Organisers officially counted 1,837 participants, falling short of the current record of 1,941 people set in 2017 at Lake Epecuén. Although no Guinness adjudicators were present, the event followed internal counting protocols supported by photographic and audiovisual documentation. Festival organiser Griselda Cuello said the final number may have been higher, noting that some people entered the water without wristbands and could not be counted.

Beyond the record attempt, the festival featured live music , DJ performances and food stalls, drawing locals and tourists alike. Organised by La Escuelita Cultural Space and Public Library with support from the local government, the event highlighted Mar Chiquita as a unique natural attraction and reinforced Miramar de Ansenuza’s growing profile as a destination for community-driven tourism initiatives.

The display includes embroideries created by 200 artisans from all 32 federal entities, using a wide range of techniques such as cross stitch, drawn thread and pedal loom weaving. Each piece incorporates multiple colours and reflects both ancestral and contemporary textile traditions.

Every state contributed designs linked to local identity, from urban symbols like the Mexico City metro, axolotls and lucha libre masks, to animals regarded as sacred by indigenous communities in regions such as Nayarit.

Guinness World Records validated the exhibition as a first-of-its-kind achievement, confirming that it met all criteria before awarding the title. Organisers said the recognition gives the initiative international visibility, and authorities are considering preserving the entire collection as a single permanent installation at the cultural complex.

“This peaceful protest is important because it bypasses all differences. It triggers humanity and reminds us of our shared responsibility to protect nature,” she told local media.

Her supporters gathered throughout the challenge, encouraging her when fatigue set in and helping to cover the costs required for Guinness World Records officials to observe the attempt. At one point, Muthoni nearly fell asleep but was kept alert by those cheering her on.

She said the protest was aimed at emphasising the growing risks posed by climate change and the continued loss of forest cover in Kenya and across Africa. Despite contributing relatively little to global carbon emissions, Africans are among the most vulnerable to climate-related shocks such as droughts and extreme weather.

She explained that her black clothing represented African resilience and protest , green stood for regeneration and reforestation, red symbolised indigenous resistance, and blue symbolised the struggle to protect water sources and oceans.

Field teams began with standard botanical documentation, which included mapping the vine’s footprint, photographing growth form, and recording dimensions such as height, basal diameter, and girth. Following this, researchers turned to ring analysis.

Deputy Director of the Institute of Fruit Trees at the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Dr Wang Haibo, told Guinness World Records that finding a wild grapevine over four centuries old at an altitude of 2,400 metres is a testament to nature’s patience and life’s resilience.

Guinness World Records certified the vine in September, after reviewing the scientific documentation, site details, and methodological notes, and confirming it to be 416 years old.

“The idea of daring to be different drove me,” Tacha told the Guinness World Records team. “Makeup has always been my safe space, it’s how I express myself.”

Each makeover followed strict criteria, participants received full facial treatments, including foundation, concealer, blush, two eyeshadows, mascara, lip liner and gloss, finishing powder, and eyebrow styling. Tacha’s accomplishment surpassed the previous 24-hour record of 100 makeovers, held by Mary Yongai of Sierra Leone.

Tacha recalled her childhood fascination with makeup, often clashing with her mother, a devout church worker who disapproved of her passion.

“She’d throw my products away, and I’d save up to buy them again,” she said. “That pattern taught me persistence to keep fighting for what I love.”

Tacha says it’s a message of resilience, creativity, and empowerment for African women.

“This record was born from that same spirit, resilience and the courage to stand out. I wanted to show that Nigerian women can achieve anything they put their minds to, that creativity is powerful, and that African women deserve global recognition,” she said.

Tacha now joins the over 40 Nigerian Guinness World Record holders, making history in various fields.

“This initiative is about more than just swapping clothes,” Gomez told Viory. “We have the Atacama Desert clothed, not in bloom. This is a call to action against textile waste, which pollutes our environment . Through exchange, repair, and transformation, we’re creating new ways to connect, physically and emotionally,” she added.

Gomez referred to the alarming situation in the Atacama Desert, where an estimated 30,000 tonnes of discarded clothing and textile waste accumulate, a byproduct of the global fast fashion industry.

Guinness World Records adjudicator Natalia Ramirez praised the initiative, describing it as having “an extremely important social impact.”

“The organisers highlighted the issue of overconsumption and promoted circular fashion to extend the life of garments, an idea that resonates globally, not just in Chile,” Ramirez noted.

According to government data, Chileans consume an average of 32 kilograms of textiles per person annually, contributing to more than 572,000 tonnes of textile waste each year.

“Today, I set a new record by pulling a 700-ton ship, surpassing the previous Ukrainian record of 614 tons. Thanks to God and the people who stood by me,” Kabonga said after completing the attempt.

Guinness World Records officials were present to verify the achievement.

“Today, Captain Ashraf Kabonga pulled a ship, and then two ships weighing a total of 700 tons, using only his teeth,” said Guinness adjudicator Mohamed Elnakeeb. “He accomplished the feat in two attempts, setting a new world record that no one has ever achieved before,” he added.

This isn’t Kabonga’s first time making headlines for his superhuman strength. The Egyptian wrestler already holds records for pulling the heaviest locomotive, a 279-ton train, and a subway car.

The 28-year-old chef, who made global headlines in 2023 for her Guinness World Record cook-a-thon, said she meticulously planned this new challenge to stay true to the authentic taste of Nigerian jollof rice.

The record-breaking attempt required staggering quantities of ingredients: 4,000 kilograms of basmati rice, 500 cartons of tomato paste, and 600 kilograms of onions.

Noting that, “The idea of painting with both my hand and foot at the same time started in 2019. I had a performance exactly a month later. When the idea came to me, I began asking people around me for their opinions, and they kept telling me it was impossible. They kept debating with me, saying that, scientifically, it's not possible to achieve muscular and mental coordination - that the brain can't make two decisions at once. They said it was nearly impossible,” he told Viory.

Bebaoui further noted that he pursued his vision through persistence and training. “I never believed it was impossible. When God inspired me with this idea, I felt I could achieve it. However, when I began practising, I encountered numerous challenges and sometimes felt overwhelmed.”

Videos from his performances show Bebaoui balancing on one leg while painting with his foot and hand simultaneously, creating two works of art in reverse. He has painted renowned world personalities including footballer Mohammed Salah.

Speaking on his future endeavours, the artist says his ambitions go beyond his current achievements. “My ambitions in the coming period are to apply to the Guinness World Records as the first artist in the world to paint with both his hand and foot at the same time - as if they were two completely different individuals, working in reverse, and within a record time. This is the approach I plan to take for my Guinness application. There will be a lot of diverse work, not just with the hand and foot - I will continue to develop myself further, and I won't stop at a certain stage. I hope to register this achievement in the Guinness World Records.”

Hernández completed the 3.84-kilometre swim in 1 hour, 6 minutes, and 15 seconds, beating the previous women’s world record set by Poland’s Izabela Babica, who swam 3.54 kilometres in Lake Strzeszynskie earlier this year at 4.02°C.

The Chilean swimmer began her attempt at 9:44 a.m., braving icy waters where the feels-like temperature was just 3°C. Her body temperature quickly dropped, and by the time she left the water, she was in hypothermia, with a core temperature of only 31°C.

Her achievement comes only a month after Hernández made headlines with her historic double crossing of the English Channel, swimming for more than 27 continuous hours.

The Ice Mermaid already holds three Guinness World Records: the fastest ice mile and longest swim at Cape Horn in 2022, and two Antarctic records in 2023 for the longest polar swim and as the only woman to complete a 2.5-kilometre swim in Antarctic waters.

The current record was set in 2014 by Canadian powerlifter Kevin Fast, who pulled 15 vehicles, each weighing around 850 - 900 kg. For nearly 12 years, that benchmark remained untouched until now.

"Kevin Fast set the record in 2014. Since then, no one could break it for nearly 12 years. Yet only me, the Egyptian, succeeded," Kabonga declared. "God willing, I will submit all the video footage, photos, and links to the Guinness World Records website to document this great event."

Cheered on by an enthusiastic crowd, Kabonga dragged the line of vehicles a full 10 metres, surpassing the minimum requirement for the record.

"Thanks to God, I managed to pull the vehicles for 10 metres. I can pull for 11 or even 12 metres, but I prefer not to be less than 10," he added with a smile.

If confirmed by Guinness World Records, Kabonga will become the new world record holder for the most vehicles pulled by an individual.

The event was part of the company’s 80th anniversary celebrations and aimed to showcase its long-standing tradition in the dairy industry.

In order to qualify, participants were required to taste all three cheeses : Gruyere, mature Sopó cheese, and Argovia. Each cheese was chosen to represent a different part of Alpina’s history and its connection to Colombian and European dairy traditions.

The previous record had been set in Australia in 2019, with exactly 1,000 participants.

Alpina’s event surpassed that number, even after 11 people were disqualified under Guinness World Records rules. The attempt was overseen by an official adjudicator, who confirmed that all guidelines and health standards had been met.

Organisers said the tasting brought together families, cheese experts and members of the local community in a celebration of tradition and teamwork. Over 30 Alpina staff members helped coordinate the event.

Alpina says the record is not only a tribute to its roots in Sopó but also a symbol of how food can connect people and promote cultural pride.

The company added that the milestone reflects its broader mission to support Colombia’s economic, social and nutritional development.

Across the globe, several projects have set remarkable benchmarks by achieving rapid completion without compromising on quality.

Drawing insights from Building Radar and other reputable sources, let's delve into the top five fastest construction projects that have redefined the industry's capabilities.

Shelby County Habitat for Humanity Home, Alabama, USA

Completion Time:  3 hours, 26 minutes, and 34 seconds

Year:  2002

This single-family home in Shelby County holds the Guinness World Record for the fastest house ever built. Constructed as part of a charity initiative by Habitat for Humanity, the 1,200-square-foot house was completed in just over three hours, showcasing the potential of prefabricated construction techniques.

Heijmans ONE, Amsterdam, Netherlands

Completion Time:  24 hours

Year:  2014

Dutch construction company Heijmans developed the Heijmans ONE—a fully functional, energy-efficient home that can be installed in just 24 hours. Designed primarily for young professionals, this modular house includes a living room, kitchen, bathroom, and bedroom, all built off-site and assembled quickly on location.

Instacon Tower, Mohali, India

Completion Time:  48 hours

Year:  2012

The 10-storey Instacon Tower was erected in just two days using advanced pre-engineered building technology. This rapid construction demonstrated India's growing prowess in adopting innovative building methods.

T30 Hotel Tower, Changsha, China

Completion Time: 15 days

Year: 2011

Standing at 30 stories, the T30 Hotel Tower was constructed in a mere 15 days by Broad Sustainable Building. Utilsiing modular construction and prefabricated components, the project highlighted China's advancements in rapid urban development.

Mini Sky City, Changsha, China

Completion Time:  19 days

Year:  2015

Another marvel by Broad Sustainable Building, the 57-storey Mini Sky City was assembled in just 19 days. The project emphasised the efficiency of modular construction and China's commitment to sustainable building practices.

The chess marathon began on April 17, alongside U.S. National Master Shawn Martinez.

“For all the dreamers! We’ve officially BROKEN THE RECORD,” Onakoya shared in a jubilant post on X (formerly Twitter).

Adding, “Every move, every hour, a love letter to children who’ve never known the luxury of a second chance.”

Onakoya, founder of Chess in Slums Africa, had the aim of raising $1 million toward building a free school for homeless and underserved children in Nigeria.

“If you had 70 hours to change the world , what would you do? Not for applause. Not for records. But for the quiet dreamers who need to see someone leap - so they know it’s possible to fly,” he wrote.

This record-setting is yet another milestone for the 29-year-old who, in 2024, played chess for 60 hours straight in a personal challenge.

10 poor countries paying the price for Donald Trump's tariff hikes

President Trump has extended his trade war to poorer nations like Lesotho, a southern African country known for textiles. Once dubbed the “denim capital of Africa,” it exported $235 million to the U.S. in 2024, supporting 30,000 jobs. Now, its denim exports face a steep 50% tariff. Read more here .

Money, lies, and power: How South Africans see Elon Musk

New research by Global South World reveals many South Africans view Elon Musk negatively. Analysing 82,300 online mentions and 572,000 likes, the study found common keywords like “money, disinformation, lies,” highlighting widespread criticism across media platforms. Read more here .

15-year-old Nigerian boy with autism breaks world record for largest canvas painting

Fifteen-year-old Nigerian artist Kanyeyachukwu Tagbo-Okeke has entered the Guinness World Records for the largest solo canvas painting, spanning 12,303 square meters. It was unveiled on April 2 at Abuja’s Eagle Square, coinciding with World Autism Awareness Day. Read more here .

Asia

Taiwan eyes zero tariffs with US, pledges more investment

Taiwan's President Lai Ching-te has offered zero tariffs in talks with the U.S., pledging to remove trade barriers and boost U.S. investments. This comes after President Trump imposed broad import tariffs, including a 32% duty on Taiwanese goods—though semiconductors, a key export, are exempt. Read more here .

Philippines alarmed over China arrest of alleged Filipino spies

The Philippines has voiced concern over China’s arrest of three Filipinos for alleged spying, calling them ordinary citizens and possible retaliation for Manila’s anti-espionage efforts. Officials say the trio were former scholars with no military ties. Read more here .

Indonesia will not retaliate against Trump tariff, official says

Indonesia will not retaliate against President Trump’s 32% tariff, its top economic minister said Sunday, April 6. Instead, the country will seek diplomatic and negotiated solutions to the sweeping U.S. trade measures. Read more here .

Colombian rebel group steps towards peace, hands over war material

Colombian armed group Comuneros del Sur, a breakaway faction of the ELN, handed over weapons and signed two peace agreements with President Gustavo Petro on Saturday, April 5. At an event in Pasto, the group said the move showed its commitment to peace. Read more here .

Amazon shipping route for Brazilian soy disrupted by protests, poor roads

Indigenous protests and poor roads have disrupted Brazil’s soybean shipments via the Miritituba port, affecting major firms like Cargill and Bunge. Grain handler group Abiove said blockades have delayed about 70,000 tons daily, worth nearly $30 million. Read more here .

US official discusses Panama Canal-related audit with Panamanian minister

U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau and Panama’s Foreign Minister Javier Martinez-Acha discussed the ongoing audit of Hutchison’s management of two key ports by the Panama Canal. While Panama runs the canal, the ports are operated by Hong Kong’s CK Hutchison, alongside others run by U.S., Singaporean, and Taiwanese firms. Read more here .

“This is a celebration for children with autism all over the world. Many thought Kanyeyachukwu’s goal was impossible, but he has proven otherwise. This achievement showcases the incredible talents that children with autism possess,” said Tagbo-Okeke’s father during the ceremony.

Tagbo-Okeke, who is autistic, received the Guinness World Record certificate during a special event that brought together dignitaries, art enthusiasts, and advocates for autism awareness and inclusion.

The event was also attended by Nigeria’s Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, who praised the young artist for his remarkable accomplishment.

“We are here to honor Kanyeyachukwu Tagbo-Okeke, a young Nigerian prodigy, who has shown the world what is possible when passion meets hard work,” Musawa said. “By breaking this world record, Kanyeyachukwu has not only set a new benchmark in art but has also reminded us all that age is no barrier to greatness. This is not only his achievement; it is Nigeria’s,” he added.

Born in Anambra State, Nigeria, Kanye was diagnosed with autism at the age of four. Though he faced challenges with verbal communication early on, he discovered a powerful means of expression through art.

Tagbo-Okeke now joins an inspiring list of Nigerians who have made their mark in the Guinness World Records, including Gbenga Ezekiel, who set a new record for the most skips on one leg in one minute (278), surpassing his previous record of 265; Bayo Omoboriowo, who created the world’s largest photo book in 2021; and Hilda Baci, who broke the record for the longest cooking marathon in May 2023 — among many others.

“I was just denied boarding on my flight to Perth, Australia for my final leg of the trip… Due to visa issues, I was put on standby for confirmation from Australia till boarding closed, and the gate agent had to rebook me on the next flight to Australia,” she wrote on social media.

Upon arriving in Sydney, Asinobi reported a total journey time of 71 hours and 26 minutes—over six hours longer than the record of 64 hours set in February by American traveller Johnny Cruz Buckingham.

Ahead of her trip, Asinobi had travelled to multiple countries to secure some of the 10 visas required for the challenge. She sought to draw attention to the travel restrictions faced by holders of “low-mobility” passports.

Nigeria ranks 88th out of 199 countries on the 2025 Henley Passport Index , which assesses global passports based on the number of destinations their holders can access without a prior visa.

Ayelabola did not walk this path alone. Her runway was shared with models who often face barriers in the fashion world—plus-size models, individuals with albinism, vitiligo, and tribal marks. 

According to the 26-year-old, the event was more than a record-breaking attempt; it was to inspire others to embrace their uniqueness.

“I came up with a theme that was inclusivity and diversity,” she told Guinness World Records . “I wanted a runway where everyone would be included and everybody could showcase their talent, and we could inspire others to be who they were and to stay true to themselves.”

Having worked in the modelling industry for six years, the inspiration for the record-setting catwalk stemmed from a personal experience of rejection. After being told she wasn’t tall enough to participate in a Lagos Fashion Week, Ayelabola set out to challenge conventional beauty standards. Her goal was to create opportunities for other aspiring models who had been turned away for reasons beyond their control.

“I started this journey to create a stage for all the models who’d been told no because they aren’t tall enough or have a skin condition, even though they were talented,” she explained.

Shukla’s records include the fastest mental addition of 100 four-digit numbers (30.9 seconds) and 200 four-digit numbers (1 minute, 9.68 seconds). He also set records for the fastest multiplication of two five-digit numbers (51.69 seconds) and two eight-digit numbers (2 minutes, 35.41 seconds).

He completed the mental division of a 20-digit number by a 10-digit number set of 10 in 5 minutes and 42 seconds and added 50 five-digit numbers in 18.71 seconds.

A video of his record-breaking performance shows him computing answers at a speed faster than a man using a calculator. As numbers flash on the screen, Shukla swiftly processes them in his mind, entering each answer with precise accuracy.

He attributes his success to dedicated practice, spending five to six hours daily on calculations and Sahaja Yoga meditation, which he says helps him maintain focus and composure.

His mother recalls that his talent became evident when he was just six years old. " Since childhood, he was very good with numbers. He enjoyed studying and playing with numbers ," she said .

“At the age of six, he started the practice of mental calculation, and he was very good, so we started doing some research on this, " she added. By eight, he was winning medals and trophies in international competitions.

Despite his exceptional abilities, his father insists the family doesn’t share his mathematical gift. "We are a normal family," he said. "Aaryan is truly one in a billion, but we are not a family of mental calculators."

"This is amazing, blowing a trumpet for 24 hours straight is incredible," said Myra, a student attending the event.

Brian Nyarango, a software developer, expressed confidence in Mutsembi's attempt. "We have a good pedigree as marathon runners. Now a musician is trying to achieve something similar. It's beautiful."

Digital marketer James Wamaathai was thrilled to witness the event. "I've supported his music before, but being part of a Guinness World Records attempt is something special," he said.

Writer Rehab Gachango marveled at Mutsembi's stamina. "It's mind-blowing, where does he get the lungs for this?" she wondered.

Mutsembi's attempt captured the spirit of determination and creativity, inspiring those who gathered to witness this remarkable feat.

The achievement required meticulous planning and round-the-clock monitoring, as confirmed by Guinness adjudicator Susana Reyes. “To beat a world record and set a new one, especially this one, is pretty unique. It took a lot of work from both Guinness and the record holder's team. We needed witnesses who were monitoring and verifying 24/7 for more than 120 days,” Reyes said.

The underwater habitat, stationed 11 meters below the surface, offered limited space but provided Koch with an intimate connection with marine life. "I didn’t have so much time to reflect; there was so much to do,” Koch said. “But it’s beautiful when things calm down, and it gets dark, and the sea starts glowing. I would turn off all the lights and let the sea be my only light source. It’s indescribable - you have to experience it yourself.”

Reyes noted the logistical challenges of conducting such a record attempt in the open sea, emphasising the complexity of providing for Koch’s needs while ensuring uninterrupted monitoring. "This also implies special logistics - not just to satisfy the needs of our record holder who lived underwater, but also to make sure all the evidence is verifiable," she explained.

Residents of Limay, Bataan, Philippines, continue to grapple with severe health issues and economic difficulties attributed to the coal-fired power plants situated nearby. These plants largely serve as suppliers of electricity to other provinces. The nation's reliance on coal remains significant, constituting 57% of the energy mix, with a troubling increase to 61.9% in 2023. Despite commitments made at COP28 to elevate renewable energy sources to 35% by 2030 and 50% by 2040, coal predominates, making the Philippines the foremost coal-dependent nation in Southeast Asia. The government has enacted a moratorium on new coal plants; however, expansions of existing facilities persist. The Department of Energy (DOE) is attempting to pivot towards renewable energy by enhancing incentives for clean energy investments, Dialogue Earth reports.

New Black Hawk helicopters to counter China

On a different note, the Philippines has bolstered its air force capabilities with the acquisition of five Sikorsky S-70i Black Hawk helicopters, delivered on December 9, 2024. This acquisition is part of a notable contract signed in 2021 for a total of 32 units within the Additional Utility Helicopters Acquisition program. These helicopters are notably versatile and equipped for a range of operational missions such as troop transport, medical evacuations, and disaster response, serving as replacements for older, less efficient models. Notably, the S-70i helicopters are powered by T700-GE-701D engines, accommodating up to 13 passengers and boasting advanced features, including infrared jammers and digital cockpit technology. The overall contract, valued at $624 million, as reported by Global Defense News , will increase the Philippine Air Force's active Black Hawk fleet to 48 by the year 2026, significantly supporting the military's modernisation initiatives and enhancing capacity in both security and humanitarian missions.

Philippines ratifies defence pact with Japan, amid China tensions

The Philippines has ratified a historic defence pact with Japan, designed to facilitate mutual troop deployments for military exercises amid escalating tensions with China. The Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA), which was signed in July and subsequently approved by the Philippine Senate, aims to strengthen collaborative military operations, particularly in the domain of maritime patrols. The pact is anticipated to enhance the operational capabilities of the Armed Forces of the Philippines while fostering closer collaboration with Japan’s Self-Defense Forces, particularly in addressing security concerns within the South China Sea region. Emphasising stability and adhering to a rules-based international order, both nations are navigating the complexities presented by China, which has expressed criticism of the agreement. The RAA will come into effect following signature by Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and ratification by the Japanese legislature, reports Benar News .

Gathering of angels in the Philippines breaks world record

A remarkable cultural achievement emerged from San Rafael, Bulacan, Philippines when the municipality set a new Guinness World Record for the largest assembly of individuals dressed as angels. This record-breaking event occurred at the Victory Coliseum, where participation exceeded 2,000 individuals, surpassing the previous record of 1,275 established in 2015 in Winnipeg, Canada. According to UPI , the successful confirmation of this record was undertaken by a Guinness adjudicator, highlighting the local community's commitment to cultural expression and collective celebration.

Filipina drugs convict nearly executed in Indonesia to return home Dec 18

Mary Jane Veloso, a Filipina on death row in Indonesia, is slated to return to the Philippines on December 18, after nearly nine years since her execution was postponed following requests for her case to be reviewed. Veloso, apprehended in 2010 for drug trafficking, has persistently claimed victimhood status in a human trafficking scheme. Her repatriation is a result of a bilateral agreement between Indonesia and the Philippines, allowing for her transfer into Filipino custody, although immediate plans for reciprocal prisoner exchanges are not in place. Benar News highlights that his development closely follows the return of five Australian prisoners involved in the 'Bali Nine' drug trafficking case, with both transfers adhering to agreements that respect the judicial decisions of each nation and the concept of reciprocity in future exchanges.

Spanning 11 million square meters, the development is expected to generate over 43,000 jobs, boosting both local and national economic growth, as reported by Arab News .

The opening ceremony, held on November 24, was led by Prince Saud bin Mishal, a member of the ruling royal family of Saudi Arabia and attended by high-ranking Saudi officials, including Saudi Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources Bandar Alkhorayef,

Speaking at the event, Alkhorayef highlighted the strategic importance of the cluster.

“Through this cluster, we aim to leverage the ministry’s capabilities to serve Jeddah, the Kingdom’s economic hub, and a prime investment destination,” he said, emphasising its role as more than just an industrial project.

The Jeddah Food Cluster is expected to enhance food security, develop robust food value chains, and position the Kingdom as a regional hub for both domestic and international investment in the food sector.

The Saudi government has made huge investments in various sectors as part of its ambitious Vision 2030, which aims to diversify the country's economy, society, and culture.

Earlier in November, the government unveiled a $100 billion initiative, Project Transcendence, aimed at bolstering artificial intelligence, data analytics, and advanced technology.

It is located in Campuestohan, Negros Occidental and has 15 luxury rooms and other amenities.

The Guinness World Record (GWR) confirmed it as “the world’s largest building shaped like a chicken”.

Ricardo Cano Gwapo Tan, the resort owner, said he wanted to “create the unthinkable.

According to him, he chose the rooster design because of its strong and commanding yet calm outlook that reflects the spirit of the people of the community.

“I had a vision to make something with a wow factor that can leave a footprint of admiration to the public,” he told GWR.

GWR shared images of the hotel on Instagram, describing it as a “quirky hotel located in Negros Occidental, Philippines.”

To qualify for the record, Sebin had to design, assemble, and demonstrate that the machine could complete a full cycle, including washing, rinsing, and spinning.  The miniature washing machine was first unveiled in Kanjirapally, in India’s Kerala state on 19 April.

Measuring the tiny device required the use of special digital callipers due to its compact size. While it may not be practical for laundry purposes, as no clothes could fit inside, Sebin managed to fulfil his dream of becoming a Guinness World Record holder.

India has a reputation for holding a high number of Guinness World Records, both individually and in groups. In addition to Sebin’s achievement, the world’s smallest vacuum cleaner was also recently created in India by 23-year-old student Tapala Nadamuni. His record-breaking vacuum cleaner measures just 0.65 cm (0.25 in) on its shortest axis.

Guinness World Records have become a source of pride and opportunity for many in India. Earlier this year, Global South World spoke to Sarvagya Kulshreshtha, a three-time Guinness World Record holder in Rubik's Cubes from India who highlighted the benefits of holding such a title.

“You could tell people about yourself and they're generally curious about hearing your story and it gives you that edge over other people. It also opens doors to a lot of new opportunities,” he said.

Sarvagya earned his first record in 2020 by solving a Rubik’s Cube in 15.75 seconds, surpassing the previous record of 20 seconds. He later secured two additional titles in 2022 for Rubik’s Cube variations, including Pyraminx.

Since becoming a Guinness World Record holder Sarvagya has had opportunities in public speaking, including TEDx events.

Despite the milestone, Tinniswood remained remarkably calm. "In all honesty, no difference. I don't feel that age, I don't get excited over it. That's probably why I've reached it. I just take it in my stride like anything else," Guinness World Record quoted him.

Tinniswood was officially recognised as the world’s oldest living man by Guinness World Records earlier this year.

He served as a World War II veteran in the Royal Army Pay Corps, where his duties included managing finances and helping stranded soldiers. Commenting on the world’s evolution, he expressed a critical view. "It’s no better in my opinion, or hardly any better," he said.

Even at 112, Tinniswood stays engaged with the world, managing his finances and keeping up with global news via the radio.

Tinniswood’s daily routine is refreshingly simple. He enjoys fish and chips every Friday but doesn’t follow a specific diet.

His advice for longevity? “Moderation,” he says. “I was quite active as a youngster; I did a lot of walking. But to me, I’m no different [to anyone]. No different at all.”

In a statement , Captain Odujinrin described his mission as a "record-breaking 20-hour endurance flight from London to Nigeria with a first stop in Kano State inside the smallest and lightest aircraft ever." The ambitious journey is meticulously planned, with stops at key locations across Nigeria, including Kano - the first state where a plane landed in the country, along with Borno, Enugu, Akwa Ibom, Owerri, Warri, Benin, Ogun State, Lagos, and the capital city, Abuja.

The flight, documented as part of a larger project, will culminate in a reception in Abuja, where Nigeria's Minister of Aviation and the President are expected to welcome Captain Odujinrin. 

To prepare for the flight, Captain Odujinrin underwent a rigorous preparation process, including a weight loss journey of over 20 kilograms to optimize the aircraft's aerodynamic efficiency. 

On March 29, 2017, he completed his "One Man, One Plane" expedition, becoming the first African and the ninth British pilot to fly solo around the world. 

The painting titled "Unity in Diversity," the painting depicts a map of Nigeria’s diverse ethnic groups through their unique attire, languages, culture, and artistic expressions.

On July 19, at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena (Onikan, Lagos, Nigeria), Dr. David broke the previous record and announced his determination to achieve his ultimate goal of covering 1,000 square meters of canvas. In an Instagram post, he shared his excitement: "Congratulations to us all. On Day 4 at 9 p.m., we broke the current record of 629.98 square meters, but we are not yet done! The goal is to get over 1,000 square meters of canvas covered in drawings; we are currently at 689 square meters. Let’s go!"

Throughout his record-breaking attempt, Dr. David has received support from various celebrities and dignitaries, who visited the stadium to witness his artistic feat firsthand. 

Notable among them is renowned Nigerian chef and Guinness World Record holder, Hilda Baci. 

Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu also shared in the milestone by congratulating Dr. Fola David on setting the Guinness World Record for the largest drawing by an individual. The president posted to his Instagram account to congratulate him. Tinubu wrote, “Congratulations to Dr. Fola David for completing his attempt at making the world’s largest hand-drawing by an individual, ‘Unity in Diversity.’ We are filled with great pride and admiration for this accomplishment.”

The Governor of Lagos city also added from the challenging days of the pandemic where he was a #COVID19Hero at our Onikan Isolation Centre to breaking world records at our Onikan Stadium (Mobolaji Johnson Arena), Dr. Fola David has been a beacon of excellence and service.  Congratulations on creating the world’s largest hand-drawing by an individual, ‘Unity in Diversity.’ Lagos is proud!  We are happy to have supported this record-breaking feat to showcase the extraordinary talents within our state. Your dedication and creativity inspire us all.

Confirmation of his record-breaking feat came through a letter from Guinness World Records. A part of it read , “We are thrilled to inform you that your application for Youngest artist (male) has been successful and you are now the Guinness World Records Title Holder!"

Ace Liam's journey to the record began with his art exhibitions in Accra from January 18 to January 20, 2024.

Liam ended the reign of Dante Lamb, who had held the record since 2003 when he achieved it at the age of three.

Ace Liam's mother, Chantelle Eghan, expressed her gratitude to the people of Ghana for their support throughout her son's attempt. She said that Liam's artistic journey started at the young age of just six months.

Liam’s record contributes to Ghana's growing list of Guinness World Record titles, following closely on the heels of Abubakar Tahiru , a 29-year-old who recently claimed the record for the most trees hugged in an hour.

"it's definitely worth it. So that is worth it, putting yourself to this. You have to know your limits and practice multiple times before you actually go and attempt it," said Savagya. He, however, cautioned that "there's a fine line like you shouldn't cross that line where it is affecting you."

The Guinness World Record franchise has seen numerous records shattered by individuals vying to etch their names in history books. In Africa, a surge of various marathons—ranging from cooking, singing, and long speeches to talk shows and tree-hugging—are witnessing participants staying awake for over 130 hours to claim world titles.

The most recent marathon to have grabbed the headlines was by Nigerian chess champion Tunde Onakoya , who surpassed the existing 56-hour chess record by clocking in 60 hours. Although Onakoya did not disclose any health implications after completing his attempt, his fellow Nigerian, Kehinde Odesola , an artist who in his attempt to set a new Guinness World Record for the longest painting marathon in an interview with GSW in February spoke of hallucinating after over 100 hours into his attempt.

Despite the taxing effort involved in these endeavours, Sarvagya celebrates them for the opportunities they present to individuals who achieve world record titles.

"The benefits are that it's good. You could tell people about yourself and they're generally curious about hearing your story and it helps you, like, gives you that edge over other people. It also opens doors to a lot of new opportunities. Personally, it has opened doors for public speaking opportunities. So now I've given that talk, I've given two TEDx talks as well and I really do public speaking. So that's, and if you can get collaborations and stuff. So those are the doors it opens and then it helps you create an identity for yourself," he added.

In 2020, Sarvagya Kulshreshtha secured his first Guinness World Record title by solving a Rubik's Cube in just 15.75 seconds, surpassing the existing record of 20 seconds at the time. He went on to achieve his second and third titles in 2022, for Rubik's Cubes and Pyraminx, respectively.

Watch this interview:

Arriving at the airport on April 24, Onakoya was greeted with enthusiastic cheers, singing, and dancing, as supporters celebrated his extraordinary achievement. The atmosphere was filled with pride and admiration for the chess master, whose dedication and determination have inspired many across the continent.

"The moment I stepped out of the plane in Abuja last night and was almost mobbed by customs officials for a selfie, it immediately dawned on me that my reality was a different one now. This will definitely take a lot of getting used to," Onakoya wrote on his X page.

The marathon, which commenced in the heart of Times Square in New York City on April 17, was not only to etch his name in chess history but also to raise funds for children's education initiatives across Africa. With a goal of $1 million, Onakoya's marathon attempt garnered widespread attention and support from chess enthusiasts and philanthropists.

Throughout the marathon, Onakoya engaged in a gripping battle of intellect against Shawn Martinez, a US chess master, adhering to stringent guidelines set forth by Guinness World Records. The rules mandated continuous play by two participants for the entire duration, with only brief breaks permitted.

While Onakoya's record attempt awaits official confirmation from Guinness World Records, the chess community and the public at large have already hailed him as a true champion.

Onakoya, 29, surpassed the previous record of 56 hours, nine minutes, and 37 seconds, set in 2018 by Norwegian players Hallvard Haug Flatebo and Sjur Ferkingstad. Playing against Shawn Martinez, a US chess master, Onakoya adhered to strict guidelines mandating continuous play by two participants for the entire duration. The players were allowed only five minutes of break for every hour of gameplay.

Support for Onakoya's endeavour poured in both online and at the scene, with spectators entertained by African music as the marathon progressed. Despite the nature of the challenge, Onakoya emphasised that the record attempt was "for the dreams of millions of children across Africa without access to education."

Meanwhile, the Guinness World Record has yet to publicly comment on Onakoya's achievement, as the organization is known to typically take several weeks to verify new records.

Tinubu congratulates Onakoya

However, Onakoya's accomplishment has already sent waves worldwide, drawing praise from notable figures such as Nigerian President Bola Tinubu.

In a statement, Tinubu congratulated Onakoya for his extraordinary feat, hailing him as a symbol of Nigeria's resilience, self-belief, and ingenuity on the global stage. He commended Onakoya for leveraging his passion for chess to drive positive change, particularly in providing educational opportunities for disadvantaged African children .

He wrote, “I congratulate Tunde Onakoya on setting a new world chess record and sounding the gong of Nigeria's resilience, self-belief, and ingenuity at the square of global acclaim. I celebrate this Nigerian Chess Champion and founder of Chess in Slums Africa for his rare feat, but especially for the reason driving this compelling demonstration of character, which is raising funds for African children to learn and find opportunity through chess.”

His goal is to raise $1 million to expand access to education for millions of disadvantaged children throughout the continent. Onakoya aims to achieve this by engaging in a gruelling chess marathon, facing off against multiple opponents over 58 consecutive hours, all within the iconic New York Times Square.

The Chess in Slums convener aims to surpass the current record of 56 hours, 9 minutes, and 37 seconds, set by Norway's Hallvard Haug Flatebø and Sjur Ferkingtad in 2018.

Taking to Instagram, Onakoya expressed the daunting nature of the challenge, stating, "This is by far one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to do, but one thing I know for sure is I will not be alone through it all. Need everyone’s support now more than ever to raise awareness and support for the incredible work we do at chess in slums and the gift of chess."

This competition follows Onakoya's remarkable performance earlier this year when he engaged in a simultaneous chess match against 10 players in Germany.

Below are some social media reactions:

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro took to social media to mourn Juan's passing, expressing condolences and recognising his extraordinary life saying, "Juan Vicente Pérez Mora has transcended into eternity at 114 years old, from the town of El Cobre who gave Venezuela the Guinness Record for being the oldest man in the world."

Juan's journey into the record books began on February 4, 2022, when he was officially recognised as the oldest man alive aged 112 years and 253 days old following the passing of Spanish-born Saturnino de la Fuente Garcia on 18 January 2022 at 112 years and 341 days.

Reflecting on Juan's legacy, Craig Glenday, Guinness World Records Editor-in-Chief, remarked, "It’s been an honour to recognize and celebrate the incredibly long life of Venezuela’s first ever fully authenticated supercentenarian man."

Juan attributed his longevity to a simple yet disciplined lifestyle, including hard work, adequate rest, early bedtime, daily consumption of aguardiente (distilled alcoholic spirit), and unwavering faith in God.

Married for 60 years to Ediofina del Rosario García, Juan and his wife established a large family of 11 children, 42 grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren, and 12 great-great-grandchildren.

Having witnessed significant milestones throughout history, including both World Wars, the invention of television, and the moon landing, he became the first male supercentenarian from Venezuela in 2019 on his 110 th birthday and would have turned 115 in May. 

Attention now turns to 112-year-old Gisaburo Sonobe of Japan, who is expected to become the oldest living man pending confirmation from his family, according to Guinness World Records.

While María Branyas Morera who was 115 years 321 days old, as of 19 January 2023 was recognised by Guinness World Records as the world's oldest living person, South Africa’s Johanna Mazibuko , who died two months before turning 129 in March 2023 was said to have been the world’s oldest living person.

More West Africans are increasingly expressing interest in setting new Guinness World Records (GWR) in recent times.

The Guinness World Record has revealed that since July 2023, there have been a total of 355 applications from individuals in Ghana alone for records in cooking, singing, and speech among others.

Nigerians also have been in the books with Hilda Baci earning a slot as a record holder after her cook-a-thon in May 2023 with over 100 hours of cooking.

But in recent times, some record attempts from West African nation Ghana have not been successful with GWR citing the breaking of some rules as reason for their disqualifications.

First was Ghana’s Afua Asantewaa who held a sing-a-thon for four days, hitting 126 hours and 52 minutes in total in December 2023.

Chef Faila Abdul-Razak followed with her cook-a-thon attempt in January, cooking for 227 hours in an attempt to beat the record of Irish chef Alan Fisher who has a record of 199 hours and 57 minutes.

Both candidates however failed to earn the record as Guinness World Record indicated they fell short of abiding by strict rest break rules and guidelines set by them.

The way forward?

Speaking to GSW in an interview, she told Wonder Hagan that the failures of these women to achieve the records do not make them losers.

According to her, the efforts and hard work they put into the attempts were remarkable and even more admirable as women.

“I want to tell them not to stop, it does not end when you fail and when you enter into something, expect two results, expect to pass or to fail and I feel like for that lady who cooked for many hours and another one who sang for four days, I commend them, I congratulate them. How many people have attempted that honestly? And they are even women. I want to tell them that they are already winners,” she said.

Tata further urged that like her who is ready to go beyond regardless of the outcome of her attempt, individuals like Chef Faila and Afua Asantewaa ought to dwell on the exposure given to them by their attempts to be more impactful in their respective countries.

“Guinness World Record is just one organization so if that organization has not awarded you the title, you move forward, you continue making the impact that you had desired to make. It does not end there and I want to talk to those women personally, I have not received my results yet. I do not know which results I am going to receive, but for me, I don’t think it will allow it to put me down even if it comes out negative. So let them just continue doing what they are doing and I like what they are doing, it’s amazing. Putting up such an event and subjecting your body to such levels of endurance is already a win so I just want to tell them that they are winners, they are not losers,” she further noted.

Rose Tata Wekesa who is also the first individual to attempt the longest science lesson record with the Guinness World Record also noted that these trained individuals in science majors like medicine, engineering among others are put in compromising situations where they opt to seek greener pastures in other countries because of their working conditions.

“There are some engineering courses I see in my country, we don’t have those industries here because we are still a developing country honestly so if a student is doing a certain course and there’s no industry, nowhere for that student to apply their information, they’ll definitely go to another country to practice and to make sure that they get experience from that other country,” she told GSW’s Wonder Hagan.

“Another thing you’ll find is that even when they are doing that work within their countries, they are underpaid and overworked so they end up looking for better opportunities for greener pastures and when those doors open you realise that we are training many people in our countries and then they are going to work in other countries where they are getting better deals and opportunities,” she added.

Although she acknowledged that there is a general improvement in government investment in various African countries including Kenya, she noted that there needs to be practicality in training and the provision of well-equipped labs to promote science education in countries within Africa.

“I think we are trying in Kenya and Africa at large because I’ve seen that there are some industries set up in Africa that use a lot of scientific applications, and also the fact that we have universities that offer medical studies, pharmaceutical studies. We are trying, we are not there yet as the way developed countries are but we are not where we were, there’s quite some improvement and I can see science being applied to some extent,” Rose noted.

“But we need to improve on the training for the teachers who will go to teach those sciences, we need to train them more using practical methods. I feel that there’s a gap in terms of how the science teachers are being trained, and if science teachers are not trained effectively, they will also not teach science effectively unless someone with quite a passion and someone who will go and do research themselves to improve themselves professionally.

Another thing the government can do to promote science education is to make sure that every school has science labs and the labs are equipped well because you can find a school with a lab but the labs are not equipped or very few so you find some students finishing their education without actually touching some apparatus,” she added.

Initially aiming for a 15-day endeavour, Chef Smith persisted for 35 days, ultimately clocking over 820 hours in the kitchen, reports local media Graphic Online.

Recent attempts from Ghana to get a Guinness World Record have been unsuccessful with candidates including Chef Faila who cooked non-stop for more than 227 hours. Despite these challenges, many fans remain optimistic about Chef Smith's potential to succeed and break the trend.

On March 6, Chef Smith officially ended his GWR attempt when he took to Instagram to write, “Happy Independence Day Everyone! Thank You all for the love. This is for us this is for Ghana”.

Ebenezer Smith, an international executive chef is also a graduate of National University’s College of Tourism and Hospitality Management in the Phillippines.

Chef Smith expressed his desire to set a record that would be difficult to break. “I originally planned to do 15 days but I have realised that people are coming up to break the record so I extended it to a month to make it difficult for anyone to break it,” Chef Smith was quoted by Asaase Radio .

Out of a total of 341 dishes submitted, 28 dishes were disqualified for not meeting the Guinness requirements, according to official Guinness adjudicator Sonia Ushirogochi.

“As you know the minimum is 300. Today, we have 341 dishes that were submitted. However, we have some disqualifications, some of the dishes do not meet the guidelines. We have 28 dishes that do not meet the guidelines, so with a total of 313, we have a new Guinness World Record for most varieties of pork dishes on display,” Ushirogochi is quoted by the Philippine Star .

She presented the Guinness World Record certificate to the members of NatFed and also noted that each dish should weigh at least 3 kilos.

NatFed Chairman Chester Warren Tan also said that the Hog Festival will contribute to an increase in tourism by showcasing the nation's culinary heritage of providing pork dishes adding that the record will also encourage local hog farmers to expand hog production to increase the country's per capita consumption of pork, the Manila Times reported.

He added that NatFed wants to increase the per capita consumption of pork in the Southeast Asian country from 16 kg to 17 kg.

The Guinness record, according to Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr., will help raise awareness of African swine flu (ASF), which has affected the local hog population.

Pig production in the Philippines fell from a record high of 12.8 million in 2020 to 9.94 million in 2021 and 9.43 million in 2022, with small farmers most affected, Manila Times reports.

The Nigerian, a ceramics major at the university could not achieve his target of 120 hours for the painting marathon. He was 10 hours shy of his target, managing 110 hours in his official attempt.

However, Odesola managed to achieve the 36-hour target for the colouring marathon and his 110 hours for the painting marathon is more than the current Guinness World Record of 100 hours by Nigerian, Chancellor Ahaghotu in October 2023.

The Nigerian painter in an interview with GSW indicated that he could not achieve his target due to health reasons.

“I prepared… But after some time, I noticed that my body was not, I was feeling exhausted already. Because usually, I do have rest time. Like, they give me five-minute breaks every one hour. So, I can compile the rest time. So, if three hours work, then 15 minutes rest. Two hours work, then 10 minutes rest. So, I did six hours stretch, then a 30-minute break,” Odesola told GSW.

“I started seeing some things that are not, you know when you deprive yourself of sleep for a longer time, it's normal. Because I've read about it before I started. Like, what are the side effects of not sleeping for a long time. Like, I read about it, like, hallucinating. So, it started happening to me. I was seeing like, I was in a trance. I was seeing something else. But the object I was drawing started moving. Both of my eyes, like, the object were moving,” he added.

The Nigerian when asked how he would feel if his records were broken before official confirmation arrived, he said “Whether it lasts a few weeks or a few months. I think what matters is I broke the record and my name is in the book of Guinness World Records or something. The thing is that even before you break any record, you have to apply and before Guinness World Record accepts your application, it takes like 12 to 13 weeks.”

Odesola also added that he was motivated to take on this challenge after witnessing fellow Nigerian Hilda Baci break the Guinness World Record for the longest cooking marathon in 2023.

“I did not know I can actually break Guinness World Record until I started seeing some World Record Breaker in Nigeria. if I had known, maybe I would have been the first to do that. So that also serve as the motivating factor for me. I was like, wow, so someone can actually break Guinness World Record in Nigeria… It's because of this person. So that's why I chose to do it on my own field,” Odesola said.

Following Baci’s record in 2023, there has been an ‘epidemic’ of Guinness World Record attempts that have taken place in Africa.

The Nigerian chef’s record for the longest cooking marathon was officially dethroned by a chef in Ireland. Since then there have been many attempts at the cooking marathon record in Africa.

Watch the full interview below.

Afua Asantewaa Aduonum had undertaken a remarkable challenge to break the existing record for the longest continuous singing marathon, a feat requiring significant endurance and vocal prowess. Despite her efforts, the official confirmation from Guinness World Records indicates that the attempt did not meet the criteria for a successful record-breaking achievement.

Before the disqualification, Afua Asantewaa revealed to local media Joy News that she paid $750 to expedite the priority review process with Guinness World Records. In an interview, Asantewaa explained that the standard review process typically takes up to twelve weeks, but by making the payment, she was able to fast-track the process and receive results within five days.

“I have an account with them [GWR], so right after the record attempt, they requested our files because we were putting everything together. They reached out to us and requested our videos. I think after two weeks of waiting, we decided to go in for a priority review,” Afua said. “The normal review takes not less or more than twelve weeks, but if you want it quick, you pay an amount of money, and they review your file within five working days, and that is what we paid for. Officially, it is $650, but if you are going to pay into an account, you have to pay some transaction fees. So totally, we paid around $750,” she added.

Afua’s singing marathon began at midnight on December 24 and ended on December 29, 2023.

Here are a few reactions on social media following the announcement.

Chef Failatu Abdul-Razak, known as Chef Faila from the Northern region of Ghana sought to surpass the Guinness World Record held by Irish chef Alan Fisher with 119 hours by officially ending her attempt after a remarkable 227 hours.

The Guinness World Record took to X, formerly Twitter to acknowledge her attempt after a verified X account, Olele Salvador , announced that Chef Faila had concluded her GWR attempt.

“We look forward to reviewing her evidence!” GWR said in a tweet on January 10.

Failatu Abdul-Razak stands out as a vocal advocate for women's rights and an opponent of child trafficking. Faila initially ventured into the world of Afro-Pop music and in 2016 she released her hit song, "Piibu". Beyond her musical career, Faila actively engages in various charitable endeavours, using her platform to address issues related to ethnic conflicts.

Her record-breaking attempt has gained global attention, receiving support from Ghana's Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, who contributed GH₵30,000 ($2,500) to assist with the bills incurred during her attempt.

While Chef Faila's physical fitness allowed her to cook for more hours, her husband said the decision was made despite assurances from the medical team and Faila herself that she would be able to go on, reports local media GhanaWeb .

Amid cultural display and a variety of dishes representing both local and continental cuisines, Failatu aimed to showcase the rich culture of the Northern Region and Ghana as a whole.

“I strongly believe my participation will put Ghana and the North on the global stage and promote tourism and other economic opportunities for Ghana,” Failatu is quoted by local media Daily Guide

Chef Faila's record-breaking attempt follows that of Ghanaian Afua Asantewaa Aduonum, who sang continuously for 126 hours and 52 minutes, both awaiting approval from GWR.

Gbenga Ezekiel broke his record by achieving the most skips in one minute on one leg, an impressive 278 skips, surpassing his previous record of 265. He also set a new record for the most double under skips in one minute on one leg, achieving 144, beating the previous record of 132 set by India’s Himanshu Prajapati in 2021, the Guinness World Records reported.

On the same day, Philip Solomon made his mark by breaking one of Himanshu’s records for the most rope crossovers while skipping on one leg in 30 seconds, achieving an incredible 69 crossovers. Philip also equalled another record for the most rope crossovers while skipping on one leg in 30 seconds blindfolded, achieving 62. These achievements add to Philip's already impressive collection, as he earned his first Guinness World Record title in early 2023 for performing the most skips in 30 seconds on one foot (153).

Dunsin Dubem, the third member of the talented trio, set a new record for the most double under crossovers while skipping in 30 seconds, achieving 78 and surpassing the previous record by five.

The journey to these world records began when Gbenga, Philip, and Dunsin started skipping at the age of 14–15, under the guidance of coach Ukandu Chibuisi in the city of Akure. Their aspirations to participate in the World Jump Rope Championships were hindered by a lack of funds, leading them to focus on breaking Guinness World Records titles instead.

“We decided to focus on breaking as many Guinness World Records titles as we could,” said Philip, highlighting the impact of their coach's advice and training.

Looking ahead, the trio plans to continue their record-breaking journey in 2024. Alongside Coach Chibuisi, they have initiated a programme called "Rope Skipping in My School" to promote the sport of skipping to students in both urban and rural communities in the West African nation, hoping to inspire a new generation of talented rope skippers and future Guinness World Records title holders.

Expressing his ambition to establish himself as a recognized artist, Ahaghotu shared, “ I came to the United States to pursue my dreams and build up my career as a recognized artist. Breaking the record will boost my recognition as an artist both in my school and the world at large.”

The four-day marathon, monitored by Guinness World Records adjudicators, saw Ahaghotu create 106 diverse paintings, ranging from celebrities and food to plants and animals.

“One thing I love about the paintings I created is that they were representing my different moods and how I was feeling when I created them,” Ahaghotu was quoted by GWR .

“As with all ‘longest marathon’ records, the challenger is permitted a five-minute rest break for every continuous hour of activity – these rest breaks can be accumulated if not taken. They were the only times Chancellor could use the bathroom, eat, or sleep,” GWR said on their website.

When he surpassed the 60 th hour, he painted a broken record player, GWR added.

Chancellor faced fatigue around the 88-hour mark but remained committed to reaching his target of 100 hours. He expressed his joy and a sense of personal achievement upon completing the 100 hours, stating, “This record helps me feel a very high level of personal achievement, build up my career as a reputable artist, and pay a service to my school and country.”

Aduonum commenced her record-breaking attempt at midnight on December 24. Originally, she had intended to sing until December 27 to surpass the current record, however, she decided to prolong the marathon until December 29.

This extension allowed her to accumulate sufficient time to compensate for the numerous breaks and pauses during the singing session. Consequently, she is expected to comfortably surpass the 105-hour mark she initially aimed to surpass.

"At one point I kept asking which day it was, and I finally got to know that today is Friday. This was a mere dream that was realised just in a period of five days. ... I don’t even remember how it started, not to mention how it ended," she said at the aftermath of her event.

Aduonum added, "On behalf of my husband, my family, my team of volunteers, media , Ghana Tourism authority, l want to say a very big thank you to each and every one who participated in this sing-a-ton attempt."

In a Facebook post announcing the conclusion of her campaign, the entrepreneur and mother reflected on her achievement, highlighting how she had successfully established a new personal record.

“This is where I end my journey! 126 hours, 52mins. We broke a record and set a new one. It was your love, dedication, motivation, and prayers that gave me the strength to get on my feet every time and keep going for this long. It wouldn’t have been possible without you! Thank you, everyone, thank you Ghana!” She wrote.

The head of Aduonum’s medical team, Dr Grace Buckman told the media that the decision to conclude the sing-a-thon was based on the need to prioritise her health . “there’s only a point you can go as a person. She has done so well and we are extremely proud of her. We have gotten to a point that as a medical team, her health is very important. At the moment we want her to rest so she will bounce back to us,” said Dr Buckman.

During the pendency of her marathon, the Ghanaian Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia and several celebrities passed through to encourage her. The Guinness World Records is yet to review and certify Aduonom’s attempt.

Holding a new record of 119 hours, 57 minutes, Irish chef Alan Fisher is now the acclaimed longest cooking marathon (individual) in the Guinness World Record titles.

Announcing this on their official website, the Guinness World Record in a statement said Alan had broken two cooking-related titles including the longest baking marathon (individual).

“First up, he's claimed the longest cooking marathon (individual) after clocking in a time of 119 hours 57 minutes. That is more than 24 hours longer than the previous record held by Nigerian chef Hilda Baci.

“Alan then claimed the longest baking marathon (individual), with a time of 47 hours 21 minutes. The previous record holder was Wendy Sandner (USA) with a time of 31 hours 16 minutes.

“What's even more impressive is that Alan took on both attempts back to back, meaning he was at work in the kitchen for over 160 hours with just over a day of rest in between!” the statement said.

Baci in a post reacting to the new record congratulated the new champion, wishing him the best of luck.

Nigerians have since been reacting to the development on social media platform X.