WatsUp TV CEO Buys First GH¢10,000 Ticket as Guinness Ghana DJ Awards 2026 Powered by Smirnoff Opens Sales
Abdoulaye Traore popularly known as ABD Traore, Chief Executive Officer of WatsUp TV, has become the first person to purchase a premium GH¢10,000 ticket for the Guinness Ghana DJ Awards powered by Smirnoff, following the official launch of the 2026 edition at Eden Gardens Hotel, the event's Official Hospitality Partner.
The symbolic purchase officially opened ticket sales for the awards, underscoring WatsUp TV's continued support for Ghana's entertainment industry and one of Africa's biggest celebrations of DJ culture.
The launch ceremony, which was broadcast live on Joy Prime TV, the Official Media Partner of the awards, brought together DJs, entertainment industry stakeholders, sponsors, media personalities and music enthusiasts to unveil the roadmap for the 2026 season.
Delivering the opening address, Awards Board Chairman, Mr. Ahuma Bosco Ocansey, reiterated the awards' commitment to celebrating excellence, innovation and professionalism within Ghana's DJ industry while highlighting the growing impact of DJs on the country's entertainment ecosystem.
Representing title sponsor Guinness Ghana Breweries PLC, Papa Osei, Acting Marketing Manager, Beers and RTDs, reaffirmed the company's commitment to supporting DJ culture through Smirnoff.
"At Guinness Ghana, through Smirnoff, the world's number one Vodka, we are passionate about creating bold experiences that bring people together. We understand that behind every unforgettable night is a DJ who knows how to read the crowd, create energy and turn moments into memories. That is why supporting DJs and the culture they inspire remains an important part of our brand's journey.
As we launch the 2026 season and build up to the 15th anniversary of the Ghana DJ Awards, we invite every fan to come along for the journey, from Pub Fest, Ghana DJ Clinic and the nationwide activations to the spectacular awards night. There is so much to look forward to, and Smirnoff is proud to be at the center of the experience."
The launch also introduced a new award category, Digital DJ of the Year, which will recognize DJs making outstanding contributions through digital platforms, livestreams, online mixes and content creation, reflecting the continued evolution of the profession.
Entertainment formed a major part of the event, with thrilling performances from DJ Raya, DJ Wallpaper, DJ Juicy, Viq and DJ Onaapo, a talented DJ living with a disability, whose performance earned admiration from guests and reinforced the awards' commitment to celebrating diversity and inclusion within Ghana's DJ community.
Another memorable highlight saw media personality AJ Sarpong, winner of the Best Dressed award at the 2025 Ghana DJ Awards, officially receive her prize; a luxurious stay at Aqua Safari Resort.
Fans also received exciting news ahead of this year's voting. Courtesy of Smartcast by Nalo Solutions, the highest voter during the 2026 awards season will win a brand-new 55-inch television set, with shopping vouchers and several other prizes also up for grabs.
Beyond the awards night, the Guinness Ghana DJ Awards roadmap will feature flagship events including Pub Fest, Ghana DJ Clinic, and nationwide activations expected to engage more than 35,000 participants across Ghana.
The awards ceremony itself will be broadcast live to an estimated audience of over 17 million viewers across 48 African countries, reinforcing the Ghana DJ Awards' reputation as one of the continent's premier entertainment platforms.
As the 2026 season begins, ABD Traore's landmark ticket purchase sets the pace for what promises to be another unforgettable journey celebrating the DJs, brands and fans driving Ghana's music and nightlife culture.
