Asantewaa’s Singathon: A display of unwavering purpose and strength

When she first announced her intention to break the 105-hour singing record set by Indian singer Sunil Waghmare, many Ghanaians doubted her capabilities.

Recent failed episodes at popular international competitions, including sports, of which Ghana was a part, lent some support to this belief.

Even though Afua Asantewaa has yet to reach and break the singathon record, her output over the past few days makes her a winner already in so many ways!

The media and events personality’s singathon had suffered a few setbacks, including a temporary loss of voice and unfriendly opinions from some influential people even before and during the competition, which ordinarily would have caused her to back down some hours into the challenge.

Notwithstanding the benefits of constructive criticism for any meaningful undertaking, the criticism directed at Afua Asantewaa has been far from pushing her on the road to success.

However, it has been quite remarkable to observe many Ghanaians, including popular figures, troop in at various intervals to the Akwaaba Village in Airport Acccra to cheer her on.

The Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, and a government delegation went there on Sunday to provide morale support to the mother of three as she attempted this daunting challenge.

Afua is expected to sing over 3,000 songs to outpace the current holder, although she has elected to sing songs of Ghanaian origin as a means of promoting the country.

Reports have it that the Afua has also founded and promoted some outstanding causes aimed at bringing out the best in women and children in Africa.

Strength, creativity, out-and-out determination, and grit combined are not the fort of the average Ghanaian, and so for a person of the calibre of Afua to put on this out-of-this-world show deserves wide applause.

It is hoped that although the challenge has not ended, Afua’s performance so far will challenge Ghanaians at all levels, making it very possible to achieve what one sets out to do.

As a popular saying goes, if your dreams do not scare you, they are not worth achieving.

Massive thumps up to her team of voice trainers, medics, dieticians, and others.

Profound commendation goes to her husband and family for embracing the challenge with her and lending her all the support she needs.

It is worth mentioning the support of corporate Ghana, including media organisations, for partnering with this cause with financial and other resources.

Afua’s challenge is also a reminder of the fact that there is so much more the government can do to practically support the arts, tourism, and creative industries, apart from the usual vague promises and incongruous policies.

As we are speaking, stakeholders in the sporting fraternity are at their wit ends over the National Sports Authority decisions to offer the Accra Sports Stadium for use by event organisers due to the absence of adequate fit-for-purpose venues.

To Asantewaa, the whole country and continent are solidly behind you, and we sincerely await your record-breaking hour, but wherever you reach after here, we are proud of you.