Ghana’s creative sector could soon see a significant boost as Daniel McKorley, CEO of McDan Group of Companies, has revealed his willingness to invest in the country’s vibrant arts and entertainment industry.
Known for his vast investments in aviation, logistics, and real estate, the billionaire entrepreneur, popularly called McDan, has turned his attention to a sector he believes holds enormous financial and cultural potential.
In an interview on BTM Afrika with NY DJ, McKorley shared his admiration for Ghanaian creatives, describing them as “super talented and hardworking” but often lacking the financial backing to push their careers forward.
He singled out top music stars Shatta Wale and Stonebwoy, stating, “I can tell you that Shatta Wale and Stonebwoy are some of the most talented artists in Africa. None of these Nigerian artists comes close to them, although they are also talented. Their music and stage performances are amazing.”
While McDan acknowledged that the creative space isn’t his primary business domain, he emphasized that the economic potential in the sector makes it worth supporting.
“That space brings a lot of money, and I smile where there’s good money,” McKorley noted. “It’s not my space, so I would want to sit back as the godfather to support financially, etc., people to get into that space.”
The CEO also made a passionate call to fellow business leaders, urging them to recognize the value of the creative industry and support Ghanaian creatives who, he said, serve as the nation’s cultural ambassadors.
“I believe in my heart that they need serious support from businessmen. They are our ambassadors, and I feel we need to invest more in them,” he said.
This isn’t McKorley’s first foray into the creative space. In 2022, he awarded George Quaye, a seasoned creative professional and actor, a $2 million contract during the McDan Youth Connect event held at KNUST, Kumasi.
Recalling Quaye’s journey from starring in the popular TV series Taxi Driver to leading major theatrical productions, McDan said, “You saw him in Taxi Driver like he was joking, but Aboagye [George Quaye] had a purpose. Today, he is sitting here in a suit.”
George Quaye, alongside Naa Ashorkor, has been a driving force in Ghanaian theatre, using his platform at ImageBureau to stage critically acclaimed plays that promote local storytelling.
With McDan’s growing interest and financial muscle, the creative industry in Ghana could be poised for a transformative era, attracting more private sector investment and nurturing emerging talents into global stars.
