Ghanaian rapper and songwriter Okyame Kwame has revealed that fellow musician Samini played a major role in inspiring him to adopt a vegetarian lifestyle.

During an interview on UTV on Friday, November 6, 2026, Okyame shared the story behind his decision to stop eating meat and how his dietary habits have evolved over the years.

According to Okyame Kwame, he had developed an interest in reducing his meat consumption from childhood, although he could not make independent food choices while living with his parents.

However, his encounter with Samini during Ghana’s participation in the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa introduced him to vegetarianism and helped him better understand the lifestyle.

He explained that Samini was already a vegetarian at the time and shared his experiences with him, encouraging him to be mindful of his nutrition to avoid becoming excessively lean.

Okyame Kwame recalled that although he had always intended to cut down on meat, his conversation with Samini gave him a clearer understanding of what it meant to eliminate meat from his diet.

“As a child, while living with my parents, I couldn’t choose what to eat. However, I knew that I would eventually cut down on my meat consumption. When Ghana went to the World Cup in South Africa in 2010, I met Samini. He is also a vegetarian, and he eats only eggs, which he consumes only once in a while,” he said.

The rapper also disclosed that several other Ghanaian entertainers follow vegetarian diets, although they do not frequently discuss their eating habits publicly.

He mentioned veteran musician Kojo Antwi, Kofi Kinaata and Blakk Rasta among personalities who have embraced vegetarianism.

Sharing how much his lifestyle has changed, Okyame Kwame said he has become so accustomed to avoiding meat that eating chicken has sometimes become difficult for him.

He explained that when he orders food served with chicken, he finds it easier to eat when the meat is chopped into smaller pieces and mixed with the food.

“Since then, when I buy food and they give me chicken, I wouldn’t be able to eat it unless they cut it into smaller pieces and mix it with the food,” he disclosed.

Beyond the influence of Samini, Okyame Kwame said personal health concerns eventually strengthened his decision to eliminate meat from his diet.

He revealed that after turning 40, he noticed that his blood pressure and cholesterol levels were increasing despite maintaining what he considered healthy habits, including exercising daily, monitoring his diet and getting enough sleep.

The development left him confused because he believed he was doing everything necessary to maintain good health. He even purchased a blood pressure monitor to regularly check his readings.

“Fast-forward to when I turned 40, my blood pressure and cholesterol levels were going up, and I even bought a blood pressure monitor. I didn’t understand why because I exercise every day, watch my diet and get enough sleep,” he recounted.

In response, the musician decided to experiment with eliminating meat from his meals to see whether it would make a difference to his health.

He disclosed that he went three years without eating meat, relying mainly on fish and eggs before eventually deciding to remove fish from his diet as well.

According to him, within eight weeks of stopping fish consumption, his cholesterol levels reportedly dropped and returned to normal, similar to the levels he recorded when he was younger.

The improvement further strengthened his commitment to vegetarianism, convincing him that the dietary change was beneficial to his personal health journey.

Ghanaian singer Efya has officially married Nigerian singer and songwriter Tomi Thomas in a traditional wedding ceremony held in Accra on Friday, November 6, 2026.

The colourful ceremony brought together several prominent figures from Ghana’s entertainment industry and beyond, including the Minister of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Abla Dzifa Gomashie; musician Sister Derby; actress Fella Makafui; socialite Hajia4Reall; and Chief Executive Officer of the National Film Authority, Kafui Danku.

The celebration highlighted the cultural ties between Ghana and Nigeria, as the couple and their guests embraced traditional attire, with colourful kente fabrics and elegant gold-themed outfits dominating the occasion.

Efya looked stunning in her traditional kente ensemble as family members, friends and guests gathered to celebrate the union. Videos shared on social media captured joyful moments from the ceremony, with guests celebrating and offering their best wishes to the newlyweds.

The traditional wedding comes months after the families of the couple held a knocking ceremony on February 14, 2026.

Tomi Thomas first rose to prominence as a member of the Nigerian music group Loud On Sound (LOS) before embarking on a solo career. Over the years, he has worked with several international artistes, including Jamaican dancehall star Buju Banton and American rapper Wale.

Following Friday’s traditional marriage ceremony, the couple are expected to celebrate their union with a white wedding on Saturday, November 7, 2026.

Ghanaian-Nigerian musician Mr Eazi has disclosed that the highest amount of money he has earned from an entertainment engagement came from working as a Master of Ceremonies (MC), rather than performing his own songs.

In an interview with 3Music, the Leg Over hitmaker revealed that he received his biggest payment as an artiste while hosting an event in the South of France.

According to him, his experience as an MC has opened up lucrative opportunities, with earnings from hosting events sometimes exceeding what he makes from performing on stage as a musician.

Mr Eazi also recounted hosting a major event in Sweden, where he entertained an audience estimated at between 7,000 and 10,000 people without performing any of his songs.

He explained that his responsibility at the event was solely to engage the audience and keep them entertained throughout the programme.

“The most money I’ve ever been paid as an artiste, I didn’t get paid as Mr Eazi. I got paid as the MC in the South of France. You should see the shows,” he said.

The musician’s revelation highlights another side of his entertainment career, demonstrating how opportunities beyond music performances can also become financially rewarding for artistes.

Speaking about his album The Evil Genius, Mr Eazi explained that the project was a reflection of his personal thoughts and state of mind during the period he created it.

He described the album as a personal artistic expression, noting that the songs were influenced by what was happening in his mind at the time.

December in Ghana is more than just the final month of the year. It is a season of excitement, reunion, entertainment, cultural expression and unforgettable celebrations. From the arrival of Ghanaians living abroad to the Christmas festivities, family gatherings, beach parties, concerts and crossover church services, the country gradually transforms into one big celebration ground.

Popularly known as Detty December, the festive season has grown into one of Africa’s most recognised cultural and entertainment experiences, attracting tourists, celebrities, music lovers and members of the African diaspora from different parts of the world.

For many Ghanaians, December is the time to reconnect with family and friends, travel to their hometowns, attend social events, enjoy traditional meals and take a break from the demands of everyday life.

However, the excitement does not end with Christmas. The celebrations continue through Boxing Day, the final days of December, New Year’s Eve and January 1, when people welcome another year with renewed hope, prayers and expectations.

The growing popularity of Detty December is closely connected to Ghana’s 2019 Year of Return initiative, launched by the government to encourage people of African descent, particularly those in the diaspora, to reconnect with their ancestral roots.

The initiative marked 400 years since the first recorded arrival of enslaved Africans in English North America in 1619. It encouraged members of the diaspora to visit Ghana, explore its historical sites, learn about its heritage and establish stronger connections with the country.

The campaign attracted international attention and brought thousands of visitors to Ghana, many of whom participated in concerts, cultural festivals, tourism activities and community events.

Although December celebrations existed in Ghana long before 2019, the Year of Return gave the season a stronger international identity.

The momentum continued in 2020 with the Beyond the Return initiative, which sought to build lasting relationships between Ghana and the diaspora beyond the initial homecoming campaign.

Today, Detty December has become a major feature of Ghana’s tourism and entertainment calendar.

The word Detty is a playful variation of dirty, representing the carefree atmosphere, energetic parties and freedom to enjoy the festive season.

Accra is usually at the centre of the celebrations, but other destinations, including Kumasi, Cape Coast, Elmina and parts of the Volta Region, also attract visitors looking for entertainment, history, culture and relaxation.

The Occasions That Make December Special in Ghana

December is filled with different celebrations, each bringing its own traditions, activities and meaning, beginning with Christmas preparations and the much-anticipated homecoming of Ghanaians living abroad.

As December approaches, the atmosphere in Ghana begins to change.

Shopping centres, markets, supermarkets and commercial streets become busier as families prepare for Christmas. People purchase new clothes, shoes, food items, decorations and gifts for their loved ones.

For many households, Christmas preparations begin weeks before December 25.

One of the most noticeable features of the season is the return of Ghanaians living abroad. Many travel home from the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, Germany and other countries to spend the holidays with relatives and friends.

Their arrival often brings excitement to families who may not have seen one another for months or even years.

It is also a period when hometowns become lively as people travel from Accra and other major cities to reunite with relatives.

Christmas Eve – December 24

Christmas Eve is one of the most anticipated nights of the festive season.

On December 24, many Christian families attend evening church services, carol concerts and special worship programmes in preparation for the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ.

Churches are often decorated with Christmas trees, lights, stars and other festive ornaments.

For some families, Christmas Eve is also a time to prepare meals, wrap presents and make final arrangements for the following day’s celebrations.

In some communities, children and young people participate in carol singing, while others visit friends and relatives.

The night carries a special feeling of expectation as families prepare to celebrate Christmas Day.

Christmas Day – December 25

Christmas Day is one of the most important celebrations in Ghana, particularly for Christians.

Observed on December 25, the day commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ and is marked by church services, family gatherings, gift-giving and special meals.

Many people begin the day by attending church, where congregations sing Christmas hymns, listen to sermons and celebrate the religious significance of the occasion.

After church, families gather at home to enjoy meals prepared specially for the holiday.

Popular Ghanaian Christmas dishes include jollof rice, fried rice, chicken, goat meat, fufu with soup, banku and assorted local delicacies.

For children, Christmas is particularly exciting because of the expectation of new clothes, toys, shoes and other presents.

In some communities, children also move from house to house, greeting neighbours and enjoying the festive atmosphere.

Beyond the food and gifts, Christmas remains an important opportunity for families to reconnect, settle misunderstandings and show love to one another.

Boxing Day – December 26

The celebrations continue on December 26 with Boxing Day, another public holiday in Ghana.

Traditionally, Boxing Day is associated with giving gifts, particularly to people who provide services and those in need.

Historically, the occasion is linked to the practice of giving Christmas boxes containing gifts, money or food to servants, workers and less privileged people.

In modern Ghana, however, Boxing Day has become another opportunity for relaxation and entertainment.

Many families visit beaches, recreational centres, parks and tourist attractions. Others organise picnics, attend parties or continue visiting relatives.

Popular beaches in Accra and other coastal communities often attract large crowds as people enjoy music, food, games and outdoor activities.

For those who prefer a quieter celebration, Boxing Day is also a time to rest after the excitement of Christmas Day.

 The Detty December Concerts, Festivals and Beach Parties

As Christmas approaches and passes, Ghana’s entertainment industry enters one of its busiest periods.

Concerts, music festivals, comedy shows, fashion exhibitions, art displays and nightlife events take over major entertainment venues.

Accra becomes particularly active, with local and international musicians performing for audiences made up of Ghanaians and visitors from abroad.

The season also provides opportunities for Ghanaian musicians to connect with international audiences and showcase the country’s music.

Events such as AfroFuture, formerly known as Afrochella, have helped promote Ghanaian and wider African music, fashion, food and culture to international visitors.

Beach parties, pool parties and outdoor concerts also become popular, particularly among young people.

Beyond entertainment, the season provides business opportunities for hotels, restaurants, transport operators, event organisers, vendors, tour guides and other tourism-related businesses.

For many businesses, December is one of the most commercially active periods of the year.

Traditional Masquerade Festivals and Community Celebrations

While modern music concerts attract considerable attention, traditional celebrations remain an important part of Ghana’s festive identity.

One notable example is the masquerade tradition, particularly the Fancy Dress Festival in Winneba in the Central Region.

The festival features groups dressed in colourful costumes, masks and creative outfits, accompanied by music, dancing and energetic street performances.

Different groups compete through their performances, costumes and creativity, attracting residents and visitors.

The celebration reflects a cultural tradition that has developed over generations and combines local creativity with historical influences.

Other communities also organise traditional gatherings, durbars and cultural activities during the festive season, allowing visitors to experience Ghana beyond its nightlife.

 December 31 – Watchnight Services and Crossover Celebrations

One of the most significant nights in Ghana’s December calendar is December 31, popularly known as the crossover night.

For many Christians, the night is dedicated to prayer, thanksgiving, worship and reflection as they prepare to enter a new year.

Churches across the country organise special watchnight services, bringing congregations together to thank God for protection, blessings and the experiences of the outgoing year.

Some churches hold extended prayer sessions, praise and worship, testimonies and messages about the year ahead.

As midnight approaches, congregations count down the final seconds of the year before welcoming January 1 with prayers, singing, dancing and celebrations.

For others, December 31 is an opportunity to attend parties, concerts, family gatherings and fireworks displays.

In Accra and other major cities, entertainment venues organise special crossover events that attract large audiences.

The night represents a transition between two years and gives many people an opportunity to reflect on their achievements, disappointments, lessons and expectations.

New Year’s Day – January 1

New Year’s Day is celebrated on January 1 and marks the beginning of a new year according to the Gregorian calendar.

In Ghana, the day is generally associated with joy, reflection, thanksgiving and fresh beginnings.

After the excitement of the crossover celebrations, many people attend church services to commit the new year to God’s hands.

Others spend the day with family and friends, visit relatives, attend social gatherings or simply rest after the busy festive season.

For many Ghanaians, January 1 also represents an opportunity to establish new goals, make important decisions and leave behind habits or experiences they do not wish to carry into the new year.

It is a time when people exchange messages of goodwill, wishing one another prosperity, good health, peace and success.

Although the celebration takes place worldwide, the way people welcome the new year differs according to their cultures, beliefs and traditions.

The History Behind January 1 as New Year’s Day

Although January 1 is now widely recognised as the beginning of the year, this was not always the case.

The ancient Roman calendar originally began the year in March. However, in 153 BC, Roman officials began their consular year on January 1, bringing the date closer to the beginning of the calendar year.

The month of January takes its name from Janus, the Roman god associated with beginnings, transitions, doorways and endings.

Janus is traditionally represented with two faces: one looking backwards and the other looking forward.

This image has become a powerful symbol of the New Year because it represents the opportunity to reflect on the past while looking towards the future.

Over the centuries, different parts of Europe observed different dates as the beginning of the year, with some Christian communities using dates associated with important religious celebrations.

The adoption of January 1 was gradually reinforced through calendar reforms.

In 1582, Pope Gregory XIII introduced the Gregorian calendar, which corrected inaccuracies in the earlier Julian calendar.

Great Britain and its colonies officially adopted the Gregorian calendar in 1752, establishing January 1 as the beginning of the legal year.

Today, the Gregorian calendar is the most widely used civil calendar around the world.

 January 2 – An Additional Day of Celebration in Ghana

For many Ghanaians, the New Year celebrations do not necessarily end on January 1.

January 2 is also recognised as an additional public holiday in Ghana when it falls under the statutory holiday arrangement for New Year’s Day.

When January 1 falls on a weekend, the following working day may be observed as the holiday in accordance with Ghana’s public holiday arrangements.

This gives people another opportunity to rest, visit family members, enjoy recreational activities and prepare to return to their normal routines.

For those who have travelled to their hometowns, the additional day can also provide time to make their journey back to work and school preparations.

It offers a gradual transition from the excitement of the festive season into the responsibilities of a new year.

The Tradition of New Year’s Resolutions

Another important feature of New Year’s Day is the tradition of making resolutions.

Although many people associate the practice with modern self-improvement culture, its history stretches back thousands of years.

The ancient Babylonians are often credited with one of the earliest recorded New Year resolution traditions, making promises during their New Year celebrations to repay debts and return borrowed items.

Their celebrations were associated with the beginning of the agricultural year and the festival of Akitu.

Today, the tradition has evolved into a personal commitment to improve different aspects of life.

Common New Year’s resolutions include saving more money, exercising regularly, eating healthier, improving relationships, pursuing education, starting businesses and developing new skills.

In Ghana, some people also use the beginning of the year to set financial targets, plan major purchases, establish career goals and make decisions about their families.

However, while resolutions are easy to make, maintaining them requires discipline, consistency and realistic planning.

How December and New Year Celebrations Benefit Ghana’s Economy

Beyond the entertainment and cultural significance, the festive season has become an important economic opportunity for Ghana.

The arrival of international visitors increases demand for accommodation, transportation, restaurants, shopping, entertainment and tourism services.

Hotels, guesthouses, short-stay apartments and restaurants often experience increased patronage during the period.

Local fashion designers, tailors, photographers, makeup artists, event planners, musicians, DJs, food vendors and small businesses also benefit from the increased spending.

The season provides a platform for Ghanaian creative professionals to showcase their work to international audiences.

It also encourages visitors to explore historical and cultural destinations, including Cape Coast Castle, Elmina Castle, Kakum National Park and other attractions.

The growing popularity of Detty December has therefore helped position Ghana as an important destination for cultural tourism and entertainment.

However, the increasing number of visitors also creates challenges, including traffic congestion, rising accommodation prices, pressure on public infrastructure, waste management concerns and the need for improved safety and event organisation.

Managing these challenges will be important if Ghana wants to sustain the growth of the festive season.

From Christmas to the New Year: A Season of Togetherness, Reflection and New Beginnings

What makes December and the beginning of January special in Ghana is not simply the number of events taking place but the different experiences that bring people together.

For some, it is about returning home after spending years abroad. For others, it is about attending concerts, visiting beaches, exploring cultural attractions or enjoying traditional meals with loved ones.

For Christians, the period carries deep religious significance, beginning with the celebration of Christ’s birth and continuing through thanksgiving and prayers for the new year.

For businesses and creative professionals, it is an opportunity to work, earn income and reach new audiences.

And for families, it remains one of the most important periods to reconnect and create memories.

From the first Christmas decorations and December homecomings to Christmas Day, Boxing Day, crossover services and New Year’s celebrations, Ghana has developed a festive culture that stretches beyond a single holiday.

Ultimately, December and New Year represent more than the closing of one calendar year and the beginning of another. They offer an opportunity to celebrate Ghanaian identity, appreciate the people around us, reflect on the past and look forward to the possibilities of the future.