Actress and entrepreneur Lydia Forson has appealed to the government to treat Ghanaian entertainers with the same respect and privileges given to visiting Hollywood stars.
She lamented that Ghanaian entertainers are often denied access to state properties and privileges, while their counterparts from the Diaspora receive red-carpet treatment.
“…and give them access that you will never give me. Access to helicopters, to hotels, to discounts, to do Hip hop ray at Jubilee House that you will not give me, it is a mindset…I have no problem with them bringing entertainers because I have a lot of great friends outside who come to town,” she said.
Lydia Forson compared Ghana to Nigeria, noting that Nigerians prioritize their own entertainers and treat them with equal respect. “If you go to Lagos, I hate these comparisons, but it’s the reality. They will never treat an outsider better than they will treat you; they will treat you on the same level. So, if you’ve invited this person here and say that Lydia, we are trying to take this person to this safari, come along,” she explained.
She emphasized the need for Ghanaians to treat themselves with respect and dignity, saying, “We have to treat ourselves with the same kind of respect, and other people will respect us.”
Lydia Forson shared a personal experience where she was acknowledged by a Chief in the presence of visiting Hollywood stars, creating a “worth-knowing” experience. She urged for similar respect to be given to Ghanaian entertainers.
Lydia Forson made the call during an interview on TV3’s New Day show, where she expressed her concerns and hopes for a more inclusive and supportive entertainment industry in Ghana.
