Renowned Reggae and Dancehall artist Samini has taken to the media to clarify misconceptions surrounding his recent collaboration with the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA). The artist, along with his management, met with Gilbert Abeiku Aggrey, known popularly as Abeiku Santana, who serves as the Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the GTA. This encounter sparked a wave of criticism, particularly from supporters of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), given Samini's vocal support for the New Patriotic Party (NPP).
The meeting aimed to explore potential partnerships for SafariFest, or Saminifest, a vibrant cultural and creative arts festival slated for later this year. Although the initiative is designed to promote tourism and celebrate Ghanaian culture, the implications of Samini's affiliation with the governing party have led to contentious discussions among political factions.
In an interview with George Quaye on Joy Prime, broadcast on June 18, 2025, Samini expressed his dismay over the backlash generated by his visit. He firmly stated that his intention was purely business, emphasizing that he did not seek or receive any preferential treatment from the GTA. “I believe party foot soldiers should not perceive Ghanaians as divided based on political allegiance,” Samini remarked, stressing the importance of inclusivity in national discourse.
The uproar can be traced back to a misinterpreted social media post by an NDC supporter, which suggested that Abeiku Santana had invited Samini for special favors—a narrative that the artist vehemently disputes. “The implication was that I was being handed opportunities that should rightfully belong to party supporters,” he noted. Samini went on to explain the essence of his meeting, clarifying that his objective was to introduce and promote his cultural project rather than engage in political favoritism.
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Samini emphasized that the GTA is a government institution designed to serve all Ghanaians, regardless of their political affiliations. “The office Abeiku occupies does not belong to a political party,” he explained. “Tourism is for everyone, and any Ghanaian involved in this sector should feel empowered to engage with it without fear of political bias.”
The artist's remarks underline the importance of separating cultural initiatives from political divisions, insisting that Ghana’s tourism and creative sectors should remain unaffected by partisan politics. He advocated for a more unified approach, where initiatives like Saminifest not only promote national pride but also foster collaboration across the political spectrum. As the festival approaches, Samini hopes to reshape the narrative surrounding his involvement, encouraging a spirit of unity and innovation in the country’s cultural landscape.
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