Veteran Ghanaian actor and brand influencer, Mikki Osei Berko, has strongly criticized the dominance of foreign telenovelas on local television.

In a candid interview on Talkertainment with Elsie Lamar on GhanaWebTV, he did not hold back in describing the practice as “criminal.” Here are six key takeaways from his argument:

1. Telenovelas Are Killing Local Storytelling

Berko believes that airing foreign telenovelas is preventing Ghanaian filmmakers from telling their own stories. “Because we are not telling our own stories, but they get to bring them into the country,” he lamented, comparing it to importing dead chickens instead of investing in local poultry farms.

2. Local Actors and Producers Are Losing Jobs

By prioritizing foreign content, television executives are denying Ghanaian actors, directors, and producers the opportunity to thrive. “We are paying foreign directors and actors while our own actors and producers don’t have jobs, and that is criminal,” he stated.

3. It’s an Economic Drain on the Country

Berko argues that Ghanaian television stations are spending money on foreign productions instead of reinvesting in the local creative industry. This, according to him, is damaging to the economy and unfair to local professionals.

4. TV Executives Should Be Held Accountable

The actor did not mince words when he suggested that television station executives who prioritize foreign content over Ghanaian productions should face consequences. “I think executives of television stations that show these programmes should be arrested for doing that because they are killing the economy,” he declared.

5. There Is an Urgent Need for Media Reform

To protect the future of Ghana’s entertainment industry, Berko insists that local media houses must be compelled to prioritize Ghanaian content. “Media houses should be made to show Ghanaian content instead of foreign content; it is a must, and it is one of these things that I will fight for when I get the opportunity,” he emphasized.

6. The Impact Extends Beyond the Entertainment Industry

Berko pointed out that investing in local productions benefits not just actors but the entire nation. “Our work doesn’t bring money to only our pockets; it serves the country as well,” he stated, highlighting the broader economic and cultural significance of the creative arts.

Don’t miss out! Get your daily dose of Entertainment news and more straight to your phone. Join Ghana Street Journal Whatsapp channel now!