Entertainment
FOCAP Applauds Government’s Creative Industry Reforms; Calls for Action
The Foundation of Concerned Arts Professionals (FOCAP), Ghana’s most vybrant creative advocacy group committed to the growth, protection, and sustainability of Ghana’s creative sector, extends warm congratulations to the Government of Ghana and the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture for the bold steps taken to give structure, leadership, and renewed energy to the nation’s creative industry.
The recent inauguration of boards under the various creative domains, alongside the appointment of executive secretaries to lead them, represents a much-needed turning point for Ghana’s creative economy. For years, industry stakeholders have called for proper governance structures, consistent policy direction, and accountable leadership. These appointments, therefore, mark not just symbolic progress but also a practical step towards building an ecosystem where creativity is nurtured, regulated, and projected on both local and international fronts.
Equally commendable is the launch of the Black Star Experience initiative and secretariat. This initiative carries enormous potential to redefine how Ghana is positioned as a cultural hub, both within Africa and globally. By celebrating Ghana’s rich history, diverse traditions, and growing creative expressions, the Black Star Experience can serve as a unifying platform for tourism, arts, heritage, and innovation. It is an invitation to the world to engage with Ghana not only as the “Gateway to Africa” but as a dynamic centre for cultural excellence.
However, while these milestones are worth celebrating, they also demand serious reflection and responsibility. FOCAP wishes to remind all stakeholders that setting up boards and initiatives is only the beginning; the true measure of progress will lie in their functionality, accountability, and impact.
For Ghana’s creative economy to thrive, several critical areas must be prioritised:
- Sustainable Funding Models – The creative industry cannot flourish without consistent investment. Government and private sector collaboration is essential to provide grants, tax incentives, and innovative financing opportunities for practitioners.
- Capacity Building & Skills Development – Training programs, workshops, and mentorship initiatives must be scaled up to empower artists, producers, and cultural entrepreneurs to meet global standards.
- Intellectual Property Protection – Laws around copyright and royalties need to be strengthened and enforced to ensure that creative professionals reap the full benefits of their work.
- Promotion of Local Content – Ghana must consciously elevate its music, films, crafts, and other creative outputs both domestically and abroad. This not only protects cultural identity but also boosts economic potential.
- Partnerships & Collaboration – Effective collaboration between policymakers, industry leaders, international partners, and grassroots practitioners will be crucial to building a robust creative ecosystem.
FOCAP is committed to working hand in hand with the Ministry, the new boards, and all industry stakeholders to ensure that this momentum is not lost. The success of these initiatives depends on transparency, visionary leadership, and the willingness of all players to put the nation’s creative growth above individual interest.
As we congratulate the government on these strides, we equally issue a call to action: let us build an industry that does not merely entertain but educates, empowers, and drives economic transformation. Ghana’s creative economy has the potential to be one of the nation’s biggest assets if we nurture it with consistency, innovation, and collective responsibility.
FOCAP believes the time is now. The structures have been laid; the vision has been set. What remains is for all hands to be on deck. Together, we can secure a thriving future for Ghana’s creative industry, one that inspires generations and commands global respect.
Signed,
Kojo Preko Dankwa
President FOCAP
0550077040
Mel Kwesi Davis
Vice President FOCAP
0246550298
Enoch Agyepong
Vice President, Research.
0244712136.
Ghanaian rap heavyweight Michael Owusu Addo, popularly known as Sarkodie, has etched his name deeper into global music history after officially selling out London’s iconic Royal Albert Hall.
The landmark achievement comes weeks before his highly anticipated Rapperholic UK concert, slated for March 6, 2026, a date that coincides with Ghana’s 69th Independence Day. All 5,272 seats at the world renowned venue have been snapped up, underscoring the rapper’s massive international appeal.
The Royal Albert Hall, celebrated for hosting some of the greatest names in global music, is known for its discerning audience and demanding acoustics. Sarkodie’s ability to command such a prestigious stage further affirms his standing as one of Africa’s most influential hip hop artists and a powerful cultural export.
Rapperholic, which began over a decade ago as a Christmas concert at the Accra International Conference Centre, has grown into a global brand. From a local Ghanaian tradition, it has evolved into one of Africa’s most respected hip hop franchises, consistently raising the bar for live performances.
The decision to stage the concert on Ghana’s Independence Day adds strong patriotic symbolism, turning the event into both a musical spectacle and a celebration of Ghanaian excellence on the world stage. Industry observers describe the sell out as a clear statement of the rising global demand for African creativity.
The event is expected to draw a diverse crowd, blending members of the Ghanaian diaspora in the UK with international hip hop fans. Beyond music, the concert is also projected to boost the UK’s hospitality and tourism sectors, with fans reportedly travelling from across Europe to be part of the historic night.
As anticipation builds, Sarkodie has been teasing fans with hints of a high energy, high production performance, including a live orchestra and surprise appearances from prominent UK and African artists.
For Ghana’s creative industry, the Royal Albert Hall sell out stands as a powerful example of what strategic branding, consistency, and excellence can achieve, proving that African artists can confidently occupy the world’s most prestigious stages.
The Ghanaian entertainment industry is witnessing a quiet but intense shift. Comedians are increasingly competing for MC roles at concerts, festivals, corporate events, and even state functions. Once the exclusive space of professional Masters of Ceremony, the microphone is now being contested by comic personalities whose humour-driven appeal is attracting organisers.
So, in this evolving landscape, what should MCs do to stay relevant, respected or booked?
- Redefine the Role Beyond Jokes
MCs must move away from the outdated idea that their job is to “crack jokes.” A true MC is a show architect who controls time, manages transitions, sets the tone, engages diverse audiences, and protects the flow of an event. While comedians thrive on punchlines, MCs must sell structure, control, and professionalism.
- Sharpen Crowd Intelligence, Not Just Humour
Comedians rely on laughter. MCs must master crowd reading, knowing when to excite, calm, pause, improvise, or move on. Emotional intelligence, diplomacy, and cultural awareness are now key currencies. An MC who can handle tense moments, protocol-heavy events, or unpredictable technical issues is invaluable.
- Brand Yourself as an Experience, not a Personality
Comedians sell personality. MCs must sell experience. Position yourself as the person who guarantees smooth events, satisfied clients, and happy audiences. Strong branding, testimonials, event clips, and professional profiles are no longer optional; they are survival tools.
- Upgrade Skills Relentlessly
Today’s MC must be multi-skilled: basic event production knowledge, voice control, diction, live interviewing, stage blocking, and even conflict management. The more problems you can solve on stage, the harder it becomes to replace you with a comedian.
- Know Your Lane – and Own It
Not every event needs a comedian-style MC. Corporate gatherings, awards nights, conferences, diplomatic functions, and cultural ceremonies demand poise, clarity, and protocol awareness. MCs who understand and dominate these lanes will always be in demand.
- Collaborate, Don’t Compete Blindly
Instead of rivalry, smart MCs can collaborate with comedians hosting events where comedy is a segment, not the spine. This positions the MC as the anchor, and the comedian is a feature, restoring balance and respect for roles.
The fight for MC roles is not a threat; it is a wake-up call. Comedians are adapting. MCs must do the same. Those who evolve from microphone holders to event leaders will not only survive this shift, but they will also define the future of live events.
Award-winning Ghanaian rapper and songwriter Amerado has released his latest single titled “Aseda”, a powerful hiplife collaboration that brings together some of the most influential voices from Kumasi and beyond.
The song features an all-star lineup including Strongman, Kweku Flick, Oseikrom Sikani, Ypee, Kofi Jamar, Okyeame Kwame, and gospel powerhouse Brother Sammy, with production handled by hitmakerQhola Beatz.
Aseda, which translates to “Thanksgiving” in Twi, is a triumphant celebration of gratitude, resilience, faith, and success. Each artist delivers a heartfelt verse reflecting on their journey, victories, and the grace that has carried them through life’s challenges. Brother Sammy crowns the record with a soul-stirring praise segment, turning the song into both a street anthem and a spiritual moment.
With its vibrant hiplife sound and message of unity, Aseda stands as a cultural statement honouring the strength of brotherhood within the Kumasi music community and reminding listeners to always give thanks.
The song is now available on all major digital streaming platforms.
Stream “Aseda” here:
https://onerpm.link/
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