Ibrahim Mahama warns against politics killing creativity

Business mogul Ibrahim Mahama has called on Ghanaians to nurture and promote young talent instead of destroying it through political bias and division.

Speaking in a casual conversation with entertainers and bloggers on Saturday, the philanthropist and younger brother of President John Dramani Mahama said Ghana’s progress depends on unity and support for emerging talent across all sectors.

“You will always find very good talent, and you think that talent doesn’t have a platform. Manage the talent,” he said. “Even if that talent becomes a star somewhere, they will hold your hand and bring you [with them]. But when we see a talent, we want to kill it — ‘Oh, this person is not NDC,’ ‘This one is not NPP.’”

Mr. Mahama stressed that such attitudes stifle innovation and deny young people the opportunity to excel.

“With togetherness, we can do so much,” he added, urging Ghanaians to focus on collaboration rather than partisanship.

He praised Ghana’s creative potential, saying the country remains a peaceful and fertile ground for artistic and entrepreneurial growth. “We have a fantastic country,” he said. “My friends from Nigeria say they live in organized chaos, but when they come to Ghana, they feel relaxed. We own the country, but we don’t see its qualities.”

Mr. Mahama, who is the founder of Engineers and Planners, is well known for his charitable work.

Over the years, he has paid for the surgeries of people in need and provided financial support to brilliant but needy students. His philanthropy has earned him widespread respect beyond business circles.

He said the media and entertainment industry can help shape a more positive national attitude by highlighting success stories and creating platforms for creative expression.

“You guys [in the media] do your best too. Entertain us,” he urged. “Once we relax one day, we will come and join you.”

Mr. Mahama’s remarks have since drawn praise online for emphasizing unity, mentorship, and collective national progress.