Anifowoshe. K1 announced the passing of his mother in a post on his official Instagram page on Saturday, January 18, 2025. The post, which featured a photo of K1 with his late mother was accompanied by the caption expressing K1's deep sorrow over the development. He acknowledged the immense influence his mother had on his life and long and successful career. “With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of King Wasiu Ayinde’s beloved mother. May her soul rest in peace, Alhaja Alimotu Shadiya Omoakeredolu Aya Anifowoshe. Iya rere. Sun re oo,” he wrote. In a separate post, the Fuji icon shared a video of his telephone conversation with the President writing, “The President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria called to commiserate with the King of Fuji Music.”

Minnie Dlamini has been divorced from her former husband, Quinten Jones, for years. Many South Africans have been eager to see whether the media personality would find love again. A post on X showed her videos with images of Minnie Dlamini and a man reportedly named Dr Brian Monaisa. Based on the images, people speculated about the actress's relationship status. Minnie Dlamini linked to Dr Brian Monaisa In a post shared by @MDNnewss, Minnie looked like she had a close relationship with a man allegedly named Dr Brian Monaisa. The clip showed pictures and videos of the two on presumable dates and a picnic. Watch the video below:

Mike Kirenga, also known as Khire, is carving his path in Afrobeat music. His musical journey began in church halls, where gospel harmonies first piqued his interest. Guided by his mother, a Sunday school teacher and choir leader, Khire discovered his early love for music in this setting. Born on November 17, 2001, as the eldest of five siblings, Khire joined the church choir at eight years old, setting the stage for his future in music. Though he began pursuing music professionally two years ago, Khire's connection to music spans over a decade. "Music has been part of my life since childhood," he reflects.

Ghanaian broadcaster Serwaa Amihere has opened up about the challenges she faced following the circulation of an intimate video purportedly involving her last year. Speaking recently at the Ignite Youth Empowerment Thanksgiving Service, Serwaa shared a heartfelt account of how the incident impacted her and how a kind gesture from her close friend, Obuobia Darko-Opoku, helped her through a dark period. In a candid moment during the event, Serwaa reflected on her struggle with depression at the time. “I was depressed and crying at home that day,” she revealed. “Then she came and said, ‘Let’s go and buy ice cream.’ I wasn’t talking to anyone, but she came to pick me up. She took me to Osu, and I remember trying to wear a cap. She asked, ‘Why? Why do you want to hide your face? Let’s go.’ She bought me a big cup of ice cream and said, ‘Today, eat all the ice cream you can.’”

On Thursday, January 16, 2025, the presiding judge granted the order after the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) filed an ex parte motion for his arrest. Bilikisu Buhari, representing the EFCC in court, cited legal provisions under Section 35(1)(c) of the 1999 Constitution and Sections 35, 36, 37, 38, and 39 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, 2015, to support the application. The EFCC stated that they received a petition from the singer against her former manager after she accused him of receiving royalties from her digital platforms and events without informing her of the transactions. They also stated that the manager allegedly diverted about $345,000 without allocating the singer her share of the funds. They added that if the manager cannot be apprehended, the EFCC would resort to a public summons to declare him wanted. The court has adjourned the case until January 24 for arraignment of the manager.