The recent decision by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to grant diplomatic passports to five talented Ghanaian creatives has sparked admiration and reflection in the arts community. Among those who reacted is veteran traditional musician King Ayisoba.

He believes his efforts to promote Ghana’s indigenous music globally also deserve recognition. In an interview with broadcaster Kafui Dey, a clip of which was shared on X (formerly Twitter), the the music legend stated that his lifelong commitment to showcasing Ghana’s traditional sound internationally warrants acknowledgment.

“I cannot say that the people who received the diplomatic passports don’t deserve them. Rocky Dawuni has worked hard—it is not easy to be nominated for a Grammy. But I hope they will also think about me because, if we are being honest, I’m one of the best when it comes to Ghanaian music traditions,” he said.

King Ayisoba, known for blending traditional kologo rhythms with modern elements, made it clear that his comments were not made out of envy. He expressed respect for the honorees while urging for greater recognition of musicians who preserve Ghana’s cultural identity through traditional art forms.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, recently announced that five Ghanaian creatives—travel vlogger Wode Maya, Grammy-nominated artist Rocky Dawuni, broadcaster Anita Erskine, visual artist Ibrahim Mahama, and entrepreneur Dentaa Amoateng MBE—received diplomatic passports for their outstanding role in promoting African unity and creativity worldwide.

Read Also:I only want to collaborate with Grammy-winning artistes – King Ayisoba
The announcement was made during the official launch of the Ghana Diaspora Summit & Awards Gala 2025, held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Accra. Mr. Ablakwa explained that the honor was given under the authority granted to the Foreign Minister by NLCD 155. He emphasized that this initiative aims to strengthen Ghana’s diplomatic efforts by empowering cultural ambassadors who drive trade, tourism, and soft power diplomacy.

The honorees have also been named ambassadors for the upcoming 2025 Diaspora Summit, which is scheduled for December 17 to 20 in Accra. Diplomatic passports, which usually offer special travel privileges, are typically meant for government officials and state representatives. However, the ministry’s recent action highlights Ghana’s increasing recognition of creatives as essential contributors to cultural diplomacy.





Source: ameyawdebrah.com/

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