Veteran actors were not paid enough to probably invest - Akosua Abdallah

Ghanaian veteran actress, Akosua Abdallah, has highlighted the reasons behind the financial struggles many actors face after retirement.

Speaking exclusively on the latest episode of Talkertainment with Elsie Lamar on GhanaWeb TV, Dr. Abdallah pointed out that inadequate income during their acting careers is a major factor contributing to the financial difficulties of many veteran actors in their retirement years.

She contrasted this with today's actors, especially those involved in collaborations with Nollywood, who receive better pay and can therefore plan for their futures more effectively.

“We need to look at investment. It's important to invest for post-retirement and I think as artistes, probably because we were not paid enough, some didn't. But the young actors and actresses now, with the collaboration with Nollywood, etc. I think they're being paid more money and so they're able to invest for their post-retirement.

“But during our time, you could do a production and probably end up with just GH₵1000, and that is just transport. It doesn't even take care or cater for your costume that you use,” she said.

Dr. Abdallah expressed optimism that the current generation of actors will not face the same hardships if they prioritise financial investment.

She encouraged them to take their earnings seriously and plan for post-retirement stability.

She also acknowledged the strides made by today's actors and actresses, suggesting that they are better positioned to avoid situations where they have to seek financial support during illness or other hardships.

“I think they have come a very long way. And with a new generation, I don't envisage this kind of problem for them, soliciting support when they're sick, etc. But there's the need to probably have some kind of investment, something for artists across Africa,” she added.

Reflecting on the government's support for actors and creatives, Dr. Abdallah noted its importance but also emphasised the need for personal initiative in financial planning.

She stressed that while the government's support is beneficial, creatives should also take responsibility for investing their earnings wisely.

Dr. Akosua Abdallah's illustrious 40-year career began with coordinating drama in Senior High Schools in Tamale before moving to GBC as an assistant director for arts and religious TV programs.

She later joined Abibigromma as an actress and eventually rose to Deputy Executive Director of the National Theatre.

In 2017, Dr. Abdallah transitioned to the National Commission on Culture, focusing on youth cultural development through partnerships, staff development, and festival participation, enhancing skills across the cultural spectrum.

She also served on the Governing Council of AUCC and the International Theatre Institute.

Watch the full video here



ID/EB