Blakk Rasta has slammed African leaders over their choices, arguing that their commitment to cultural identity and economic self-sufficiency should go beyond mere words.
The reggae artist and on-air personality passionately criticized Ghana’s continued reliance on imports despite the country’s ability to produce high-quality goods locally.
He emphasized that leadership is not just about policies but also about the everyday choices leaders make. “If a leader does not lead by example, you can imagine what the people he leads would behave like,” he stated.
He lamented the decline of Ghana’s once-thriving textile industry, attributing it to a lack of patriotism in consumer choices.
According to him, many Africans have developed an unhealthy preference for foreign products, disregarding the quality of locally made goods.
“No matter how much quality an African product is, we have a way of relegating it to the background, such that we might not patronize it. This is a sickness no doctor can cure.”
Blakk Rasta
Blakk Rasta’s critique extended beyond economic policies to the symbolic representation of leadership.
He praised President John Dramani Mahama for consistently wearing made-in-Ghana clothing, a move he described as “leadership by example.”
He noted that since Mahama took office, he had rarely been seen in a Western suit, choosing instead to embrace traditional attire that reflects Ghana’s rich heritage.
“From day one, he has been made in Ghana. Mr. President, you need to continue with that.”
Blakk Rasta
Blakk Rasta also took a strong stance against what he describes as the failure of African leadership to practice what they preach.
He criticized the hypocrisy of leaders who promote economic self-reliance while relying on foreign goods.
“Africa Beyond Aid, I was waiting for action. Eight years down the line, Africa Beyond Aid was nothing but a slogan.”
Blakk Rasta
Blakk Rasta pointed out the contradiction in leaders advocating for intra-African trade while visibly adorning themselves in imported suits and shoes. He singled out former President Nana Akufo-Addo, questioning his commitment to the initiative.
“What kind of President was this? Most of the time, he was wearing a suit, yet he was encouraging African governments to trade among themselves. His suits and shoes were all coming from Italy, America, and England.”
Blakk Rasta
The reggae artist and radio host argued that leadership should set the example, emphasizing that a leader who does not embody his own policies weakens their effectiveness.
Blakk Rasta Advises Artists on Branding
The Ghanaian musician and radio host urged Ghanaian artists to prioritize branding and career investment over purchasing luxury cars and houses.
He emphasized that proper branding is essential for global recognition and long-term success.
According to him, artists should focus on enhancing their craft rather than spending on flashy assets. “Branding isn’t about cars and houses alone; it is about your career. Spend on your career,” he stated.
Blakk Rasta cited gospel musician Sonnie Badu as an example of an artist who has successfully built his brand.
He noted that Badu’s ability to attract large audiences both in Ghana and abroad is a result of the effort and resources he has put into his craft.
“Look at Sonnie Badu; he invests in his shows, the kind of people he invites to perform, the people he parades on stage and the number of people he’s able to amass at his shows.”
Blakk Rasta
Conversely, the radio show host expressed concern over dancehall artist Stonebwoy’s approach to stagecraft.
He mentioned feeling disheartened when observing certain deficiencies in Stonebwoy’s performances, suggesting that increased investment in stage production could enhance the artist’s shows.
His comments come amid an ongoing controversy between Stonebwoy’s management and UK-based event organizers, Akwaaba UK.
The disagreement stems from allegations of sabotage, with Stonebwoy’s manager, Chief Stylz, accusing Akwaaba UK of attempting to undermine the artist’s UK tour.
In response, Akwaaba UK’s CEO, Dennis Tawiah, denied the claims, stating that their event date was secured long before Stonebwoy’s tour was announced. He dismissed the allegations as baseless.
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