Accra: In an industry where relevance can be fleeting, some Ghanaian celebrities have taken bold steps to secure their future by venturing into other businesses. Moving beyond music, film, and television, these stars have built brands that not only generate income but also create jobs and shape industries. These celebrities are proving that fame alone is not enough in today's world. By investing in businesses across food, beauty, hospitality, fashion, and education, they are building sustainable income streams and leaving lasting legacies. Here are the Ghanaian celebrities who have successfully carved a niche for themselves in the business world.
According to Ghana Web, Delay, known for her outspoken persona on The Delay Show, is a formidable entrepreneur off-screen. She founded Delay Foods, a fast-growing food processing company in Ghana. The brand offers a range of products, including canned sardines, mackerel, tomato paste, and bread, among others. Delay Foods has gained significant visibility in local markets and supermarkets, becoming one of the most successful celebrity-owned FMCG brands in the country. Her business success is often attributed to consistency, personal branding, and strategic marketing.
D-Black, primarily known as a rapper, has built an impressive business empire through the Black Avenue Group, overseeing ventures in entertainment and hospitality. He operates popular nightlife spots such as Club Onyx and Oasis Lounge in Accra, as well as a plush restaurant called La Maison. These venues have become hotspots for events, celebrity gatherings, and nightlife experiences, positioning him at the center of Ghana's hospitality scene. His ability to leverage his celebrity status into a thriving nightlife business has made him one of the most business-oriented artists in Ghana.
Fella Makafui has transitioned from acting to entrepreneurship with her brands 'Beauty by Fella Makafui', 'Simply Snatched', and 'Skinzone Spa'. Her business focuses on skincare, cosmetics, beauty products, and activewear, targeting a youthful market that resonates with her image and lifestyle. Through strong social media marketing and influencer branding, she has positioned her products within Ghana's growing beauty industry.
Reggie Rockstone, a pioneer of hiplife music, is also a trailblazer in business. He is the brains behind Rockstone's Office, one of Accra's most well-known entertainment and hospitality venues. Beyond the nightclub space, he has ventured into the food business with Rockz Waakye, promoting African identity.
Shatta Wale, beyond his music career, has created a movement through the Shatta Movement (SM) brand, selling merchandise, including branded clothing and accessories. Additionally, he is associated with Shaxi, a ride-hailing service aimed at creating jobs for the youth, and is linked as a co-owner/promoter of Hotwav Phones, a mobile phone brand marketed in Ghana.
Becca has invested in the beauty and wellness industry with her business, Kora Spa, located in Accra. The spa offers a range of services, including body treatments, skincare, and relaxation therapies. Her move into this space highlights the growing demand for wellness services in Ghana and shows her strategic diversification beyond music.
Mzbel has ventured into the food and hospitality sector with 'Bela's Pub', serving a variety of local and continental dishes. In addition, she has invested in a children's playground known as 'Belkids Playground', creating a family-friendly recreational space, showcasing her ability to diversify within the hospitality industry by catering to both adults and families.
Yvonne Nelson has taken a diversified approach, running Just Like Mama, a fast-growing educational facility, and owning YN Productions, a film production company responsible for several Ghanaian movies and series. Her investments reflect a blend of passion and long-term vision, particularly in education and content creation.
Salma Mumin has expanded beyond acting into fashion and hospitality. She owns 'Lure by Salma', a clothing brand, and runs 'Salma's Eatery', a restaurant business catering to food lovers with a variety of meals.