Ghanaian comedian Kwaku Sintim-Misa (KSM) has voiced concerns over the persistent challenges stifling Ghana’s economic progress, attributing them to nepotism, poor leadership, and misplaced priorities.

In a YouTube discussion, KSM lamented that the collapse of state-owned enterprises was largely due to prioritizing personal connections over competence, as well as the nation’s tendency to emphasize religion over economic development. He noted that these detrimental practices continue to hinder Ghana’s growth.

Reflecting on decisions made during the Provisional National Defence Council (PNDC) era in the late 20th century, he explained that the government faced a critical choice: either restructure state-owned enterprises or privatize them. Ultimately, Ghana opted for privatization, selling off numerous factories and state organizations.

“There were all these state organizations, but they were not generating enough revenue. At that point, Ghana had two choices: either re-engineer the thinking and recalibrate the agenda of these institutions by appointing competent managers, or sell them off to the private sector. We chose to sell them off.

“Incidentally, most of the factories and things that we sold didn't go into the private sector per se, but mostly into the hands of pastors who established chapels. They became churches instead of factories. The factories that used to employ people are no longer there. In place of that are churches,” KSM explained.

He emphasized that the lack of job opportunities has left many young people unemployed, forcing them to turn to religious gatherings instead of actively seeking work.

“There are no longer jobs for the youth, but there are big churches and they have great programs. Monday is worship night, and Tuesday is worship congregation. Friday is Friday night service. All the youth who have been left unemployed, instead of looking for work, will go to the church and then pray for work,” he stated.

KSM also criticized the culture of nepotism in the country, highlighting how favoritism in employment contributed to the downfall of state enterprises. He pointed out that appointments were often based on personal relationships rather than merit, leading to inefficiency and mismanagement.

“CEOs who should be in meetings with ministers are instead attending funerals. We employed relatives and friends, and that destroyed our state corporations. These foolish practices crushed us, and we are still doing it,” he said.

As a solution, KSM called for a fundamental shift in mindset, particularly among the youth. He stressed the need for a progressive and efficient approach to national development that aligns with the demands of modern society.

“The youth must understand that we need a change in our attitudes before anything else can improve. The mindset must change. Our current mindset does not fit into the modern world of dynamic progress. We are still thinking in an analogue way, but we are living in a digital generation,” he concluded.

His remarks serve as a call to action for Ghanaians to prioritize competence, innovation, and strategic leadership in order to foster sustainable economic growth.