Popular Ghanaian MC and hypeman, Kojo Manuel, has called on authorities and stakeholders to do more to uplift the creative arts sector, not just for artistes but also for the other creatives behind them.
In an interview with GhanaWeb’s Elsie Lamar, Kojo Manuel said the creative space currently lacks the structures necessary for sustainable growth, adding that most creatives are struggling to make ends meet.
People expect you to be ‘rough’ because of the work you do – Kojo Manuel
“I feel like the authorities, when it comes to the creative space, are not doing enough to help it. There has to be talent management and a lot of entities that are supposed to guide creatives and help them move.
“Because now, most creatives are moving hand-to-mouth. Meanwhile, aside from the artistes, the DJ, MCs, dancers, etc are necessary for the creative space. But people do not value them,” he said on Talkertainment on GhanaWeb TV.
He stressed that formal talent management structures and targeted funding or grants could empower DJs, MCs, and dancers.
“If we have a lot of these agencies and government-sanctioned checks to pump into the industry, creatives will make more money and will be able to afford certain benefits, like a management team, to help them move.
“So, if certain things are put in place, it will go a long way to grow the creative arts industry,” he added.
He argued that with stronger structures, such as mentorship programs, grants, and talent development agencies, creatives could be better supported to do more than just survive.
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Watch the full interview with Kojo Manuel below:
