The creative arts sector in Ghana has long been a vibrant tapestry of culture, history, and innovation.
From music and dance to visual arts and literature, the contributions of creatives have shaped the nation’s identity and provided a platform for social commentary and cultural expression.
However, as the industry evolves, a concerning trend has emerged: the neglect of aged creatives.
Ghanaian actor, Fiifi Coleman has expressed his sentiments on the public appeals for support for aged actors, stating that the issue went beyond a mere crisis.
The plight of aged actors in Ghana is a longstanding problem that has been neglected for far too long.
Fiifi Coleman mentioned that these veterans dedicated their lives to the entertainment industry, bringing joy and excitement to countless fans. Yet, they were often left to struggle in their old age.
“How many times have we seen our colleagues fall sick and watch helplessly as the public rallies to raise funds for their health care? How many funerals have we attended wondering how those who entertained millions couldn’t afford a dignified farewell?
“This isn’t just a crisis but a failed work. A failure of an industry to protect its own. A failure of a community to ensure the hands that feed them and built our dreams don’t crumble in despair.”
Fiifi Coleman
Many aged creatives in Ghana struggle to secure a stable income. As they retire from active performance or production, their financial stability often diminishes.
Without adequate pensions or retirement plans, many find themselves in precarious situations, relying on family support or meager savings.
The contributions of older artists are frequently overshadowed by the newer generation of creatives.
While emerging artists receive significant media attention and opportunities, many aged artists find it challenging to gain visibility for their work. This lack of recognition can lead to feelings of isolation and neglect.
Aging often brings health challenges, and for many artists, the lack of access to healthcare exacerbates their struggles.
The physical demands of creative work take a toll, and without adequate support, many older creatives face significant barriers to maintaining their health and well-being.
The neglect of aged creatives in Ghana has far-reaching implications, not only for the individuals involved but also for the broader creative landscape.
When older artists are marginalized, the rich history and knowledge they possess risk being lost. Their experiences and insights are invaluable for mentoring younger generations and preserving cultural heritage.
Moreover, the decline in support for aged creatives leads to a homogenization of the creative sector, where only the voices of the young and trendy are heard, while the depth and diversity offered by seasoned artists are overlooked.
This lack of diversity stifles innovation and limits the cultural richness of the artistic community.
A Call for Action
Addressing the neglect of aged creatives in Ghana requires a multifaceted approach.
The government and relevant stakeholders must develop policies that specifically address the needs of aged artists.
This includes establishing pension schemes, healthcare support, and funding opportunities tailored to older creatives.
Describing veterans as trailblazers, he said that it was rather unfortunate they were left at the mercy of the public in their most vulnerable states due to the lack of a sustainable system to support them.
He mentioned that it was important to create a relevant framework to ensure aged actors were well taken care of, not just when they were in crisis, but throughout their lives and the Private Welfare Scheme hoped to achieve that.
Paying tributes to some deceased actors such as SK. Ampofo, George Williams, Ekow Blankson, Super OD, Bob Santo, Araba Stamp, and Psalm Adejeteyfio, among others, and living veterans, including Fred Amugi, Ben Abdallah, Mawuli Semevor, Edinam Atatsi, Fiifi commended them for setting the right path for the young generation of actors to enjoy today.
He, therefore, challenged his colleagues to adopt an aged, sick or those they know couldn’t afford to pay their insurance.
“What Fiifi Coleman Productions is trying to do here is to encourage those of us lucky to be in an industry in this age to be blessed with money, to be blessed with the wherewithal, to be blessed with the grace to affect other people’s lives to support our veterans.
“I’ve always said that back in the day, if social media were in existence, some of us might be driving the biggest Benz cars and that is the same with some aged actors who set the pace but couldn’t enjoy the fruits of their labour.”
Fiifi Coleman
Initiatives that celebrate the contributions of aged artists help raise awareness and appreciation for their work. Awards, exhibitions, and public forums provide platforms for older creatives to share their experiences and showcase their talents.
Offering workshops and training programs specifically designed for older artists helps them adapt to new technologies and trends within the industry.
This empowerment enables them to continue contributing actively to the creative landscape.
The neglect of aged creatives in Ghana is a pressing issue that warrants immediate attention. As the country continues to celebrate its rich cultural heritage, it is crucial to recognize and support the contributions of older artists.
By implementing systemic changes and fostering an inclusive creative environment, Ghana ensures that the voices of its aged creatives are not only heard but celebrated.
Their legacy is an integral part of the nation’s identity, and it is a collective responsibility to honor and preserve it for future generations.
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