Socrate Safo is a veteran Ghanaian filmmaker and entertainment pundit
Renowned filmmaker and entertainment pundit Socrate Safo has shared his thoughts on the debate over the constant featuring of foreign artistes (mainly Nigerians) as headliners in shows organised in Ghana.
According to him, such strategies are calculated and are aimed at maximising attendance, boosting tourism revenue, and elevating the international profile of Ghana’s December festival season.
Speaking in an interview with Graphic Showbiz, Safo described the features as a tit-for-tat affair, noting that it would also open the gates for Ghanaian acts to be featured on international stages.
“There is nothing really wrong with bringing in foreign artistes because we also want our artistes to go beyond our shores. And for that to happen, we need to create that platform for others, too. I see nothing wrong with it. It’s a two-way street,” Safo stated.
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He emphasised that the presence of Nigerian stars expands the audience beyond Ghana’s borders, attracting regional fans and creating a reciprocal pathway for Ghanaian artists to access Nigeria’s vast and influential market.
“All these events were attended by Nigerians too. By having their artistes perform, we are essentially inviting their fanbase to travel here. From a business perspective, it’s the right move. This synergy creates a regional hub that benefits everyone in the ecosystem, from hospitality providers to local vendors,” he added.
His comments come after the recent Detty December/December-in-Ghana festivities which saw various Nigerian artistes, including Burna Boy, Tiwa Savage, Asake, Ayra Starr, and Rema, feature in shows under the Black Star Experience banner, such as the Tidal Rave, Taste of Culture, Ghana in Praise and AfroFuture.
This came as a surprise to many Ghanaians who expected the celebrations to spotlight Ghanaian artistes more heavily.
Beyond the headline debate, Socrate Safo commended the GTA and event organizers for the overall execution of the December in GH programme, describing it as successful and impactful.
“I think it went well, and I commend the organisers, especially the GTA. Yes, they did well,” Safo concluded.
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