Ghanaian broadcaster and comedian Dan Kwaku Yeboah has attributed the lack of serious investment in comedy and sports to the way Ghanaians describe these sectors in local languages—terms that he says diminish their value and economic potential.
Speaking in an interview on Entertainment Lounge with Roman Fada on Atinka TV, Dan Kwaku Yeboah highlighted the cultural mindset that views comedy and sports as playthings rather than powerful industries.
“In our local language, we refer to sports as agodie — meaning play — and comedy as gyemie — meaning fooling,” he said.
“So how can a politician or a corporate sponsor be expected to invest seriously in something we ourselves label as ‘fooling’?”
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According to the award-winning journalist, this mindset contributes to the systemic disregard for two industries that could serve as massive job creators for the youth of Ghana.
Yeboah noted that countries like Nigeria have turned comedy into a thriving industry because of both public appreciation and private investment.
He added that the use of derogatory language and dismissive cultural attitudes affects everything from policy decisions to funding support.
Despite these societal perceptions, comedy and sports are among the largest employers and revenue generators in countries that prioritize them. From ticket sales, event management, broadcast rights, to brand partnerships, the financial ecosystem surrounding these sectors is enormous.
Yeboah emphasized that if properly supported, these sectors could provide sustainable careers for thousands of young Ghanaians.
Despite the challenges, the Dan Kwaku Yeboah is putting his passion into action through another episode of show, “DKY Night of Comedy and Music,” happening on Friday, August 1, 2025, at the Accra International Conference Centre. The show starts at 8:00 PM sharp.
Top comedians Akrobeto and Clemento Suarez will co-host, with music performances by Samini, Kofi Kinaata, and other top talents. Tickets are on sale at Peace FM.
Ghana|Atinkaonline.com|Ebenezer Madugu