Veteran Actor Jagga Pee Urges President Mahama to Establish Welfare Fund for Ghana's Aging Entertainers

Veteran actor Abeiku Nyame, widely recognized by his screen name Jagga Pee, has made a passionate appeal to President John Dramani Mahama to prioritize the creation of a dedicated welfare fund and pension scheme for the nation's veteran actors and actresses. Highlighting the precarious financial state of many who have dedicated their lives to the Ghanaian film industry, Nyame emphasized that unlike formal sector employees, entertainers often lack any form of social security or retirement benefits. This systemic gap leaves veteran performers increasingly vulnerable to poverty and health challenges as they age and roles become scarce.

Central to the veteran actor's concern is the shifting dynamic within the Ghanaian movie industry, which he describes as shrinking rather than defunct. Jagga Pee pointed out a disturbing trend where younger actors are frequently cast in roles traditionally suited for older performers, further diminishing the limited opportunities available to veterans. He noted that this practice not only compromises the artistic integrity of productions but also strips older actors of their primary source of livelihood. By comparing the local scene to Nigeria’s Nollywood, he observed that actors in the neighboring country enjoy significantly better remuneration, allowing them to save for their future more effectively than their Ghanaian counterparts.

The actor was quick to clarify that his appeal is rooted in genuine concern for the industry's welfare rather than political expediency. He acknowledged President Mahama’s historical record of supporting the creative arts, expressing confidence that the President has the vision to implement a structured support system that protects cultural icons in their later years. According to Nyame, such a fund would serve as a lifeline for those who have contributed immensely to the country's cultural heritage but now find themselves sidelined by an evolving and competitive market. He urged the government to recognize the arts as a vital sector requiring institutional protection for its practitioners.

As the conversation around the sustainability of the creative arts intensifies, Jagga Pee’s call underscores the urgent need for a national policy that addresses the long-term well-being of entertainers. Establishing a pension scheme would not only provide a safety net for aging stars but also professionalize the industry, making it more sustainable for future generations. The veteran actor’s plea serves as a reminder that the preservation of Ghana's cinematic history depends heavily on the dignity and financial security of those who helped build it.