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Welcome to Round V: All Around the World of A Star is Born. My name is Kendall F. Person and I will be your host. Each of the remaining nominees was asked to host a nation and deliver a performance either in imitation of or honor of their Arts Culture. Opening up tonight was Anew(Duo) hosting the USA. And next up is Charles Okpere hosting Ghana.

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My version of events from the past in the gold coast; orchestrated by a leader that was never preoccupied, and completely understood what it meant to free a people from a prison without bars. This might be presented with an undertone of plenty sentiments but I bet this should be a complete example for other ‘recuperating’ African countries. Many African rulers, dictators, head-of-state or whatever you choose to describe them; have come and gone. Few; worth remembering, while others, I would act like they never existed . Jerry .J Rawlings of Ghana remain one of the few past African leaders worth a resounding discuss. Having a refined socio-political orientation and advocacy of what leadership should be all about; he helped changed the socio-political and leadership landscape of the gold coast; with a style that brought the whole of Africa to a stand-still. Prior to J. Rawlings rule, Ghana’s post – independence history was practically characterized by long periods of military rule, marked by gross human rights abuses. Jerry J. Rawlings was instrumental in the two most ruthless and notable coups of Ghana; as he felt the post – independent Ghana had become a period of post – independent disillusionment occasioned by social system inefficiency, corruption, rot and the neglect attitude of the officials to the sufferings of the common man. As this period of post – independent disenchantment progressed, J Rawlings, a lieutenant in the airforce and a militant populist along with other young military officers became distressed by the perceived corruption of the officials and drastic declines in the Ghanaian economy. When the running regime legalized political parties early in 1979,the young enigmatic J. Rawlings emerged as a spokesman for a new populism that was sweeping Ghana at the time. He gained a wide following among the people, among the common man. The regime of course found reasons to silence him. He was clamped to jail. But he did not languish for long as his tactical confederates in the military secured his release. After Rawlings release; through a radio station announced he was forming an armed forces revolutionary council to oust the corrupt and ineffective regime. The ever enigmatic and controversial Jerry Rawlings quickly abolished all political parties and established a new one which he headed. For years, he made Ghana a one party state. This was to cut all Unnecessary distractions in his attempt at rebuilding the country. However, not sooner than later, he was accused of dictatorship but I guess his persona, would have being the leverage that made the international community buy the idea of his “dictatorship”. As a humble, sincere and charismatic leader who listens to the voice of people, he set about returning the country to complete decorum, something the ‘Westernized West’ would prefer to call democracy. Rawlings instituted people oriented programmed. Improved human rights record Guaranteed the freedom of expression, as well as the freedom of press. Ultimately bringing peace to Ghana and was an example to the whole Africa. There was and still is the existence of civil liberty groups in Ghana and all these was occasioned by a people friendly president . More remarking of Rawlings leadership credentials, was that, all his successes came at a period when other African countries were grappling with civil war, political killings, military coup and counter coup, ethnic marginalisation, endless protest, Corruption of the highest order, power drunk office holders and their senseless hold to power. Rawlings leadership skills was one big example to all African leaders. He represented a breed of socially conscious patriot A political crusader whose commitment to humanity and offering of sincere leadership is unrivaled. Thus, it can be said, that the history of modern Ghana politics is the history of Jerry J Rawlings legacy and footprints for all erstwhile impoverished African country.

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Tribute to Nigeria by Kelly Lewis
Art by Issac Willie

Oh Nigeria, you’ve taught me to believe in something much bigger than me, you brought the meaning of community and wealth by investing in family. The descendants of the Mother Land continue to rise despite the teardrops and bloodshed spelt on fertile soil during the darkest of times its people prosper and shine. Fasting for human rights and studying many lessons throughout long days and nights for a chance that might unite the world in peace against the political fights. May the “Giant of Africa,” forever be blessed with bountiful resources and beautiful people adorned in colorful attire that compliments bright, welcoming smiles.  Everlasting is the ancient works of art that paved the way to creative starts impressing upon us with permanent, influential marks of literature, proverbs, poetry, and music spreading the word. Oh Nigeria, thank you for delivering personal ties and bringing strong values into my life, which allowed me to see the world through another pair of eyes with no lies…as it is.
Ladies & Gentlemen, we are proud to present the 2015 The Neighborhood Award – our highest honor.

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