The Upper East Region of Ghana is experiencing a renaissance in nightlife and entertainment, driven by the visionary efforts of Bombande Edmund, owner of Bombs Events.
Situated at the historic Catering Rest House, Bombs Events has rekindled leisure and joy in a region once celebrated for its rich cultural and entertainment heritage.
The Golden Era of the Catering Rest House
Decades ago, the Upper East Region was synonymous with vibrant entertainment. The Uppers International Dance Band, led by the iconic Christy Azumah, attracted music lovers from across Ghana and neighboring countries to the Catering Rest House.
Built during the Acheampong regime, the Rest House hosted notable figures, including Burkina Faso’s revolutionary leader, Thomas Sankara. Its concerts and events turned it into a hub for workers and tourists alike.
However, the glory days faded by the late 1990s, leaving a void in the region’s nightlife and entertainment scene.
The Decline of Entertainment
The collapse of the Catering Rest House and the disbandment of the Uppers International Dance Band plunged the region into an entertainment drought. By the early 2000s, this decline contributed to the region’s unpopularity among residents and professionals, with some government workers and medical practitioners refusing postings due to the lack of leisure options.
“I used not to like the region because anytime you came for holidays, you were limited in places to cool off or relax,” said Richard, a Talensi native based in Accra.
Residents and visitors yearned for a revival of the region’s once-thriving cultural scene.
Bombande Edmund’s Visionary Revival
Determined to restore the region’s cultural vibrancy, Bombande Edmund invested over GH¢2.5 million to transform the decaying Catering Rest House into Bombs Events.
Equipped with modern facilities, including a VIP nightclub, conference halls, and hosting spaces, the venue is now a premier entertainment destination.
Despite skepticism from friends and family about the feasibility of such an investment, Bombande remained resolute. “Many advised against it, saying the region had lost its love for entertainment, but I believed otherwise,” he said.
His vision extends beyond profit: Bombande aims to create a space that brings joy and relaxation to the people of the Upper East Region. “Seeing people enjoy themselves and marvel at the beauty of the place keeps me going,” he added.
Challenges and Triumphs
While Bombs Events has become a popular weekend destination, challenges persist. “The main issue is that people often eat and drink elsewhere before coming to dance. Although the place is full every Friday and Saturday, sales remain low,” Bombande lamented.
To sustain operations, Bombande employs 30 workers, all from the region, and continually renovates the facility. Recent upgrades, including pool and kitchen refurbishments, cost GH¢200,000.
Patrons’ Praise
For patrons like Dominic, a Navrongo native, Bombs Events has set a new standard. “The nightclub is top-notch, and I appreciate the strict no-under-18 policy. The security is excellent,” he noted.
A Nod to History: Christy Azumah and the Uppers International Dance Band
Entertainment in the Upper East would be incomplete without mentioning Christy Azumah, affectionately called the “Lady of Africa.” Her timeless classic, Naam, featured in the movie Bamako, immortalized her legacy.
Under her leadership, the Uppers International Dance Band produced hits like Din Ya Sugri, Ja Wenle, and Mu Baida Girma, making the Upper East a destination for music enthusiasts from Togo, Burkina Faso, and beyond.
The Road Ahead
Bombs Events represents more than a revival of entertainment—it symbolizes hope for a region seeking to reclaim its cultural and economic vibrancy.
However, the success of such ventures hinges on patronage and community support. Bombande’s dream is clear: to restore the Upper East Region’s reputation as a hub of joy and relaxation. “If patronage improves, we can achieve even more and make the region a must-visit destination for entertainment,” he said.
As the Upper East Region dances to a new tune, Bombs Events stands as a testament to resilience, innovation, and the power of entertainment to unite and uplift a community.
Source: A1Radioonline.Com|101.1 MHZ|Moses Apiah|Bolgatanga
