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Images from the Chale Wote Street Art Festival.

Jamestown, Ga Mashie. Sat 14.

Contents Trends | 10 Spectrum | 25 Bentsifi Bentsifi ACVB Media P. O. Box 3399, Accra 1 Kade Close Kanda Estates Tel: 0244 697046 Email: bentsifi@gmail.com

Events | 8 Shops & Services | 28 Eating Out | 32

EDITORIAL Editor PaJohn Dadson Editorial Assistant Zara Abbey

Night Life | 29

STUDIO Art Direction Bentsifi Graphic Designer Oduro Assiamah Photography Francis Kokoroko, Kwaku Gyabaa, Rodney Quarcoo Steve Ababio, Steven Adusei, Barrack El Mahmoud Emmanuel Bobbie

Escape | 32 Getting Around | 34 Directory | 35

Marketing Rhoda Acquah

Publisher Bentsifi ACVB Media

Cover Photo Barrack El Mahmoud

GhC5 where sold.

The views expressed in the articles published are not necessarily those of Bentsifi-ACVB. While every reasonable care has been taken in compiling the magazine, the publisher shall not be held liable for any omission, error or inaccuracy. Please notify the publisher in writing of any omission, error or inaccuracy. Editorial contributions are welcome, but unsolicited materials are submitted at the sender’s risk. The publisher cannot accept any responsibility for loss or damage. All rights reserved by Bentsifi-ACVB. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without the publisher’s permission in writing. Bentsifi is distributed for sale through selected major newsstands in Accra. It is also control-circulated to major hotels.

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BULLETIN

FirstWord Akwaaba, Miawoezor, Welcome to Accra, Africa’s cultural city!

For us here in Accra, Easter is a big deal. The many Churches in the capital embark on outdoor gathering called Conventions where all the satillite groups converge at one large outdoor venue for prayer sessions so while driving around town during the Easter weekend, you are likely to see some of these gathering.

Many also get out of town to their hometown to be with family, and others yet just want to get out of Accra to the quieter hinterland. Whatever you choose to do, this Easter month brings many special events.

For five years running the Ghana Paragliding Festival pulls a lot of visitors to the Kwuhu Ridge area where it takes place. That is also where the biggest Easter celebrations take place. See our preview on page 24.

The 13th edition of the Vodafone Ghana Music Awards, the biggest night for GH music comes off at the Dome on the 14. It is a night to celebrate Ghanaian music and musicians and comes complete with Red Carpet and much razzle-dazzle.

A new festival recently started, Chale Wote Street Art festival, comesoff again this year in the Jamestown area.

It is activity packed and is quite exciting to see.

The Silverbird Cinema continues to exhibit latest flicks from Hollywood, as well as from Nollywood and some local brews too! altogether, the capital holds its own in the month of April and brings a lot of fun and cheer too.

Remember, this season records some of the highest motor accidents in the country, so drive carefully and be safe.

Enjoy,

Editor

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Domestic Air Travel Sees Increased Patronage Patronage of domestic airlines has shot up, Doreen Owusu-Fianko, Managing Director of the Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL) has said.

Domestic airlines, she says, are doing incredibly well as a result of improved management structures and the continual training of staff.

City Link and Antrak Air currently lead the list of airline operators that were doing very well with their frequent flights from the Kotoka International Airport to other parts of the country.

From November to December 2011, patronage of domestic flights in Ghana shot up to 12,000 and it is on record that January witnessed high support.

The MD continued that the Accra-Kumasi route was making an average of 4,000 passengers but presently, it had 12 flights a day.

“Tamale, as well, used to have only one flight a day but now there are two flights to Tamale every day,” she noted.

Mrs Owusu-Fianko says there is a new airline which is expected to be ready before the end of this year.

Passengers used to complain about the exorbitant fares charged by the two airlines but Mrs Owusu-Fianko pointed out that currently fares had been reduced.

“There is no major problem with the operations of the domestic airlines, hence the increase in the patronage.”

Mrs Owusu-Fianko, commenting on the country’s international airports, reiterated that apart from the proposed Tamale airport, the Kumasi’s international airport had been confirmed.

She noted that every regional capital, by their plan, was supposed to have an airport.

She said plans were far advanced for Takoradi to get a new airport, which was expected to be for intercontinental flights.

This April

Afro Chique You know the music; Old School

Come dance in your African print outfit 10pm. Golden Tulip Hotel The Tulip Mirror Ball takes place every last Friday of the Month

for rent Two 2-bedroom apartments for rent at Abelenkpe, near Lincoln school.

Each apartment has an en suite master bedroom, bathroom for 2nd bedroom, modern kitchen, hall and dining hall. Spacious compound, a lawn on each side.

Can be used as office/residence.

contact Ms Adwowa 0264120303 to view. Week days only, 8am - 9am and 3pm - 3:30pm upon request.

. live stressless .

Opik

wholesome beauty . wellness .

NYANIBA ESTATES

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We can’t go through this month without... ...acquiring one of these stylish Trashy Bag holdalls, made from recycled plastic water wrappers collected from the streets right here in Accra! Must do my bit to help save the environment!

...going for some homemade food gourmet stlye from Cuppa

Cuppacino - yep! - they serve these too! the culinary team there are just super!

...taking my pair of binoculars and telescope, and taking it along to view and celebrate Stars, Planets and Moons during Global Astronomy Month (GAM) this April at the Ghana Planetarium behind Police Headquarters in Cantonments every Saturday! The program as follows; 7 – Global Astronomy Month kick-off! Learn about the night sky with telescope viewing! 14 – “Yuri’s Night”, a celebration of space travel and rockets!

21 – Saturn Watch – Learn and Look at the “Lord of the Rings”!

28 Global Star Party!

...strolling the grounds of the Nyabina Park come Sat 8 when the monthly Stock Exchange - a Flea Market - comes off... Here’s where to get, among other things, scented candles, beautiful craft items and also powdered Dawadawa! Add this to soup and stews and taste the difference!

...going to see this clown entertain the audience at the Italian National Circus Il Florilegio which is drawing families and just about everybody to their shows which is on till April 22. It is at the Efua Sutherland Children’s Park.

...taking a course in Twi to improve my knowledge of the local language at the Goethe-Institut which is offering Twi Classes for Non-Twi speakers.

The courses are focused on communication and which within a short period can help me listen to radio programs discuss with your Ghanaian colleagues, neighbours & friends in Twi.

...getting me a Lokko08 T-shirt: the ‘Original Acc’ urban tees which come with many messages; like this one!

...attending Dela Botri’s new album launch at the Alliance Francaise on Fri 20.

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Events

Events

FILM Thurs 5, 7pm “The Amount of Small Things (Der Die Das)” by Sophie Narr, 92 min. 2008. A moving journey back to childhood, this documentary looks at the everyday life of four first graders in Germany from different countries, struggling to fit in.

Goethe-Institut

Station, through the streets of James Town for an action-packed program of activities including Acrylic Street Painting, Inside the Moskito Net (dance installation), Spoken Word by Ehalakasa Talk Party, a soup kitchen to feed community children, a Fashion Circus by The WEB (Young Designer’s Hub), and many more. James Town

Sat 14, 7pm Africa in Motion - Award Ceremony (for Short Film Competition “African Kiss”) African Information Movement Germany (AIM.Deutschland) in cooperation with AIM.Ghana organized a short film competition last year for young engaged Ghanaian filmmakers under the theme “African Kiss.” At this awards show, six of the short films will be screened and the three winners will be awarded prizes up to 1500Ghc. Goethe-Institut

Sat 14 – Sun 15 Accra Photo Festival Themed “Ghana on the Rise,” this event will showcase positive images of Ghana with the goal of selling photographs and photo books to raise funds for the provision of Ghanaian hospitals with the framed images that will instil hope in patients. Mövenpick Ambassador Hotel

Thurs 19, 7pm “Herr Zwilling und Frau Zuckermann” (Documentary) by Volker Koepp, 127 min., 1999 This poignant, award-winning German film chronicles the lives of Herr (Mr.) Zwilling and Frau (Mrs.) Zuckermann, the only two living survivors of the Holocaust in today’s Chernowitz, a medium size city now in the Ukraine. One of the most interesting aspects is that the German language is what bonds Herr Zwilling and Frau Zuckermann. Goethe-Institut ART Thurs 5 – Wed 11 Art exhibition: Nicholas Kowalski The versatile Polish-Ghanaian artist’s unique abstract works and dazzling textural paintings, which have been seen and sold across Europe, Africa, Canada, and the United States, will be exhibited. lisa Hotel Fri 13, 7pm Mondial Cabaret - Circus Show More than just an artistic project, Christoph Glockner and Olivier Denizet, hailing all the way from France, use the traditions of the popular cabaret, which involves music, dance, magic, comedy and alternative circus, and fuse them with contemporary world reality.

Alliance Française Sat 14, 10am – 11pm Chale Wote Street Art Festival Following the success of the first edition of the flamboyant urban art celebration last year, a second festival comes your way under the theme, “outer-space” exploration. Join the Festival on a mission into a universe of unlimited imagination installed by the Ghana Space

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Sat 21 thru .... 6pm. ‘Malaria: Blood, Sweat and Tears’. A photo exhibition dipicting the global impact of malaria. Part of World Malaria Day. National Museum Sat 21 to Sun Jul 1 [Opening 21 April at 4pm] Kofi Setordji One of the rare occasions to see the diverse talents of one of Ghana’s foremost artists, Kofi Setordji, in this solo exhibition. Works on show are on a variety of media - photography, prints, painting, sculpture, ceramics and part installations. Exhibition will commence with Kofi in conversation with Dr. Agyeman Ossei at 4pm. Kofi will be available to talk with students and art patrons and enthusiasts for the duration of the exhibition. Nubuke Foundation, East Legon.

KIDS Daily [except Mon] thru Sun 22, 6pm. Il Floriilegio Circus The circus that is thrilling audiences. Fascinating stuff. three shows on martinee Sat at 3pm, 6pm and 8pm. A real family day out. Efua Sutherland Children’s Park Every Mon - Thurs 3pm-4pm. Nu Reading Club Children are welcome to our drop-in reading sessions with a choice of books to read from our well stocked library.

Nubuke Foundation, East Legon.

Wed 11 - Fri 27, 9:30am - noon. Vacation Tennis Club. Get the low down on grips, forehand, backhand, serve, return of service, footwook and net play from experienced instructors! Barclays Club House, Ringway Estates.

MUSIC Sat 7, 7pm Moonsplash Reggae Concert Come and enjoy the new reggae genre

described as “True Ghanaian Reggae,” with Blakk Rasta and other roots reggae artists on a full moon! Goethe-Institut Sat 14 Vodafone Ghana Music Awards Full of dazzle, it’s music most thrilling night.

The biggest yearly music festival in the country will come off this month, as eagerly awaited, with the promise of new categories, more pomp and extra excitement.

The Dome – Accra International Conference Centre

Sat 14 – Sun 15 accraexpat Private Tandem Paragliding Week-end accraexpat.com is offering its community private access to the flying area. Participants are assured of features like flight sequence numbers to avoid delays and give everyone a chance to fly. Kwahu Ridge Sat 14 “Yuri’s Night” Part of Global Astronomy Month (GAM), a celebration of space travel and rockets!

Sun 15 Inspirational Praise 2012 The annual music festival is themed “Yi Naye” (Praise Him), and will bring the youthful population to the knowledge of God through gospel music. It aims to unravel the mystery behind true worship, and also to appreciate the relevance of music in life’s endeavours. National Theatre

Sat 21 Saturn Watch Part of Global Astronomy Month (GAM). Learn and Look at the “Lord of the Rings”!

CULTURAL EVENTS Community Tues 3, 12:30pm NAWA Let’s Do Lunch Come join the conversation over a nice lunch. Members of the North American Women’s Association, as well as newcomers are welcome. Au Grand Ecuyer

RECREATION Sat 7 – Mon 9 Ghana Hang Gliding & Paragliding Festival This festival has become a must during the Easter celebrations in Ghana. It boasts highly qualified pilots and consistent flying conditions starting around mid-morning until late in the day. There will be the usual spectacular aerial fun, ceremony and music. Kwahu Ridge

Wed 4, 6:30pm Story telling: Quand Les Tigres Fumaient La Pipe + Reve De France (When the Tigers smoked the pipe + Dreams of France) An amazing and eclectic show which will give you a tour around the world, from Mali to Estonia without leaving your seat! Stories in origami, sets of strings, gestural language and other well spiced languages. Alliance Française Thurs 5, 7pm – 10pm International Night The monthly occasion brings together diplomats and Canadians to socialise and have a good time. Drinks and burgers are sold on deck. High Commission of Canada Fri 6 – Sun 8 Hash Easter Week-end Run Fun times at a cozy beach resort just beyond Winneba promising spicy pork sausage! Children and dogs are welcome.

Rooms are available at GHC 20-30, depending on size of room. Hosted by the Hash House Harriers.

Sat 7 Global Astronomy Month April is Global Astronomy Month (GAM)! kick-off! Learn about the night sky with telescope viewing!

Sat 28 Global Star Party Part of Global Astronomy Month (GAM),if you have a pair of binoculars or telescope, bring it along and join with us to view and celebrate Stars, Planets and Moons!

Mon 2, 5:15pm Next Week’s Miracle: Run 1612 The Hash House Harriers say this is a Chop Night, so unless you like sitting on mud, bring a chair or someone soft to sit on! Back of the Polo Club MEETINGS/WORKSHOPS Sun 1, 12pm The Practical HR Managers/ Personnel Training Utilising practical exercises and scenarios, workbooks and group work, this programme will take participants through a variety of HR topics and trends, from Personnel Data Management to Rewards and Recognition. Alisa Hotel Tues 3 - Wed 4, 9am 10th Africa Investment Forum (2012) This event organised by the Commonwealth Business Council will focus on partnerships with ECOWAS to mobilise investment in the sub-region. Accra International Conference Centre Sat 7, 10am – 2pm Moonsplash Reggae Workshop The Blakk Rasta reggae workshop will research sounds and instruments to be used to create Moonsplash Reggae, a new African Reggae sound, and set the stage for the first Moonsplash Reggae

Concert later in the evening. GoetheInstitut Tues 10, 7pm Booming Agricultural Markets: Opportunity or Threat for Africa’s Smallscale Farmers? Prof. Dr. Theo Rauch will open the casual series of expert talks with a lecture on the theme.

It will include discussions with Ghanaian partners on a crucial focal point of GermanGhanaian bilateral relations - Development cooperation. Entrance is free.

Goethe-Institut Tues 10 – Fri 13 5th International School Social Work Conference The event will provide participants, including social workers and other stakeholders with an opportunity to exchange ideas on efforts to ensure quality education for all the world’s children.

Accra International Conference Centre Thurs 12, 6:30pm NAWA monthly meeting The North American Women’s Association will be having their monthly meeting to discuss interesting pertinent issues. Coconut Grove Hotel Sat 14 – Sun 15 Studio Kurtycz weekend art workshop Dubbed “Printing Artist Books”, participants will learn about the different uses of printmaking techniques on books and use some of those techniques to produce a book, integrating text and images. Studio Kurtycz Mon 16 – Wed 18, 8:30am – 4:30pm Value-Added Procurement, Negotiations & SRM Salvo Global’s 3-day comprehensive Masterclass will explore the latest methodologies and practices to enable your organization to move from simply a reactive, tactical (cost centre) department to a value-add, strategic (profit centre) function. Accra Mon 16, 7pm Architecture in Accra Lecture Series with Nat Nuno-Amarteifio – Part I To understand traditional architectural styles, this first lecture will examine the use of materials and the process of construction. Indigenous use of space will be explored as well as the domestic architecture and workshops of Accra dwelling slave traders. Goethe-Institut EXPO Wed 4 - Thurs 5, 12pm Solar West Africa The exhibition/forum will provide

the ideal environment for industry experts, investors and key governmental organisations to forge business contacts and open up new market potential. La Palm Royal Beach Hotel Mon 16 – Sat 21, 9am-5pm Ghana Policy Fair On the theme “Building Together in a Better Ghana” all Ministries, Departments and Agencies as well as Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies in Greater Accra Region would be brought together under one roof to provide a onestop access to the general public providing an avenue for people to interact freely with Ministers of State, Chief Executive Officers of public institutions as well as Chief Directors, Directors and other senior members of these institutions, to offer suggestions, seek information, clarify policy issues and better understand policy and projects initiatives. Accra International Conference Centre.

Entries into The Critical List You are welcome to send information on your event to us for publication. Please ensure it reaches us by the 15th of the preceeding month of the date of your event.

The editor reserves to right to .... Please send all information to bentsifi@ gmail.com and we will be happy to publish it for you. Please call 0244 697046 if you would like to be featured in ....

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Trends

Fante Fashion Set the Pace The evolution of the kaba and slit, our traditional wraparound skirt and matching tailored blouse has come a long way, hasn’t it?

It is said to have begun at the turn of the last century, and the word is that, King Ghartey IV (1820-1897) of Winneba and a president of the Fante Confederation introduced the covershoulder dress, known as the ‘kabasroto’ or ‘kaba’ as we call it now.

It was an imitation of the European blouse, to clothe the then semi-nudity that was customary among women folk of those times.

He began the experiment with his maid servants and the members of the ‘Band of Hope’ at Anomabo, among a section of the then Christian community.

It soon spread like a rash, leading to what it is today.

Kwaku Darko Ankrah

Fashionable Fante Tarkwa women (circa 1910).

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Capital Delights We bring you some dining highlights this month

Thurs 7pm Live Jazz Band & Aperritivo Unwind to the sounds of Jazz while enjoying a delicious selection of canapes coupled with aperitifs.

Movenpick

destination management leisure . hospitality . events public relations

0244.69.7046

Sun 11am Champagne Brunch A lavish beffet spread experience with chilled Champus!

Sankofa Restaurant , Movenpick 23 - 30 Spicy Culinary Expereince Gastronomic! Sample an eclectic array of flavours from all over the globe; all with hot spicy flair.

Sankofa Restaurant , Movenpick

There are many culinary delights during the Easter celebrations at most hotel including Golden Tulip Hotel, Labadi Beach Hotel, La Palm Royal Beach Hotel, Holiday Inn, Novotel Accra City, African Regent Hotel, Best Western Hotel.

Have a great Easter Holidays!

For Spintex resident Kofi Tsikata who works as the Direct or of Communications at the World Ba na Office - he’ll always ch nk Ghaoose as his place of abode. If fo Accra at all, it is because of the r nothing follo deems as treats; 1. the wa wing he akye from the stall near the Stanch art Bank in his locality on Spintex Ro ad.

2. The kenkey and Domedo [grilled pork] from th e big woman [front, middle st all] at the Osu Night Market, wh ich Kofi says is “the best spot to get the delicacy in the wh ole wide world!”

3. Fufu and goat light so up from Bes Stop Asanka on Ring Road Central and las t but not least, 4. the Koliko joint at Labone Junction.

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Culture: Our Life – Culture We Dey Chop!

The Official Launch of the

Ghana Culture Forum

At last, a day, whose purpose is to promote our national culture, arts, and academic successes, and a celebration of our heritage came to pass.

March 14, marked that day when the Ghana Culture Forum, a membership based civil society consultative and advocacy network

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of cultural practitioners & activists and organisations, in partnership with the Ministry of Chieftaincy and Culture, launched the Forum and showcased a kaleidoscope of Ghanaian cultural interaction and expressions at the National Theatre in Accra.

Held under the theme ‘Culture – Our Life! Culture We dey Chop!’, it was marked with an emporium - a courtyard of cultural interaction and expressions as displayed in the photos on these pages.

It climaxed with the formal launch performed by the Minister of Local Gov’t & Rural Dev. Mr Ofosu Ampofo [top left], who stood in place of His Excellency the Vice President of the Republic of Ghana.

The Chair for the occasion was Nana Atiburukusu of Axim & Chair of the Western Regional House of Chiefs [top]. Guest of Honour was Prof Kofi Anyidohu [left, centre] of the Uni. of Ghana. Ms Moji Okuribido [left] of UNESCO who helped facilitate the event also spoke. Other dignitories included the Minister of Tourism, Culture and key Cultural activists.

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2012 ‘Quinzaine de la Francophonie’ Events

Ghanaian flutist Dela Botri alongside Malian balafon legend Kélétigui Diabaté and the ngoni sensation Barou Kouyate, last week enchanted a cheering audience in Accra with a cool fusion of Mandingue music with highlife, salsa and jazz.

In a compelling performance backed by Hewale Sounds, the outdoor theater at the Alliance Française reverberated with rhythms and sounds that revealed the power and beauty of cross cultural collaborations as well as the strength of improvisations.

Stimulating rhythms from the atenteben flute, which was in tune with the Malian balafon/ ngoni sent the crowd on a mute journey as the Ghanaian xylophone, shakers, bells and kpanlogo/gome drums calmly blended in a musical voyage that could sow the seeds of a full blown innovative creation.

The amazing balafon master, who is well known for his recent work with Habib Koité and guest artistes such as Toumani Diabaté, Djelymadi Tounkara, Fassery Diabaté,

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Ghana’s Minister of Foreign Affairs makes his speech during the opening with the French Ambassador looking on (right), and Mali’s Diabaté shares a stage with Ghana’s Dela Botri (above)

The Festival opened at the Alliance Francaise in Accra on Fri, March 16 by the Ghanaian Minister of Foreign Affairs.

Story John Owoo Photos John Owoo/Nana Khophy d’Addo-Wiafe Diawoye Diarra and Bamada appeared to be having real fun as his hand moved meticulously on the balafon, which he has played for over five decades.

Kélétigui’s unique style, which was influenced by a chance meeting with Ella Fitzgerald and other jazz greats, is characterized by a wider range of flexibility on the balafon thereby enabling Botri to effortlessly move in and out of his compositions.

Kouyate, who is noted for his deft playing of the ngoni (a stringed lute instrument), captivated the audience with an impeccable performance through the richness and diversity of notes and sounds that emanated from his ngoni filled the stage.

An apostle of collaborations, Botri equally proved the capabilities of the atenteben flute as he constantly shifted from rhythm to rhythm and note to note with a remarkable pace

while engaging and involving the crowd in the performance.

The performance formed part of several programmes marking the 2012 edition of ‘Quinzaine de la Francophonie’, which is organized by member countries of La Francophonie represented ihere n Ghana.

CFAO Motors, Total, AGS, Frasers International, Bollore, Novotel, Allianz, LouisDreyfus, Golden Exotics, Societe Generale and Marquis Tante Marie sponsored the festival.

Other performances and events included French musician Erwann Bouvier (left), who moved to Burkina Faso in 2007, showcasing his dramatic blend of French and traditional African rhythms through a creative use of the accordian, djembes, xylophone and tamas.

Also, an exhibition of paintings

by Kassy (Cote d’Ivoire), Samuel Tete Katchan, Edem Gota, Yao Sewonou (Togo) and Salifou Oura (Burkina Faso).

A discussion with members of the Foundation for Contemporary Art in Ghana on the topic ‘Naive Art’.

Courtesy of the Lebanese

Embassy and Canadian High Comm, two films. Ghanaian song diva Bibie Brew performed a magnificent concert in the format of the newly-designed La Pailotte Takpekpe.

There was also a Forum on Francophone Studies and Trade aimed at promoting French/Francophone studies and trade.

The 2012 Miss Alliance pageant was also organised as part of the festival where Miss Edith Kouame emerged as winner (above)

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Il Florilegio

Dancing lights tigers, capture the Circus that’s the imagsupple acrogot Accra thrilled ination bats, of both a blind young folded tight-rope and old people for walker, funny two solid hours at clowns, jugglers, the circus which is half naked dancing running through girls, flying tratill Sun 22. Warnpeze acrobats as ing - it is highly well as pyroflash entertaining!

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onths of work preparing for this year’s Vodafone Ghana Music Awards culminates in two big nights this month with the Industry Awards night on Monday 9 at the International Ceonference Centre lobby where those working in the industry will be presented with their awards, and then the big one on Sat 14 where the Red Carpet will be rolled for the stars! It’s Ghana music’s biggest night, and you want to be a part of it! This page shows photos of the launch of the Awards a month ago at the Golden Tulip Hotel.

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...all for the Love of Music....

This year, as has been the trend for the festival, the event drew a gargantuan crowd when it held Nominee Jams in both Kumasi and Takoradi.

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Courtesy the Ghana Denmark Cultural Fund, the wanning popularity of the Jama musical genre was rekindled in the Ga Mashie community

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The final event took place on Mon Jan 30.

Like the four preliminary ones before, the venue, Bukom Square in the heart of Jamestown in Ga Mashie got packed early, and

and Planet came 3rd and 4th respectively, and they all received trophies along with their cash prizes. The remaining two also received cash prizes.

The enthusiasm and

for the folkloric music genre called Jama.

With assistance from the Ga Mashie Development Agency (GAMADA), all the main Jama groups within the commu-

by the time the Brass Band arrived for the competition proper to commence by 4pm, there was already a lot of dancing to music provided by the DJ. Six groups participated, and from the look of things all of them had prepared well for the final. They made efforts with their costume, stage craft and lyrics, which were the main criteria for judging.

At the end of the day, Lucky “7” came tops, followed by Sonkpakpa. Hunter “6”

participation of the audience showed in their cheering. The groups also expressed having gained satisfaction from taking part in the events and hoped it could continue.

The events had a festive atmosphere around it, and brought the community together in a happy cheer-sporting bash.

Created and organised

by Bentsifi, with funding from the Ghana Danish Culture fund [GDCF] it was hosted in an attempt to establish a periodic event

nity (Jamestown and Chorkor) were invited to participate and in the end, from sixteen groups, the six made it to the final after four months of competition.

Judges for the events included Mr Nii Teiko Tagoe of GAMADA in Jamestown, Nii Korley Laryea, a Journalist and Mr Sammy a Community Leader from Chorkor.

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SPECTRUM

In five short years, the Ghana Paragliding Festival has become an integral part of the annual Easter celebrations, which is one of the most popular holidays in many regions throughout the country.

The festival attracts both Ghanaians and foreigners alike for more than 3 days of spectacular aerial fun, ceremony and music.

It takes place in the Kwahu ridge in the Eastern region. All roads lead there come the Easter weekend.

Decades-long search for an effective, commercially viable vaccine against malaria has yet to produce its desired results. Though major pharmaceutical companies have been working towards this goal, limited funding has, until recently, severely hampered efforts.

Touring the world to highlight this, a photo-

The mosquito kills more humans than any other creature in the world.

Ghana Paragliding Festival 6-9 April. Kwahu Ridge “Malaria: Blood Sweat and Tears” A photo exhibition is on at the National Museum from April 21 thru May 21

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tive malaria treatments, long-lasting insecticide mosquito nets and spraying the inside of dwellings with insecticide. However, although almost US$2 billion is available to tackle malaria - it falls short of the approximate US$5 billion required annually to achieve Universal Coverage with all prevention and treatment tools.

exhibition entitled “Malaria: Blood Sweat and Tears” set to run free at the National Museum of Ghana, No. 2 Barnes Road, Accra from the 21 thru May 21 will depict images from across the globe illustrating the complex relationships between malaria, poverty and the need for international support for combating the disease on a grand scale.

It will showcase more than 40 images by internationally acclaimed photographer Adam Nadel who brings to life the personal stories of malaria sufferers and malaria experts from all over the world.

The collection provides information on all aspects of malaria - from the history to the science - and captures the new positive outlook as a result of recent progress made in reducing malaria deaths in some African countries by over 50%.

The illness kills more than 860,000 people a year - mainly women and children. Half of the world’s population - some 3.3 billion people in 109 countries - is at risk of malaria. Africa bears the greatest burden - with 90% of all deaths occurring in 44 countries south of the Sahara. Since 2003 funding for malaria control has reached unprecedented levels, enabling countries to scale up the distribution of effec-

Produced and conceived by the United Kingdom-based Malaria Consortium, the world’s leading non-profit organization dedicated to comprehensive control of malaria, and photographer Adam Nadel, the exhibition has been made possible with the generous support of Vestergaard Frandsen, a European-based company specializing in complex emergency response and disease-control products, including the PermaNet® long-lasting insecticidal net and net curtains to prevent vector-borne diseases like malaria. It was produced under the umbrella of the Roll Back Malaria Partnership, which is the global framework for coordinated action against malaria.

Following a special preview on the 20, the exhibition will be open to the general public from 21, with free entry made possible by the generosity of local sponsor Airtel Ghana. Visitors will also have the opportunity to view winning photographs from a photo-essay competition among local school children from ten Basic Schools in the Accra metropolis on what malaria means to them.

Photos by Adam Nadel

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Heritage

The Aboakyir Festival of the Simpa People Celebrated every 1st Saturday in May the Aboakyre festival is commemmorated to mark the migration of the Simpa people from the ancient Western Sudan Empire from where they were led by 2 brothers and a god called Otu. It is a time for much revelry in the town called Winneba, and each year thousands throng there for great fun...

Two Asafo Companies (warrior groups) in Winneba take part in a hunting expedition. The first troop to catch a live bushbuck - an animal from the antelop family - from a game reserve used for this purpose and present it to the chiefs and people at a colorful durbar is declared winner and is highly regarded for bravery.The bushbuck is sacrificed and this signifies the start of the Aboakyer festival which is also used to receive a productive harvest and spiritual guidance from their gods for the coming year.

The name ‘‘Aboakyir’’ translates as ‘hunting for game or animal’ in the Akan Fante dialect as spoken by the people of the Central region.

Characteried by a large durbur, various chiefs sit in state accompanied by a number of ceremonial guards.

According to oral history, when the tribe eventually settled in what is now Winneba, they moved to celebrate their arrival. Thier priest, thus, instructed them to sacrifice a young member of the royal family in honour of the gods. This didn’t go down too well with the people, as they feared it could eventually wipe out the royals, so following an appeal to the local deity, this was replaced first by a wild cat and now, a wild antelope, as

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many people died in pursuit of capturing the cat.

The festival creates an exceptionally competitive atmosphere as the groups compete to be the first to capture the antelope and

return to the durbar, or gathering of elders. Praise singers dress in various costumes, the mood is jubilant, though many have been waiting since before dawn for their 10-minute performance. Just before midday, the flag-bearers of the first group enter the stadium to enthusiastic applause.

When they finally arrive, the champion of the Tuafo Asafo group carries the live antelope across his shoulders. His group will present the deer to an elder who places his foot on the animal as a sign of acceptence

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Night Life

Shops & Services

Our pick of the capital’s hottest night spots.

Looking For…?

Supermarkets Max Mart A&C Mall & near 37 Station Three floors of supermarket stocking groceries, crockery, a bakery, confectionaries, florist, ‘winery’, office and home appliances among others Shoprite Accra Mall and Kasoa One of Africa’s largest food retailers, stocks a wide selection of foods, confectionaries, bakes, drinkables and every other thing you are looking for, They promise less cost.

Koala Supermarket Osu, Danquah Circle Accra, Koala has a vast range of international goods including foodstuff, cookware, electronics, bakery, glassware, confectionaries and other items you may need, all åat this international supermarket.

Department Stores Game Accra Mall.

Find household ware, garden ensemble, electronics, sporting equipment, children’s items and all you’ll want from a large and comprehensive department store with promos and discount sales every week!

Shopping Centers Accra Mall Tetteh Quarshie Roundabout Real mall concept – Accra’s Largest – with international brands such as Game, Apple, Shoprite, Puma etc housed here. Also a convergence hub, find Silverbird cinema, and a myriad of eateries, activities etc.

A&C Mall East Legon Houses many stocked lifestyle stores, restaurants, cafes, a gym, pharmacies, supermarkets, a swimming pool and secure kids’ playground.

Palace Shopping Mall Spintex

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Road In the same premises as Furniture City, a hypermarket that stocks a wide variety of household stuff including electronics, crockery, gym equipment and many more.

Melcolm Plus Complex North Ind Area Popular retailing centre with 3 floors of affordable household items, and space for outlets such as a dental practice, bookshops, cafes and a host of others.

Orca Graphic Road For contemporary and stylish interior décor ware, here’s where to go. A large double floor of everything from curtains materials to cooking utensils to gym equipment to furniture to children’s toys!

Accra’s club scene is hip, and has a lot of atmosphere, even on a regular night. This month, catch the fire at these joints that keeps the city awake most nights.

CAPITAL’S CLUBS Aphrodisiac Capital’s Banging club . North Dzorwulu Bella Roma Hippest club in town. Osu Millonaires Hot DJs. Citizen Kofi Excel For an exclusive crowd. Airport Residential Grand Pappaz Swankiest joint in town Cantonments Rockstone’s Office Simply hip. Cantonments Boomerang Hottest club in town. Caprice Roxbury’s Hottest club in Asylum Down Jokers Happiest club in town. La Opps! For the mature crowd. Bubiashie Roundabout Scratch Mature club often with live music. East Legon Cave Lounge For a mature audience. Kuku Hill, Osu

Entries into The Critical List You are welcome to send information on your event to us for publication. Please ensure it reaches us by the 15th of the preceeding month of the date of your event.

The editor reserves to right to publish any entry.

Please send all information to bentsifi@gmail.com and we will be happy to publish it for you. Please call 0244 697046 if you would like to be featured in.

Ghana’s premiere Jazz & Live Music joint Mon - Thu 5pm - 2:33 am Fri: 5pm - 4am Sat - Sun: 2:33pm - 4am

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Eating Out

Eating Out The Essentials

The Directory section consists of establishments currently advertising in Bentsifi and others which Bentsifi’s editors believe are worthy of your attention.

Entries are at the discretion of the editor.

To ensure your inclusion contact 0244697046 for a mandatory or enhanced entry.

Regular Entry Name, location [optional]

PJ Recommends AFRICAN The Buka Osu Marquis Tante Marie Labone Eu Grand Ecuyer Ring Road

ASIAN Chinese Royal Dragon, La Palm Dynasty The following attract an investment for Osu, Off Oxford Street a minimum of 3 insertions Mandatory Entry Name, Regal Chinese Osu location, telephone Imperial Peking contact Granada Hotel Enhanced Entry Name, location, telephone and Hinlone email contact, Labone website address plus Wok Inn brief description [max 30 Adabraka words] Palace of the East Call 0244 697046 for Awudome details.

Tip Top Osu TIan Tai Sakaman Oriental Village Osu Kit Kat Dansoman Dragon House 88 Osu Tsing Tao Osu Dynasty Osu Golden Bowl Tema Community 5 Golden Triangle East Legon Mandarin Airport Residential Area Ocean Comm. 12, Tema Palace Dzorwulu Regal Osu The Landing 30

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Kotoka Airport China House Osu Danquah Cirlce Indian Heritage Indian Osu,Off Salem Road near Osu Presby GHANAIAN Azmerra Roman Ridge near Borstal Country Kitchen Osu, 2nd Ringway Ghanaian Village La Palm Hotel Le Jardin Roman Ridge Top Taste Kokomlemle Sober Spot West Legon MI King Teshie-Nungua Asanka Ring Road Central Back Pass Accra Central Abba Fresh Gardens New Achimota Twinsti Aviance, Airport Trafix A canteen restaurant serving a variety of well prepared local dishes for lunch. Try their Jollof dish!

National Theatre Odo Rice Kokomlemle Labone Coffee Shop Labone Favourite Fast Food Osu Nyaniba Estates Cornet Kokomlemle Akapulko Madina

Home Touch Burma Camp LOCAL (CHOP BARS) Asanka Local Osu Asanka Ring Road near Bus Stop Blue Gate Off Oxford St. El Gringo Osu, Nyaniba Est. Heavy Do Kokomlemle Auntie Grace Opp. Calvary Methodist

WESTERN French Le Must Labone, Orphan Crescent La Chaumiere Airport Residential Area Le Magellan Nyaniba Estates Italian Bella Roma Osu, off Oxford Street FUSION/ INTERNATIONAL Melting Moments Coffe shop/Cafe.

Serves sandwiches, paninis, light lunch meals like salads, as well as some Ghanaian fare. Excellent atmosphere. Order smoothies, coffes and cakes. Dade St, Labone.

T. 0244.290.190

Cafe dez Ami next to Afrikiko, Kanda Cuppa Cuppacino Coffe shop/Cafe.

Serves sandwiches, light lunch, salads, as well as some Ghanaian fare.

Great coffee T Sankofa Movenpick Hotel 1A @ Villa Monticello Airport Residential Branche Golden Tulip Accra Mukyiya

African Regent Hotel Zara Best Western Hotel Mansonia Royal Fiesta Hotel Wiase Holiday Inn Hotel SEAFOOD Captain Hook Cantoments Taverna Tropicana Nima Residential Area The Maya Cova New

Artist Alliance Gallery, La CONTEMPORARY Fast Food KFC Osu, Oxford Street Bus Stop Ring Road Central Frankies Osu, Oxford Street Papaye Osu, Oxford Street Chicken Republic

Osu, Oxford Street Oriental Delight North Kaneshie Cooland Kokomlemle Gold House Dansoman Chick ‘N’ Lick ‘N’ Osu Churcheese Labone Foods Inn Osu

Foods Inn Cantonments 37 Frankies Osu Mr. Bigg’s K. Nkrumah Circle Papaye Spintex Road Papay North Kaneshie

AZMERA Azmera Restaurant is a contradiction in terms. Entering the busy dining room that makes up this restaurant, you’ll be forgiven for thinking it is a ‘continental’ eatery.

It’s a large room, though with the short ceiling, bright and clean with white walls and columns and cream floor tiles. Looking around, there’s a neat arrangement of seating in wooden furniture, and wrought iron bar and screens that create discreet nooks.

The concept is simple; an upscale canteen complete with a food island where their popular lunch buffet is served every Friday. High on taste, the food here is indigenous, and very heavy on traditional West African fare; Fufu, banku, Atcheke, plantain, boiled and pounded yam, eba, the whole tropical carb lot, accomapanied with all manner of soups including abunubunu and akrantie, nkontomire, garden-eggs, egusi, and the kind of stuff. Prices are a little above average, with a typical plate costing GhC The waiting staff makes the whole Azmera experience almost always festive, with, particularly the waitresses, welcoming diners clad

in traditional Ghanaian costume complete with bead jewelry. It’s a pretty sight but when you are hungry, the strutting irritates! And although pricey, they get the food right.

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Escape

Short Breaks

Manicured lawns, bouganvilia and palm trees set the mood at this riverside paradise which is a great weekend getaway owing to its proximity to Accra - just an hour away.

Ghana’s Vacation Paradise

Afrikiko Hotel, Akosombo

Vacation Paradise

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Always tranquil, the Afrikiko Riverside Resort at Akosombo, now under new management - Hotels and Leisure Africa (HALA) is a delightful garden facility which is always an experience to savour.

Focused on improving its services, facilities with an aim to providing a competitive and convenient option for guests to enjoy themselves in a most beautiful, the new managers intend to continue the experience of a relaxing and peaceful environment; the perfect paradise get-away.

Enjoy our boat rides to the Akosombo hydro-electric dam sites, or south to the Adomi bridge, as you partake in meals on the boat while you luxuriate in a glass or wine, and some canapes while taking in the scenery!

Within the beautiful gardens are is a swimming pool for both adults and children, and a bar from where you can get all kinds of drinks, The kitchens serves some scrumptious seafood.

The bedrooms are spcious and en-suite, and are spread apart enough for guests to have their own peace of space.

Dine in the evening by candlelight at the river-front as you feast your eyes on the silluette of the serene mountains on the shimmering water. bentsifi.com

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ROTARY CLUBS: Meetings

GETTING AROUND

New road arrangements; one-way systems and flyovers, supposed to help to ease traffic in the inner city, doesn’t seem to be working!

The traffic is getting worse!

Nonetheless, getting around in the Central Business District is now fairly easy. Once you know a landmark near your destination - street names are not popular – you can get to where you want to go quite easily. Ask for which neighbourhood you’re going, and the nearest landmark.

By Bus: Several mini buses and Lorries known as ‘Tro-tro’ run regular routes in the inner city, and while congested, it is the most inexpensive way to travel. The Metro Mass Transport service, recently introduced large buses run on many routes too.

By Taxi: The distinctive Ghana taxi - with yellow painted mud guards- are in plenty and run a

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shared, or hire service called ‘dropping’. The shared service picks and drops passengers along a particular route while the hire service, which any taxi would usually oblige, takes passengers directly to their destination.

You must, however, determine what you pay before embarking on your journey. Different rates apply for different trips, but the current hourly rate for taxi is between GhC8 per hour for more than 5 hours and GhC10 for less.

By Car: While traveling by car is fairly easy, many visitors find driving in inner Accra, cumbersome. Many commercial drivers flaunt traffic regulations and while this rarely results in serious accidents, it can be frustrating. Many car rental companies in town provide drivers as well, and this may be a better alternative. Contact the Car Rental Association of Ghana on, or the Accra Visitor Service, 0244.69.7046 for a

DIRECTORY

recommendation.

On Foot: Recent improvements in clearly demarcated pavements have helped to make walking, which is the cheapest way to get around, a lot more easy. The only snug may be the heat of the scorching sun if you are not well protected. So get your straw hat and sunglasses out! Be careful though, particularly in the Central Business District, as the many other pedestrians can push you onto the road.

Always try to walk facing oncoming traffic.

Inter-City Travel A number of private coach companies run a schedule service to all the regional capitals, and most major other towns.

Also, the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) has buses that ply major towns.

There are also ‘Fast Cars’, hatchback saloons that go very fast to the destination for about twice the price of the regular schedule routes. Be advised not to take them after dark. Many begin their journey at the major lorry station at Kwame Nkrumah Circle.

ESSENTIAL INFORMATION Local Time Ghana is on one time zone; Greenwich Mean Time.

Driving License: Visitors planning to drive or hire a car must have an international Drivers License.

Electricity: Most hotels have 3-pin or 2-pin sockets operating at 220 volts which accept British and European standard plugs.

What To Wear: It is really just hot all year round, but in January and February, the dry Hamattan wind blows in from the Sahara. Otherwise, it is generally humid in the south and hot/dry upcountry in the north, so wear natural fiber materials like cotton, linen.

VISITOR SERVICES To Help You The Accra Visitor Service (t. 0244.69.7046) provides a city concierge service and can help you plan an itinerary for an excursion, and generally point you in the right direction.

AIRLINES (0302) Afriqiyah 252.465 Air Burkina 768.892 Air Ivoire 765.377 Air Namibia 766.602 Alitalia 769.226 American Airlines 688.804 Antrak Air 765.377 Arik Air 0273.65.5657 British Airways 214.970 Cathay Pacific 236.118 City Link 770.445 Delta Airlines 213.111 Egypt Air 773.537 Emirates 213.131 Ethiopian Airlines 664.856 Kenya Airways 214.700 KLM 785.900 Lufthansa Airline 243.893 Middle East Airlines 230.867 Royal Air Maroc 787.182 South African 783.564 Virgin Atlantic 215.215 Virgin Nigeria 823.003 EMBASSIES (0302) Afghanistan 777.719 Andorra 228.571 Australia 7012.961 Austria 783.368 Bangladesh 25.017 Belgium 762.281 Benin 774.889 Brazil 774.908 Bulgaria 772.404 Burkina Faso 221.988 Canada 211.525 China 777.073 Comoros 228.422 Cote d’Ivoire 774.611 Cuba 765.946 Czech Republic 223.540 Denmark 254.373 Egypt 776.854 European Union 774.094 France 214.550 Germany 221.311

Guinea 777.921 Hungary 400.770 India 775.601 Iran 760.521 Iraq 221.665 Israel 0242.15.1137 Italy 775.621 Japan 765.060 Consulate of Jordan 221.203 Korea (DPRK) 760.205 Korea (ROK) 777.533 Lebanon 776.727 Liberia 775.641 Libya 774.819 Malaysia 763.691 Mali 663.276 Morocco 775.669 Netherlands 214.350 Niger 224.962 Nigeria 778.158 Norway 220.101 Pakistan 0243.57.6446 Palestine 778.736 Philippines 500.907 Russia 775.611 Rwanda 251.894 Saudi Arabia 774.311 Sierra Leone 769.190 South Africa 740.450 Spain 774.004 Sweden 773.145 Switzerland 228.125 Togo 777.950 Turkey 221.665 United Kingdom 221.645 U.S.A 741.000 Zimbabwe

780.958 NON-GOV. ORG. (0302) Action Aid Ghana 764.931 Action on Disability & Development 022.213 ADRA 220.779 Aid to Artisans (ATAG) 771.375 Asso. of Africa Universities 774.495 Care International 225.920 Catholic Relief Services 776.188

Child Aid 780.315 Christian Children’s Fund of Canada (CCFC) 022.004 Citizens Dev. Solutions 771.426 Creative NGO 0246.54.1996 Freedom from Hunger 774.828 Freidrich Ebert Foundation 772.471 Freidrich Neumann F’tion 778.066 Friends of the Earth 225.963 Habitat for Humanity 231.268 Help Age 778.896 IN Network Ghana 236.582 Infanta Malaria Prevention Foundation 225.813 International Executive Services Corps (IESC) 771.426 Osu Library Fund 0277.45.2380 Oxfam Ghana 764.931 Plan International 778.039 Ricerca e Cooperazione 782.098 Sight Savers Int 774.210 SOS Children’s Village 222.867 Stop Killing Us 0209.17.8345 Techno Serve 773.873 US Peace Corps 775.984 VSO Ghana 220.471 Wateraid Ghana 776.440 West African Aids Foundation (WAAF) 761.294 World Vision Int. 232.601 INTERNATIONAL AGENCIES

(0302) Agence Francaise 773.840 CIDA 211.525 DANIDA 226.972 DED 772.064 DFID 253.283 FAO 666.851 GTZ) 777.375 IMF 666.031 JICA 760.781 OATUU 774.531 SNV 776.198 UNICEF 777.972 UNDP 773.890 UNESCO 765.499

Accra La Beach Hotel Mon12.30pm Accra North African Regent Hotel Mon 6pm Accra South African Regent Hotel Tue 6pm Ring Road Central African Regent Hotel Tue 6pm Tema Rotary Centre, Tema Tue 6.30pm Accra Airport African Regent Hotel Wed 6pm Accra Ridge Maxlot Hotel Wed 7pm Accra West Golden Tulip Wed 12.30pm Accra Achimota Nogahil Hotel Thurs 6pm Accra East African Regent Hotel Thurs pm Accra Labone Maxlot Hotel Thurs 6pm Osu RE Midindi Hotel Thurs 12.30pm Tema Meredian Rotary Centre, Tema Thurs 6pm Accra Adenta Jeffking Palace Hotel Sun 6pm

We welcome info. on your event to us for publication. Please ensure it reaches us by the 15th of the preceding month of the date of your event. Subject to the editor’s discretion. Please send all information to bentsifi@gmail. com and we will be happy to publish it for you. For editorial and promotional enquiries, please call 0244 .69.7046 UNHCR 777.419 UN Info Centre 665.511 UNFPA 773.890 USAID 741.200 WHO 763.918 GHANA GOV. (0302) Assoc of Ghana Industries 779.023 Bank of Ghana 666.902 Ghana Cocoa Board 661.912 Export Promotion Council 683.153 GIPC 665.127 Minerals Commission 772.783 Political Resources 222.153 National Development Planning Commission 664.942 Civil Aviation Authority 776.171 Energy Commission 400.310 Meteorological Services 701.2520 Police Service 228112

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