“Recognise Creatives While They’re Alive!” – Derrick Manny Speaks Out After Dede Padiki’s Death

Ghanaian entertainment pundit Derrick Manny has criticised state institutions for what he describes as a recurring culture of celebrating creatives only after their death, using the late Guinness World Records title holder Dede Padiki as a prime example.

Speaking on Kessben Entertainment on Kessben FM with host Kojo Preko Dankwa, Derrick Manny questioned why institutions such as the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) and the Creative Arts Agency (CAA) failed to publicly celebrate and support Dede Padiki during her lifetime despite her historic achievement.

According to him, many Ghanaians have attempted various Guinness World Records challenges over the years, but only a few have successfully secured official titles. He argued that those who actually win deserve recognition and support from the country’s institutions.

He contrasted Dede Padiki’s situation with that of Afua Asantewaa, who attempted the Sing-a-thon but did not secure a Guinness World Records title. Despite that, he noted, Afua Asantewaa was appointed a Tourism Ambassador by the Ghana Tourism Authority and received widespread national recognition.

Derrick Manny said it is difficult to understand why Dede Padiki, who successfully earned a Guinness World Records title as the world’s longest individual painting marathon holder, did not receive similar recognition, endorsements or support from institutions within Ghana’s creative arts sector.

He questioned where the Ghana Tourism Authority and the Creative Arts Agency were when Dede Padiki needed encouragement and recognition, adding that both institutions have now issued condolence messages following her passing.

“I’ve seen a statement from the Ghana Tourism Authority mourning Dede Padiki, and the Creative Arts Agency has also sympathised with her family. But where were these institutions when she was alive and had made Ghana proud?” he asked.

The entertainment pundit lamented what he described as Ghana’s tendency to overlook the achievements of creatives while they are alive, only to celebrate and honour them after they have passed away.

He urged stakeholders in the creative industry to develop a culture of recognising and rewarding outstanding achievements while artistes and creatives are still alive so they can benefit from the appreciation and inspire others.

Dede Padiki, celebrated for setting a Guinness World Records title in painting, passed away recently, prompting tributes from several institutions and personalities across the country. Her death has reignited conversations about how Ghana honours its creative talents during their lifetime.