NEWS

14 Americans test positive for coronavirus after evacuation from quarantined cruise ship

Published

6 years ago

February 17, 2020

Fourteen Americans who were among the hundreds evacuated from a quarantined cruise ship off Yokohama, Japan Sunday have tested positive for the novel coronavirus that has claimed more than 1,700 lives in a growing outbreak in China.

More than 300 U.S. citizens and their immediate family members who had been passengers on the Diamond Princess cruise ship were taken off the vessel and repatriated back to the U.S. on two charter flights that landed at Travis Air Force Base in California and Lackland Air Force Base in Texas overnight, according to the Associated Press.

In a statement released early Monday, the U.S. State Department spokesperson said American evacuees were all deemed asymptomatic and fit to fly before being processed for evacuation.

But during the evacuation process, after passengers had left the ship and gone to the airport, U.S. officials received notice that 14 passengers, who had been tested two to three days earlier, had tested positive for COVID-19, the disease caused by the novel coronavirus.

“These individuals were moved in the most expeditious and safe manner to a specialized containment area on the evacuation aircraft to isolate them in accordance with standard protocols,” the State Department’s spokesperson said in the statement.

The spokesperson said the State Department made the decision to allow the 14 individuals, who were in isolation, separated from other passengers and continued to be asymptomatic, to remain on the aircraft to complete the evacuation process after a consultation with health officials.

The Diamond Princess been on quarantine since Feb. 3 after a man who disembarked in Hong Kong was diagnosed with the virus.

More than 1,200 people on the cruise ship, which had 3,700 passengers and crew on board, have been tested since the quarantine began — 355 of them have tested positive for the virus, including some Americans. Japan’s health ministry confirmed 70 additional coronavirus cases on board the ship Sunday.

The State Department said all passengers evacuated Sunday were closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the flight and any who become symptomatic were to be moved to a specialized containment area.

“Passengers that develop symptoms in flight and those with positive test results will remain isolated on the flights and will be transported to an appropriate location for continued isolation and care,” the department’s spokesperson said, without elaborating on what that location could be.

Hundreds of Americans were evacuated from Wuhan, the center of the epidemic in China’s Hubei province, aboard charter flights in late January and earlier this month. They were also subjected to a mandatory 14-day quarantine at military bases upon arrival in the U.S.

Canada, Australia, Hong Kong and Italy are also making efforts to evacuate their citizens from the quarantined cruise ship.

MUSIC

Meet Big Ken – The Afro beats Sensation Master Mind Behind the epic singles ( Coco baby, No Face , Cruise, Spiritual Frequencies & Alakija

Published

2 weeks ago

July 7, 2026

Baba Blow

Meet Big Ken – The Afro beats Sensation Master Mind Behind the epic singles ( Coco baby, No Face , Cruise, Spiritual Frequencies & Alakija

Nigerian Afrobeats singer and songwriter Big Ken whose known offstage as Kenneth Afure Okudi, releases hits debut singles “Coco Baby” “No Face” “Cruise” “Spiritual Frequencies” and Alakija” the fast rising afrobeats singer has being gaining attention. This release has proven his dominance and has amassed millions of streams across all platforms. He’s also focused on his next level of success.

GET ALL SINGLES BELOW

NO FACE

COCO BABY

NEWS

Becky Slim Crowned AFROMAICA June Edition Dancehall Queen

Published

3 weeks ago

July 1, 2026

Baba Blow

Becky Slim Crowned AFROMAICA June Edition Dancehall Queen

AFROMAICA which is Nigeria’s Number 1 monthly urban reggae dancehall party delivered another unforgettable celebration of reggae and dancehall culture on june 25th 2026 as Emediong Emmanuel Edet, popularly known as Becky Slim won the cash prize of #500,000, she emerged the overall winner after an outstanding performance that earned her the admiration of both the organizers and the audiences at Club Plan B by Carabana. Afromaica happens every last thursday of the month at same venue.

Representing Kenya also know as Slim Shady showcased remarkable stage presence, confidence, and authentic dancehall energy throughout the competition. Her captivating performance distinguished her from a lineup of talented contestants, securing her the coveted Dancehall Queen title in what proved to be one of the most competitive editions of the event.

The June edition featured an impressive display of reggae and dancehall artistry, highlighting the depth of emerging talent across the African music scene. Contestants thrilled fans with energetic performances and a passion for preserving the vibrant spirit of the genre.

Adding to the excitement of the event recorded the presence of several notable entertainment personalities who came out to support the movement. Popular Facebook content creator MC Mbakara, respected reggae artist Tossy Young, and dancehall heavyweight Bclean were all in attendance, lending their support to AFROMAICA‘s vision of promoting reggae and urban dancehall music while encouraging the next generation of performers.

Their presence further demonstrated the growing influence of AFROMAICA as a platform that continues to unite entertainers, content creators, artists, and music lovers under one cultural movement dedicated to the advancement of reggae and urban dancehall across Africa.

The event is proudly powered by Spartan Media Ltd and Club Plan B, with valuable support from Element Irish Whiskey, TM Luxury Apartments, Aurum Trading Exchange, Jogab Logistics, The Cove, and Isno Hotels. Their partnership played a significant role in delivering a well-organized and memorable experience for contestants, guests, and fans.

As AFROMAICA continues to expand its impact on the African entertainment landscape, anticipation is already building for the next edition, where more gifted dance and lyrical artists will bring mind blowing performances while celebrating the rich heritage and enduring influence of reggae and urban dancehall music.

Congratulations to Emediong Emmanuel Edet (@Beckslim001 on tiktok ) on her well-deserved victory at the AFROMAICA Dancehall Queen June Edition. Her success stands as a testament to hard work, talent, and dedication, inspiring aspiring artists to pursue excellence while keeping the spirit of reggae and urban dancehall alive.

See Exclusive photos below

NEWS

Popular Nigerian Singer Ceena Gears Up for October Release as He Joins Forces with Speroachbeatz (Watch Video)

Published

1 month ago

June 17, 2026

Baba Blow

Popular Nigerian Singer Ceena Gears Up for October Release as He Joins Forces with Speroachbeatz

Nigerian music sensation Ceena has once again set tongues wagging after being spotted in the studio with legendary producer Speroachbeatz, fueling anticipation for what could become one of the biggest records of 2026.

Although details surrounding the project remain under wraps, including the official title and release date, sources close to the camp reveal that the highly anticipated collaboration is expected to arrive in October 2026.

Known for his consistency, creativity, and ability to deliver captivating records, Ceena appears determined to elevate his career to a new heights. The singer reportedly disclosed that the forthcoming track is designed to serve as an anthem that listeners from all walks of life can relate to and embrace.

The studio session has already generated excitement among fans and industry stakeholders, especially considering Speroachbeatz’s impressive track record of producing chart-topping hits for some of Africa’s biggest stars like Davido.

With Ceena’s growing influence and Speroachbeatz’s production genius, expectations are high that this collaboration will make a significant impact upon release.

As the countdown to October begins, music lovers will be eagerly awaiting further updates on what promises to be a spectacular hit project from the talented singer.

See video teaser below;