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Budding comedians must have tough skin – Abdul Waris Omaru
Critics say Ghanaian comedians are not witty enough and it is not a ‘career’ worth pursuing if anybody intends to make ends meet.
Others hold the view that some of the performers only repeat common jokes or even end up stirring controversies. Few of them have, in the past, ‘taken bullets’ for jokes people considered offensive.
But that is not all. The onset of the novel corona virus has also led to somewhat ‘poor visibility’ of stage comedy shows especially in the capital city, Accra, as it was previously not the case.
In spite of this, there are still some individuals who have yet not thrown in the towel on the craft but continue to find alternative ways of lighting up the mood of their fans.
One of them is Abdul Waris Omaru, who goes by the stage name ‘Comedian Waris.’ He has gained some attention on social media and other public spaces as he continues to thrill fans who find gratification in laughing out loud.
When The Spectator caught up with him recently, he said that he did not have plans of joining the industry but eventually found himself on stage through an audition in 2016.
According to him, he took up comedy because it gave him “quick money” compared to his previous job as a producer at Top FM, an Accra-based radio station.
The former student of Odorgono Senior High School, touching on his life and experience, said he worked at a spare parts company, a cement and concrete factory, and served also in other capacities as a security man, after completing school.
He later on took up a multimedia course and had internship at some radio stations before deciding to embark on his new journey.
“I was working as a Sound Engineer and Producer at Top FM in Accra. I auditioned at one of DKB’s comedy shows and I subsequently had some coaching from him and other actors in the industry who are still coaching me,” he said.
Asked about how much income he earned, the comedian, born in Kumasi Aboabo in the Ashanti Region, explained that his standard of living had been improving since he started comedy.
“I work with time so when I perform every five minutes, I earn GH¢ 1,500.00. When I was a sound engineer I was paid GH¢ 300.00 at the end of the month.
To further prove that he was, indeed, ‘making money’, he stressed: “when I was a sound engineer I was using a ‘yam phone’. Now, I use an iPhone.”
Waris, also a content creator, said that he had been featured in a movie titled ‘Akwaaba’ with popular comedian Clemento Suarez.
Apart from stage comedy, he again works with some companies as an ‘influencer’ to attract clients and help increase patronage of goods and services of those entities.
He admitted not doing any stage comedy in the past five months but continues to post short comedy skits regularly on Instagram.
Contrary to popular views, he insisted that comedy is worth pursuing, provided the “actor branded himself or herself very well.”
“Everything you want to do pays but it depends on how you package yourself. I think I am doing it to my optimum best and I am making money although I am not yet at the top.
“It is better than working and waiting several months before you are paid,” he stated sarcastically.
Waris said “the sky remains the limit,” as he is considered among some of the top comedians in country. He posts new funny videos frequently on his channel and interacts with fans to push his brand.
“I get good feedback from my audience and it is getting better. A lot of people started ahead of me. I started four years ago and if I am counted among the top 10 comedians I think it is a good signal,” he added.
Comedian Waris came under fire about two years ago from making comments about musician Sakordie’s little daughter, which sections of the public considered inappropriate. But he was quick to apologise and retract the unfortunate comments he made, whether knowingly or unknowingly.
He advised that budding comedians must have a tough skin, develop creative concepts to attract audience and go “a little crazy on stage.”
“I hope more people would embrace comedy, and when everything is set, I am sure we will derive the outmost benefit from our shows.”
“They (comedians) must know that jokes alone do not pay the bills but they should keep pushing,” he said.
Warris said he was on the verge of establishing a foundation to mentor young people and help them attain their goals in life through their talent.
He did not disclose his relationship status but said he had a “lot of girls” who admired him and indicated that he would soon settle down “with the one his heart decides.”
By Ernest Nutsugah
Profile
Juventus Duorinaah, Ghana’s first deaf Lawyer
In a landmark moment for Ghana’s legal landscape, Juventus Duorinaah Esq., has etched his name in history as the country’s first lawyer with a hearing impairment.
His journey from a humble background to breaking barriers in the legal profession serves as a powerful inspiration for countless individuals in the disability community, proving that determination and resilience can defy societal expectations and create pathways to success.
For Juventus, the recognition as Ghana’s first deaf lawyer feels surreal.
“It feels like a dream,” he reflects, acknowledging the stereotypes surrounding deafness and the humble background from which he hails.
Juventus’ passion for law sparked in 2008 while seeking admission to the University of Ghana (UG). Although he initially faced challenges due to the nature of the application process, the help of his older brother and his determined spirit led him to pursue a Bachelor of Arts degree in 2012, followed by a Master of Laws at Cardiff University in 2014.
His passion for the study of law became highly intense when he had to study alongside qualified lawyers from several jurisdictions, even though he did not have a legal background. Here, he faced the unique challenge of studying without sign language interpreters, relying instead on a palantypist to transcribe lectures.
Juventus’ role model was his professor and mentor, Professor Luke Clement, who profoundly inspired him in shaping his understanding of law and human rights.
He remembers Prof. Thomas Stephens from the University of Ghana School Of Law, who inspired him with his way of dressing, in-depth knowledge of the law and engagement with students.
He recounts the enormous challenges he encountered during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, when lectures moved online, and Dr Stephen’s tremendous support to ensure things moved quickly and smoothly for him.
“I also had the chance to have a few classes with the Dean himself, Prof. Raymond Atuguba. He taught the course such that some of us never felt scared as other lecturers made the course,’ he recalled.
Juventu’s academic journey was fraught with challenges, particularly in communication.
The year 2007 was the last time he studied with deaf peers. He was often the only deaf person in his classes throughout the following years of his education, which made interaction with peers difficult.
Despite these hurdles, he remained high-spirited, studying late into the night and seeking help from kind classmates when necessary.
Reflecting on his academic experience at UG, he connected his affection for the university to his older brother, who is also an alumnus. He felt inspired to be a student of the premier university, saying he would choose the University of Ghana any time, any day, if given the chance to further his studies or work.
The University Of Ghana School Of Law, along with its Dean, Professor Raymond Atuguba, the Director of Legal Education of the Ghana School of Law, Yaw Bramiah Oppong, and his capable team, including the Registrar and Deputy Registrar of the Ghana School of Law and the Office for Students with Special Needs (UG), made significant contributions to his journey.
Prof. Atuguba acknowledged Juventus’ achievement as evidence of the university’s commitment to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion.
Commenting on how the school accommodated his special needs, Prof. Atugugba explained that ‘In the case of Juventus, we worked closely with him to understand and address his special needs, ensuring he had access to the teaching and learning resources in the appropriate formats that would support his academic journey.
Professor Atuguba noted that Juventus’s journey is just beginning, and the future holds promise for him and the many lives he aims to touch along the way.
Juventus’s close friend, Ida Esi McOwusu Esq., described her first encounter with Juventus as ‘intriguing.’ “My first meeting with Juventus was in class, where he sat right in front of me in first year,” Ida reveals. She was intrigued and wanted to find out more about him, especially how Juventus navigated his way to this level. “I got closer and we became friends from there,” she remarked.
Mr Francis Kweku Essel, Juventus’ interpreter, shed light on the primary challenges he faced in carrying out his job, particularly the complex nature of legal terminology and concepts. This validates Ida’s comment on the interpreters’ lack of legal background as a challenge Lawyer Duorinaah encountred.
Juventus dreams of becoming a judge and aims to enhance justice delivery while serving as a role model for young people with disabilities.
He is currently mentoring a group of young deaf students interested in pursuing law, hoping to pave the way for future generations. What’s next for Lawyer Juventus? His next step is to complete his pupilage, after which he can decide further his legal career.
Profile
Dr. Christopher Baasongti Beyere …A visionary leader who triumphs through adversity
DR. Christopher Baasongti Beyere, the Member of Parliament-elect for Techiman South Constituency, is a trailblazing leader whose journey to political prominence is as inspiring as his contributions to health and education.
A man of resilience, intellect, and service, Dr. Beyere’s story exemplifies the triumph of determination and commitment over adversity.
A Multifaceted Leader with Transformative Achievements
Dr. Beyere’s professional and academic accomplishments are vast and impactful. He is a PhD holder in Global Health from Queen Margaret University, Edinburgh, where his research on motivation policies for Ghanaian health workers reshaped staff development strategies.
A man of interdisciplinary expertise, he also holds an MSc in International Health from Brandeis University, an MA in International Human Resource Management from Manchester Metropolitan University, and a BSc in Information Technology from Methodist University.
His academic journey culminated with an LLB from the University College of Science, Arts, and Education, the Gambia Law School, Banjul, making him a barrister and solicitor of the Supreme Court of The Gambia, called to the Bar in November 2024.
Dr. Beyere’s work in the health sector has transformed Ghana’s healthcare landscape.
As Executive Secretary of the Health Training Institutions Secretariat, he spearheaded numerous initiatives, including upgrading post-basic programs to degree and master’s levels, introducing male midwifery training, and establishing the “Best Health Tutor Award” to motivate educators.
His efforts also led to the construction of a 75-bedroom guesthouse for principals of nursing training schools, showcasing his dedication to improving infrastructure and capacity for education.
In his role as Vice President of the University College of Science, Arts, and Education in Sunyani, Dr. Beyere has continued to champion educational innovation, ensuring that academic and non-academic functions align with the institution’s mission to nurture future leaders.
The Political Journey: Resilience and Triumph
Dr. Beyere’s political career has been marked by both challenges and victories. In the 2020 parliamentary election, his initial bid to represent Techiman South faced fierce resistance.
The election was fraught with controversy, culminating in a narrow defeat to Martin Kwaku Adjei-Mensah Korsah of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), who polled 49,682 votes against Dr. Beyere’s 49,205. The results were contested, leading to a protracted court case that added to the emotional toll of the loss.
However, Dr. Beyere’s resilience never wavered. With renewed vigor, he returned to the political arena in 2024, determined to serve his people. This time, he secured a decisive victory, polling 44,986 votes across 282 polling stations, surpassing his perennial opponent, Martin Kwaku Adjei-Mensah Korsah, who garnered 43,730 votes.
His triumph was a testament to his unwavering commitment to the people of Techiman South, who recognized his vision and trusted his leadership.
A Leader of Compassion and Vision
Dr. Beyere’s political success is rooted in his ability to connect with people from all walks of life. During his time at the Gambia Law School in Banjul, he was beloved by his colleagues for his humility and sense of camaraderie. These qualities have endeared him to his constituents, who see in him a leader committed to their welfare.
Beyond his political and professional achievements, Dr. Beyere has consistently demonstrated a passion for empowering others. His initiatives in education and healthcare, coupled with his international collaborations, underscore his dedication to creating opportunities and driving sustainable development.
A Future of Hope and Progress
As he takes his place in Parliament, Dr. Beyere is poised to bring transformative leadership to Techiman South. His vision for the constituency includes advancing healthcare, education, and infrastructural development while fostering a sense of unity and purpose among his people.
Dr. Christopher Baasongti Beyere’s journey—from overcoming electoral challenges to becoming a symbol of hope and progress—is a shining example of what perseverance and dedication can achieve. With his wealth of experience, both locally and internationally, he stands ready to champion the aspirations of his constituents and contribute to Ghana’s growth.
