Ghanaian rapper M.anifest recently visited South Africa as the Cultural Ambassador for the Ghana–South Africa Business Chamber, using the trade mission to also expand his music career through new creative collaborations.
The Ghanaian Hip-Hop Scene
- Influence: Cape Times writer Shingai Darangwa highlighted M.anifest’s influence, noting that Ghana’s hip-hop scene has become one of the most vibrant on the continent, with M.anifest – described by the UK’s Guardian as “the foremost rapper on the continent” – leading the charge alongside his long-time counterpart, Sarkodie.
New Music and Collaborations
During the trip, M.anifest filmed a music video for an upcoming collaboration with the acclaimed South African group Mi Casa. The collaboration was organic, initiated by Mi Casa’s management after the artists initially met years earlier at the Channel O Music Awards.
M.anifest sees collaborations as essential for broadening audiences and generating fresh sounds, having previously worked with South African heavyweights, including:
- HHP
- Stogie T
- Kwesta
- Nomisupasta (Their collaboration, “Cupid’s Crooked Bow,” was featured on his 2016 album Nowhere Cool).
Future Plans and Artistic Vision
- Upcoming Shows: M.anifest planned to return to South Africa in June and July for several shows.
- New Album: Despite recently releasing an album, he has been recording consistently, experimenting with new sound directions, and focusing on crafting projects with longer-lasting impact rather than following fleeting trends.
- Decade Milestone: Celebrating the tenth anniversary of his debut album, Manifestations, M.anifest revealed the milestone encourages him to push harder in 2027. He recalled his early career promise to quit music if his first album didn’t make a meaningful impact, using that self-imposed challenge as a continuous drive for innovation.
