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FirstWord Bentsifi Published by ACVB P. O. Box 3399, Accra 1 Kade Close Kanda Estates Tel: 0244 697046 Email: bentsifi@gmail.com EDITORIAL Editor PaJohn Bentsifi Dadson Editorial Assistant Kobby Koomson Henry Derban STUDIO Cover Design Nana K. Duah Art Director Ben Darteh Graphics Oduro Asiamah Photography Francis Kokoroko, Kwaku Gyabaa Leabiloe Molapo Steve Ababio Steven Adusei Emmanuel Bobbie Marketing Rhoda Acquah
Akwaaba, Miawoezor, Welcome to a hamattan laden Accra; old but still a little wet behind the ears, young but jaded… December in Accra is a different kettle of fish! It’s a time when many ‘visiting friends and family’ vacationers storm the capital for Christmas from their sojourns abroad. This is great cause for many family gatherings and also the many, many events that take place during the period. From the Joy FM Keteke Fever (now Disco Fever) which gathers a generation of people who always want to feel the nostalgia of their more youthful days, to the various musical concerts by the big music stars, which now sees the young hiphop generation taking over from the likes of Kojo Antwi, our maestro who dominated the Christams live concert scene for some two decades. But, wait, Kojo is still around, he gives a ‘free’ outdoor concert on Oxford St on the 24. Running from the weekend of the 18 till Jan 3, see the events list for the back to back line up of activities. This is interspersed with the family parties, marriages and other private events! Give intimate gig at the Taverna Tropicana in the backstreets of Nima, with its eclectic metallic décor and the very swanky and swinging +233 which ensure a good measure of live Jazz and other mature music. Or get to Aphrodisiac for some good old fashion club bang! Here’s wishing you all a great Christmas and a fab New Year! We’ll be bringing you another online list for January before we get the hard copies going again, so do enjoy! There’s plenty to do in the nation’s capital, this happening city! Have fun!
PaJohn
Publisher Bentsifi-ACVB 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.
Contents Bulletin | 5
Eating Out | 12
Events;The Critical List|6
Entertainment | 14
ACCRAlife
Travel | 15
Accra Scene | 9
Getting Around | 16
Shops & Services | 11
Directory | 17
*Cover photo: Emmanuel Bobbie
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We can’t go through this month without... ... joining the Disco Fever train with our Afro wig and bell bottom trousers and party till we drop... ...getting a copy of Kofi Akpabli’s
hilarious book on contemporary Ghanaian culture; Tickling The Ghanaian
... getting some laughter at the ‘Night of a 1013 Laughs & Music’ taking place at The Dome on Mon 26
...order my first dish at the new Maya Cova seafood restaurant inside Ablade Glover’s Artist Alliance Gallery overlooking the Atlantic Ocean! opening on Sat 17!
... joining Sonni Balli & friends including our own Samini for the Raggalistic gig; Resolution at The Dome on Sat 30.
...catching
a movie or two at the Silverbird, especially as they will be showing at midnight
...attending the Sarkodee concert takin place at The Dome on Christmas Day!
...joining Pastor Otabil for Crossover at the Ohene Gyan Stadium on Sun 31
...attending the hot
ticketed T Pain concert!
...joining in the rave at ‘ ‘Ghana Rocks’ at The Dome featuring Chipmunk on the 27.
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Capital Delights
We bring you some dining highlights for the Yultide
Poolside, Golden Tulip 12 noon Relax and enjoy big grill party. Chill out with smooth beats and let yourself go for a while Poolside, Movenpick
CHRISTMAS EVE SAT 24 12.00noon Festive buffet inclusive of welcome drink with music by Party Lines Branche Restaurant, Golden Tulip 6pm Festive Carvery buffet inclusive of welcome drink with music by Sandra backed by Pianist Branche Restaurant, Golden Tulip 6.30pm Scrumptious buffet with live band rendering unforgettable melodies Sankofa Restaurant, Movenpick 6.30pm Welcome apertifs and Christmas Carols with National Symphony Orchestra Africa Regent Hotel 8pm Traditional Christmas eve eight course meal Munkyia Restaurant, Africa Regent
CHRISTMAS DAY Sun 25 6am Buffet breakfast till 11.00am Branche Restaurant, Golden Tulip 7am The ‘O Come All Ye Faithful’ breakfast Africa Regent Hotel 11.00am ‘Jingle Bells’ Brunch Africa Regent Hotel 12.15pm Succulent buffet with live band in festive and elegant atmosphere Ballroom, Movenpick
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12.30pm A delectable lunch with a choice of a set menu or buffet, a nativity play and Christmas carols from The Winneba Youth Choir. Enjoy a leisurely afternoon with children on bouncing castle, face painting, cotton candy and surprise photo shoot with Father Christmas. Akwaaba & Primavera Restaurant, Labadi Beach Hotel 1pm Buffet lunch with music by Tagoe Sisters backed by Executive Brothers Band. Children receive special gifts from Santa Branche Restaurant, Golden Tulip
6pm Buffet dinner with lively music by Peace Combo Branche Restaurant NEW YEAR’S EVE Sat 31
Join in the Champain Countdown to the New Year!
6pm Festive Buffet Dinner inclusive of a welcome drink with classy soothing music by Eric and Jennifer enjoying a 4-course set menu inclusive of a glass of sparkling wine in the private dining area. Branche Restaurant, Golden Tulip
7.30pm Celebrate in style, Join in the ‘Winter Wonderland’ and experience the magic of the season! Movenpick Hotel 8pm Welcome drink, extensive festive buffet, salsa performances and music by Jewel Ackah & his Butterfly International Band and guest artiste, A.B. Crentsil till day break. Spectacular fireworks at midnight Poolside, Golden Tulip Hotel 8pm Join in the ‘Champagne Countdown’ in the lobby at a quarter to midnight, after enjoying cocktail ‘de fermeture’ with the Ghana National Symphony Orchestra and an Afropolitan 8-course meal! Mukyia, African Regent Hotel
7.00pm ‘Holy Night’ Dinner Africa Regent Hotel
BOXING DAY Mon 26 10am Pilolo Kids Party with Rabena & Santa Africa Regent 11.30am Afropolitan Brunch Munkyia Restaurant, Africa Regent 11.30pm Enjoy assorted grilled meats inclusive of a welcome drink of Fresh Palmwine with lively music by Executive Brothers Band Branche Restaurant, Golden Tulip 12noon Set menu inclusive of 1 draft beer or soft drink with music by Party Lines
Lashibi resident Anne Sackey has lived in Accra for more than 30 years. Running the PR department of Multichoice Ghana the past several years, Anne, who originally comes from Kumasi is also a chartered marketer, and quite meticulous at her work. Asked what her favourite taste of the capital is, she said her had several, but the following stood out. “O, I love the grilled peppered pork at Don’s Place, and the Domedo from that place in Laterbiokoshie. Also, the tatale and beans from the stall in (the backstreets of) Adabraka and the lamb sharwama at Chase at Labone.
The Digital Nomad
Bulletin
Chances are somebody on your shopping list has asked for an Android phone, iphone or Blackberry. Of course, whether they’re lucky enough to get one of the hot products featured below depends if they’ve been naughty or nice. Or perhaps you want to get one for yourself. But, wait, which of these three should you choose? Tough choice, but help is here. Let me try and break down platforms for you. Lets start with the Android phones. An Android phone is built together with a handset manufacturer such as Samsung or HTC with Google. So the hardware manufacturer provides the hardware whiles google provides the Operating System making available lots of functionalities on lots of devices. The Operating System is the software which runs on the phone. If the person you want to give the gift to is always on the internet and a techy, a device running Android will be a best bet. Most people who text all day would prefer a blackberry because of the BBM - a cool messaging service from RIM. It has an incredible
cool keyboard for writing and keying information compared to some of the common Android phones and the iphone. If you decide to get a blackberry, install the opera browser because the default browser is not all that great. If you want an iphone, you might want to consider whether you like speed, and if you run a lot of apps at the same time on your phone. If you get convinced by its good looks and more stylish design, you will probably have to go for the iphone 4s which can easily perform multitasking, editing video, and placing FaceTime calls. All while maximizing battery life for a better gaming experience. So very simple, Blackberrys are suitable for text and email addicts, iPhone will be fun for people who like cool and easy gadgets and Android fits people who want a bit of everything. Visit http://www.google.co.ug/africa/trader/home for some cool deals on where to pick up your gadget for the xmas. Fiifi Baidoo
Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts has officially opened its 260-room Mövenpick Ambassador Hotel in Accra. 7km from Kotoka International Airport, all rooms have everything business and leisure travelers desire: spacious and contemporary, designed to deliver a restful stay and a comfortable work environment with a large desk, free high-speed Internet and a 40-inch LCD TV. Mövenpick Ambassador also encourages links with current Ghanaian art by commissioning work from contemporary artists. Each room has at least two original paintings by local artists and the corridors on each floor feature works from more of Ghana’s prominent artists. The hotel blends every aspect of 21st century excellence alongside original artworks including stunning wooden carvings of animals, artefacts and design features. The lobby’s striking chandelier and the rich hues of the hotel’s tapestries and paintings evoke the magic and mystery of West African culture.
Entries Welcome 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
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Events ART EXHIBITION Fri 23, 3pm. Ghanaian Life As Fine Art Photography An viewing of a selection of portraits and study in photography by Nana Annan. Sweetie’s Lounge , off Spintex Road. Thurs 8 - Sat. 17 Ghana Meets India A display of rich cultural artefacts from both Ghana and India will take centre stage at the exhibition. Ghanaian artist Anane Asare and Indian Vedpathak, are international artists who will get their thought-provoking ethic artefacts displayed at the venue. Alliance Francaise PERFORMING ARTS THEATRE Sat 3, Sun 4. 4pm & 8pm The Day Dad Came Ebo Whyte’s latest offering. Ama wants Jane to get married, she loves Kofi, Kofi loves Candy, Joe loves Ama.. And her father steps in! National Theatre Tues 27 4pm & 8pm The Day Dad Came. Part of the Festival of plays from Roverman Production which continues in the New Year (Synopsis as above) SHOWS Fri 9, 7pm Ghana Fashion Awards The fashion industry gets a look-in by some industry players with another scheme to reward skill and hard work. M-Plaza hotel, Roman Ridge Tue. 20, 8:30pm La Balle Rouge (The Red Ball Show) A visual opera that develops a subtle pallet of emotions building up in intensity with the music of the quartet and the Neon Band. Alliance Francais Sun 25, 8pm. Ghana Movie Awards Platform honouring our actors and practitioners within the industry. Performances from some of our favourite stars. Accra International Conference Centre COMEDY Sun 25, 4pm & 8pm Afia Siriboe For President Starring KSM, a popular radio & TV personality, This monologue takes
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THE CRITICAL LIST The best of what’s on this month
swipes at our national politic in the days leading up to elections. “A time for us to laugh at ourselves!” National Theater Mon 26, 7pm A Night Of 1013 Laughs & Music A regular fixture that’s always a hit, endure side splitting laughter from comedians from the West African sub-region including Elenu, Seyi Law, Buchi, Funny Bone and Ajebo, all from Nigeria. Also on stage Ghana’s Funny Face. Accra International Conference Centre SPOKEN WORD Sun 11. 5pm Alewa: Rebirth Of Spoken Word Art lovers, entertainers and wordsmiths will be in full action to bring the best-spoken word and music to patrons. Sweetie’s Lounge, Flower Pot Junction, Spintex Road Sun.18 .5pm Poetry: With The Ehalakasa Group Poets get to share with, critique and perform for one another. After every third Talk Party, there is what is called the “Talk Party Plus” with an emphasis on performances rather than readings. Nubuke Foundation FILM Thurs 1. 7pm Thursday Films @ Goethe Institut Ping Pong-German Movie Family tragedy with excellent German movie stars: Love, Adulthood. A young boy lost his father. He visits relatives to search for a good world. He gets in emotional touch with his aunt. Situation escalates. Something awesome happens... Goethe Institut Sat 17. 7pm Familiar Strangers Producer/ Actress Luckie Lawson premières her latest work with a special showing at the poolside of the new seafood restaurant behind Omanye House. Features John Dumelo, Luckie Lawson, Nana Ama McBrown. Maya Cova, Artist Alliance, Omanye House, La Fri 30, 7pm. Ties That Bind. Premiere of Leila Djansi’s new movie about the universal struggles of three women from very diverse backgrounds who are all living with the pain of the loss of their children. Stars Hollywood’s Kimberly Elise, Omotola and
Ama K Abebrese. National Theatre. KIDS Daily 10am. Mall Kids Square An indoor playground offering safety and excitement. Surrounded by the Mall’s food court means kids can enjoy goodies too! Accra Mall Mon 26. 12noon ‘Pilolo’ Kids Party With Rabena inflatable fun, join others kids for an exciting afternoon of activities including face painting, swimming, Santa’s grotto, Burst the Balloon, music and more. African Regent Hotel MUSIC CHORAL Sat. 17, 7:30pm National Symphony Orchestra Special Christmas Concert Resident conductor Isaac Annoh will lead Ghana’s National Symphony Orchestra with a special guest choir. Both popular Christmas songs and classical Christmas pieces will be performed. This will be a concert for the entire family with a sing-a-long in the 2nd half of the concert. Centre for National Culture CONTEMPORARY Fri 2, 7pm Highlife Dance Party Joy fm’s celebration of Highlife music with a live band dance gig featuring the genre’s great including A. B. Crentsil, Ofori Amponsah, Ben Brako among others. The Place, Trade Fair Center Fri 2, 7pm Music Of Ghanaian Origin (MOGO) Citi fm’s highlife stage extravaganza, this year featuring George Darko and a host of other seasoned highlife legends. National Theater Friday 30 8pm 90s Jam Have a ball with the lads from Joy fm as they party to tunes from the 1990s. Come meet Bola Ray, Nii Ayi and DJ Black! Roof Top, Silver Star Towers NEIGHBOURHOOD Fri. 2.10am Ultimate Poolside Jam
Events
Featuring Yaw Siki, T-Wizzle and Apaatse with Djs Champagne, Pizaro and money on rotation. De-Temple Social Centre, Achimota Sun. 18, 3pm Facebook Omo Tuo Party Come and meet your facebook friends and enjoy Omo tuo like never before Chemu Park (Near Narh Bita Tema Comm. 7) Wed’s, 7pm Yfm Reggae Night Catch the Caribbean feeling right here in Ghana, La Tawala Beach Resort (near Labadi Polyclinic) Thurs 29. 8pm Oaa-’87 Records Night It’s the Motown jam everybody is attending! In a spirit of camaraderie, the 1987 year group of Achimota School kick off their silver anniversary of leaving school with this jam featuring top Old Achimotan DJs like Lexis of Soundcheck, Rami Baiti, Giles Bossman and Old Presec boy, DJ Blow! Zanzibar, Labone. Fri 30, 9pm The Tulip Mirror Ball (TMB6) Mature and sophiscated disco session at the plush hotel drawing a fine crowd who come to loose themselves with DJ Blow at the helm playing old school music. Branche Lounge, Golden Tulip Hotel. Fri 30. 7pm A BBQ Pool Party Aims to bring together Ghanaians visiting from the Diaspora. Lizzy’s Sports Complex (A&C Mall) SHOW Fri 2, 7pm Farmers Day Jam: Microphone Moment Featuring Bracket and Waje from Nigeria and Praye, Raquel, Efya, Mimi, Trigmatic, Yaw Siki, Ketse, Edumuji and other artistes from Ghana. Aviation Social Centre Fri 2. 9pm Burning! If you are clamouring for a total dancehall experience look no further as R2Bees, Stonebuoy, Iwan,Fire Stone and other dancehall artistes entertain you. Barcadis Pub and Nite Club Fri 9, 8:30pm Afro Moses In Concert The Institute for Music and Development in collaboration with the Alliance Française present Australia based Ghanaian Afropop
star Afro Moses as part of New Music Ghana project, which seeks to empower young musicians. A multi award winner, a composer, multi instrumentalist and music teacher, Moses is set to thrill fans with a dramatic blend of rhythms from diverse parts of the world. Alliance Francaise Sat 10 10pm Ticketghana.Com Celebrating it’s second year anniversary with a club party. Cinderella’s Night Club Fri 16. 8:30pm M.Anifest In Concert Also featuring high-life maestro Ebo Taylor and Bonze Konkoma, Akablay & the Abiza band and female sensation Efya, young fusion artist Manifest is set to thrill crowds. Alliance Francaise Mon 26. 8pm Sweet Sensation It’s an evening with Vikki Spyce in concert. Citizen Kofi Entertainment Centre, Osu. CONCERT Sat 17. 7pm Loud In Gh Y’FM, ‘Official Frequency for the Young and Young @ Heart’ brings together many chart topping musicians for this year on one stage. The Dome Sat 17. 8pm Indie Fuse 2011 Music Festival Witness Ghanaian and international artists create live sonic rainbows of edgy Afrobeat, electronic soul, R&B, hip hop and West African folk grooves. Indie Fuse is the pulse of the new African sound, a musical révolution - right hère in Accra - whose influence will be felt throughout the world. Alliance Francaise Fri 23, 7pm Christmas Benefit Concert Join dramatic soprano, Ella Williams, as she performs some of the season’s most loved anthems; as well as popular operatic arias. Also featuring the Ghana Symphony Orchestra. In benefit of the Gold Earth Foundation for social development and awareness! Movenpick Hotel Fri 23. 8pm The Becca Girl Talk Concert The ultimate girls night out with restrictions to guys, boyfriends and men. Liberate your girls and lets them have fun at the ‘rlg’ Becca Show. National Theatre. Sat 24, 7pm T.Pain Live In Concert
The international superstar join some local acts and Nigerian MI to serves some heavy duty music. From the 233 Connect joint. The Dome Sun 25, 7pm Rapperholic: Sarkodie. Live In Concert. One of Ghana’s rap heavyweights, Sarkodie will stage his maiden solo concert with a promising night of unrestricted entertainment. The Dome Sun 25. 6.30pm Christmas With Danny Nettey & Friends Prepare for an unforgettable Christmas filled with God’s love for you. Ghana’s top baritone Danny is joined by many of his friends for this quaint “Silent Night” La Palm Royal Beach Hotel Tue 27. 8pm Ghana Rocks Concert A night dedicated to true hip-hop and contemporary Ghanaian music with non-stop performances by some of the best artistes home and abroad. Accra’s biggest rave! The Dome,. Fri 30. 7pm The ‘Yes Boss’ Concert Featuring some of Ghana’s ‘baddest’ rap music artistes including D-Black, Dee Money, D-Cryme, Sarkodie,Raquel,Stay Jay,Trigmatic, R2Bees,Stay Jay. And from Nigeria, Darey, Mo Cheddah and Davido, this is one évent that’s sure to thrill hip hop fans. The Dome CULTURAL EVENTS COMMUNITY Mon 26. 3pm Bukom Jama Gala Indigenous Jama groups from Jamestown and Chorkor battle to become the Champions of the traditional musical form that is heavy on social commentary and home-grown contemporary Ga humour! Funded by the Ghana Denmark Cultural Fund. Bukom Square, Ga Mashie EXPO Thurs 1 - Sat 3. 6pm Development In Pictures (Afd @ 70) The exhibition dubbed ‘Changing The Way We See Developing and Emerging Countries’ aims to give a new vision of developing and to break away from the image that is too often associated with them. Alliance Francaise
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Events
Fri 2, 10am Pre-Xmas Shopping & Mingle Come and shop for your desired clothing for less and mingle with friends in an amiable atmosphere and acquire quality products from Horseman Shoes, mSimps, Purple Twirl, Hues & Alloys and Horseman Starbites, East Legon Sat 10, 2pm Fashion Show & Fair: The Young Designers’ Hub Showcasing recent creations of talented member designers, from funky to sophisticated, but always affordable. A Fashionista’s Paradise featuring accessories, bags, shoes, dresses, and every thing fashionable at discounted prices. The night is filled with an extravagant fashion show with a special musical feature; the fashion galore will stage fifteen (15) of our young designer’s with stunning fashion statements on the runway. Alliance Française Sat 17, 10am Cuppa Cappuchino Christmas Yard Sale Also view an exhibition of candles, beads, clothes and gift items for Christmas. Whatever is left over from the yard sale will go to various charities and institutions. Clear out the clutter, donate and help a worthy cause. Cuppa Cappuchino Mon 20 - Wed 22 Ghana Turkish Export Products Expo Industrial and consummer trade exhibition of goods from Turkey. Accra International Conference Centre Thurs 22, 6pm Ghana Professionals Network Cocktail An excellent opportunity to network among your peers including: Entrepreneurs, lawyers, Architects, Bankers, Real Estate professionals, Investors, Media and Marketing Professionals, among others. Citizen Kofi Entertainment Center, Osu. MEETINGS / WORKSHOPS Sat. 3, 7pm Swiss Ghanaian Business Week - Gala Night Dinner & Trade Exhibition Trade Exhibition, Buffet, Lectures, Networking and Entertainment Movenpick Ambassador Hotel Sat 10. 9pm TEDx Dzorwulu Feel the spirit of the TED Talks, ideas sharing and networking here when Ghana’s young and fascinating thinkers, doers and teachers
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inspire attendees to create greater impact with their ideas. African Regent Hotel RELIGIOUS CONCERT Sat 10, 4pm Stratcomm Praise Jam A grateful heart is all you need to join employees of Stratcomm Africa in this praise jam that promises to bring the roof down. Show God gratitude for unlimited grâce National Theater Sun 4. 6pm Worship Train Experience a spiritual encounter with God through intense praise and worship with the Nii Okai Ministries. Presbyterian Church of Ghana, Sakumono Sat 31, 7pm Crossover A watchnight event with leader of International Central Gospel Church (ICGC) Pastor Mensah
Otabil featuring entertainment from season gospel acts, as well as praise and worship session and prayers with the Pastor. Ohene Gyan Stadium, Accra. SPORTS & RECREATION Tue 20 -Thurs 22. The Game Idol Ghana Are you a FIFA pro, then this is the opportunity to win $1000! Register, come play and win. Marseille Desailly Sports Camp (Lizzy’s Sports Complex), East Legon Wed 18 - Sun 22 Accra Polo Open Vodaphone sponsored Polo tournament featuring some of the best players in town. Accra Polo Ground
The Scene
What our cameras captured last month
The Mac Tonton Tribute Concert during the High Vibes Festival is getting bigger year after year...
The High Vibes Festival which took place at various venues in the capital last November saw the event drawing larger and larger crowds. From the opening event at the garden at the National Museum on Barnes Road through the shows at the Alliance Francaise and Afrikiko, as well as the ones featuring the UK’s Jazz star Courtney Pine, and Soul and Jazz diva Carleen Anderson were all massive hits. The iconic image of a head-phoned person on ‘high vibes’ used on the festival’s publicity materials and concert backdrop that has come to symbolize an innovative festival that is fast establishing itself as a refreshing component of Accra’s cultural and entertainment landscape. The third edition of the festival saw for the first time, the High Life Super Band featuring legends such as Pat Thomas, A.B. Crentsil and George Darko, Ambolley among other living legends who thrilled crowds at the Citizen Kofi Entertianment Centre. Also, as part of the festival, an interactive musical and multimedia exhibition designed to celebrate the works of legends such as Fela, Miriam Makeba, Marvin Gaye, Miles Davies, John Coltrane, Manu Dibango, Aretha Franklin, Bob Marley, Michael Jackson, Jimi Hendrix, James Brown, E.T. Mensah and Ebo Taylor.
London Jazz star Courtney Pine (below) was a special guest feature at this year’s festival and held a fabolous concert at the Movenpick
Nana Yaa Thomas (left) and Pat Thomas (below) were all part of the festival
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The Scene It’s Just Sophisticated, Mature Fun At Started some three months ago, the Tulip Mirror Ball has come to define Accra’s mature nightlife and it just gets better each time. With a theme for every event that happens every last Friday of the month, revelers just can’t get enough of DJ Blow’s selection which ensure they stay on the dance floor for hours on end. And as it happens at Ghana’s premiere interan-
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Tulip Mirror Ball tional hotel, it presents a sophistication that no other event in Ghana does. Conceived by DJ Blow with Karl Auburn and Gong Communications in collaboration with the Golden Tulip Hotel, there will be two events this December, the ‘touch of silver’ mid month one on Fri 16, and the Retro Afro one on the regular schedule date on Fri 30. Don’t miss out
DJ Blow engages revelers when he lowers the volume as they singlaong... It’s pure fun!
Shops & Services Apparel Monarki 0266.24.5235 Kofi Ansah Mawuli Kofi Okudzeto(MKOGH) Accessories mSimps 0262.97.5266 Trashy Bags 0302.776.060 Antiques Baba Sylla 0208.15.6544 Africa House 0302667716 Beauty Salons Allure Salon 0302773222 Bubbles 0302768941 Cable TV Cadmus Electronics 0302776830 Multiview Limited 0302325165 Catering
Gade Catering Services 0244.92.2725 Karish’s Delicacies 0244.37.6848 Handicraft Arts Centre Market 0302.66.2581 Getrade 0302.22.1752 Beads Sun Trade Ltd 0302.23.5982 Cedi Beads 0208.13.3482 Kente Cloth Baffour Gyamah Enterprise 0302229027 Dento Kente 0302761739 Paintings/Art Galleries The Loom Charway Art 0302.77.9210 Wood carvings Abel & Associates 0246204042 Small Coffin Maker 0244186333
Books Sytris Bookshop 0277.30.0800 EPP Services 0302.77.8853 Challenge 0302.22.2437 Event Planners Jandel Limited 0302.23.8390 Planit Events Ghana Charterhouse Productions E-volution International Photographers Steve Ababio 0243.51.4534 Emmanuel Bobbie 0243.03.2796 Kweku Gyabaa 0243.61.4927 Fancis Kokoroko 0265.52.9759 Fabric Woodin 0302.76.4371 Sara Fabrics
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Eating Out
THE ESSENTIAL LIST What the capital has to offer the discerning diner.
PJ Recommends 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] The following attract an investment for a minimum of 3 insertions
Mandatory Entry Name, location, telephone contact Enhanced Entry Name, location, telephone and email contact, website address plus brief description [max 30 words] Call 0244 697046 for details.
AFRICAN The Buka Osu Marquis Tante Marie Labone Eu Grand Ecuyer Ring Road ASIAN Chinese Royal Dragon, La Palm
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Dynasty Osu, Off Oxford Street Regal Chinese Osu Imperial Peking Granada Hotel Hinlone Labone Wok Inn Adabraka Palace of the East Awudome 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 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 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
Le Must Passing by and not turning to look at the building that houses this elegant restaurant is understandable. The frontage, with its average vista garden is not so eye catching or as tastefully decorated as the interior. But enter ‘Le Must’ and you are in for a great treat, literally and figuratively! With a menu that serves delectable French cuisine delicately dished out by owner Chef Ken himself, it boasts a wide choice of proteins and accompaniment to select from. Delightfully decorated with stonewalls and arch openings creating a quixotic cozy ambience, a false fireplace centerpiece, lit with red and orange bulbs sets the mood for every dinner experience. Small but intimate, seating about 50, there is a private room that can take up to a group of 20. Chef Ken knows how and when to add this or that spice that makes his dishes just delectable! And his deft hands make the best desserts in town! Try his Hot Chocolate Profiteroles and you’ll agree they are especially scrumptious. Delicately presented on a plate tonight is a full grilled Sole Fish in garlic sauce served with steamed rice. The sauce is creamy and a dash of squeezed fresh lemon gives it a sharpness that compliments the flush of the sole on the palate. For reservations, call 0244.66.1069
Eating Out
Auntie Grace Opp. Calvary Methodist WESTERN French Le Must Labone, Orphan Crescent La Borsalino Osu 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 Afrikiko, Kanda Sankofa Movenpick Hotel 1A @ Villa Monticello Airport 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
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Entertainment Night Life
THE ESSENTIAL LIST THE ESSENTIAL LIST Ourhottest pick ofnight the capital’s Our pick of the capital’s spots. hottest night spots.
It’s Live band music this Christmas! +233 Enjoy quality live music here, every night! +233 is the place for the mature crowd and the live music gives this joint its reputation as the most happening place for jazz and live music lovers in Accra. A grill hut serves some “wicked” pork kebabs too! Don’t be surprised if world-class musician takes the stage on the night of your visit! North Ridge, off Ring Road Central Taverna Tropicana Tucked within the leafy part of Nima (close to the Police Station) this joint is a bit of a surprise for its location. It used to be the capital’s best kept secret venues for seafood, but not since Soul singing chic Ofie landed there as a regular fixture with her band. If its not a girls night out she’s having with some fellow singers, she’ll be killing it on the dancefloor. Small and intimate, the Taverna serves a good time, everytime. Nima Residential Area. Abrantie Spot OK, this is the home of
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Ghana’s ‘serious’ Iron Boy Amakye Dede and his Apollo High Kings Band. Besides dishing out the delicious sounds of Amakye’s repertoire, the band also does some covers and can cause some seriously animated scenes when the crowd take to the dance floor. Abeka La Paz. Golden Tulip The Hit House band is often by the poolside here delivering some very infectious melodies, singalongs and feet moving tunes. Order a tall glas of something sweaty and chill the evening away by the pool. Golden Tulip Hotel Bywell’s Sometimes, it seems the only fun place in Accra is here! It has its own character; carefree, amusing yet a bit jaded. This outdoor venue is a little ruggered on the side but a real fun place to be if wild dancing is your thing. Osu Alisa Jazz Club Here is where you can do your sophisticated act. Swanky and fully air-conditioned, this joint is like the one you go to when you want peace and quite. Sometimes, there a combo, and you can tap along as they render some melodies or you can just get in a corner and croon your partner! Alisa Hotel, North Ridge.
This is the season to be merry, and below, we list the happening clubs and joints currently ruling in Accra!
Aphrodisiac Dzorwulu Bella Roma, Osu Millonaires, Citizen Kofi, Osu Excel, Airport Residential Cinderellas, Cantonments Grand Pappaz, Cantonments Rockstone’s Office, Cantonments Boomerang, Caprice Roxbury’s, Asylum Down Jokers, La Opps!, Bubiashie Roundabout Scratch, East Legon The New Cave, Kuku Hill, Osu
Night Clubs
Pubs, Cool Bars & Joints Twist, Headlines, Hospitality, Labone Monsoon, Osu Food Court Ryan’s Irish Pub, Osu Champs, Paloma, Ring Road Central Venus, Osu Celsbridge, Labone Rhapsody’s, Accra Mall Honeysuckle, Ring Rd opp Fire Service
Escape
THE ESSENTIAL LIST ...Travel and adventure
Chill Out At Accra's Beaches There are over 20 beach front facilities along Accra coastline. Some have access to the ocean in which you can swim, others are too rocky, but offer great ambience and have bars nearby that offer music, food and beverages for your pleasure. Here’s are some of the most popular.
Ave-Maria Beach This is a wellness resort with a spa, swimming pool and a bar with a terrace overlooking the Atlantic. Near the Greenwich Meridien Rock in Tema, it is one of the most historical sites along the coast with stories involving Ghana’s first President Nkrumah and Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth of England. New Coco Beach Resort In Nungua, this is a 3-star hotel facility with a beach front that has a bar where a band often plays live. Next Door Beach Resort A few kilometres away from La in Teshie, this is another popular bar set on a rocky beach that offers a quixotic ambience at night. La Beach Definitely the most popular, it is within the city and sees leisure seekers throng there every weekend and on holidays. It has lots of bars and stalls with masquerading jugglers, musicians and such. Near the 5-star Labadi Beach Hotel which has cordoned off a portion of it for its exclusive guests. Tawala Beach This joint is hip, and offers great mixes of beverages. Wednesday night are party nights! Akuma Village Beach Popular for its reggae session every Friday night. Set on a cliff overlooking the Ocean,
this is a beach front facility that has thatch huts and a well equipped bar. There are beds available. Osikan Beach Resort Access through the High Street, this popular bar is quite spread out overlooking the Atlantic in a rocky location so that the waves hit its walls. There is no access to the water, and absolutely no swimming but great view from the rocky hills within the vicinity. Korle-Gono Beach has grown to become very popular as a seafront facility with bars, and it hosts a host of events every so often. There is a motel with affordable rooms. Bojo Beach Some 10km west of Accra en route to Kokrobite, this is the only Island beach - sandwiched between a river & the sea - this facility is well spread with activities including water sports, canoe boat rides and also has a well stocked bar. Kokrobite A further 10km west from Bojo, Kokrobite/Bortianor is the beach resort haven of Ghana! There are several small hotels and bars as well as private beach houses and very popular during holidays.
0242 260 237 I 0244 385 008
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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
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.
ROTARY CLUBS: Meetings
Directory AIRLINES (0302) Afriqiyah 252.465 Air Burkina 768.892 Air Ivoire 765.377 Air Namibia 766.602 Alitalia 769.226 American Airlines 688.804 Arik Air 0273.65.5657 British Airways 214.970 Cathay Pacific 236.118 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 Domestic
City Link Antrak Air EMBASSIES Afghanistan Andorra Australia Austria Bangladesh Belgium Benin Brazil Bulgaria Burkina Faso Canada China Comoros Cote d’Ivoire Cuba Czech Republic Denmark Egypt European Union France Germany Guinea Hungary
770.445 765.377 (0302) 777.719 228.571 7012.961 783.368 25.017 762.281 774.889 774.908 772.404 221.988 211.525 777.073 228.422 774.611 765.946 223.540 254.373 776.854 774.094 214.550 221.311 777.921 400.770
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 Little Angels Trust Marie Stokes 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 INT.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 UNHCR 777.419 UN Info Centre 665.511 UNFPA 773.890 USAID 741.200 WHO 763.918
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
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
(0302)
Striking Force 666.560 Airport 777.678/592/768.615 Tesano 253.160/228.111 Labadi 775.225/785.182 Jamestown 662.416/663.929 Mobile Force 776.207 Madina 500.322 Legon 517.772 Ministries 666.285 Kaneshie 227.645/224.758 Nima 222.086/221.293/768.615 Accra HQ (Ring Road) 662.441/290 Cantonments 777.572/571/391 Accra North-East 517.770/1 Adabraka 221.368/222.264 Korle-Bu 664.249
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