For nearly five decades, Tommy Annan-Forson has remained one of the most recognizable voices in Ghanaian broadcasting.
Often referred to as the “Godfather of Radio” in Ghana, the veteran broadcaster recently sat down with Just4MenAfrica to reflect on his 47-year journey in radio, the evolution of the industry, the rise of misinformation, and what it truly takes to survive in broadcasting.
At nearly 71 years old, Tommy Annan-Forson still speaks with the passion, confidence, and energy of someone deeply connected to the craft that shaped his life.
“Being Called the Godfather of Radio Means a Lot”
When asked what the title “Godfather of Radio” means to him personally, Tommy Annan-Forson described it as a huge honor.
According to him, the recognition carries significant meaning considering the number of radio stations and broadcasters now operating across Ghana.
“It is a huge deal for me,” he said.
“For something like that to be under my belt, it feels great.”
The title reflects not only longevity, but also the impact he has had on generations of listeners and broadcasters across the country.
Interestingly, broadcasting was not his original plan.
Tommy Annan-Forson revealed that he once imagined becoming a mechanic before radio unexpectedly entered his life.
He described his entry into broadcasting as:
- an adventure
- a journey of trial and error
- and something inspired largely by the power of voice
What began as curiosity eventually became one of Ghana’s most recognizable broadcasting careers.
How Ghanaian Radio Has Changed
Having started radio in an era when broadcasting was far more mechanical and limited, Tommy Annan-Forson has witnessed Ghanaian radio evolve dramatically.
He explained that when he began:
- there were fewer stations
- technology was limited
- and broadcasting processes were more rigid
Today, radio in Ghana has transformed into a much larger and more competitive industry with:
- numerous radio stations
- more presenters
- broader content
- and digital integration
According to him, the scale of radio’s growth is something few people imagined decades ago.
Talent Matters More Than Degrees
One of the most controversial parts of the conversation centered on education and broadcasting.
Tommy Annan-Forson argued that broadcasting is fundamentally a talent-driven profession.
While acknowledging the importance of learning and self-development, he insisted that entertainment and broadcasting cannot be reduced entirely to academic qualifications.
He pointed out that he himself did not attend university, yet built one of Ghana’s most respected broadcasting careers through:
- natural ability
- constant learning
- self-training
- and openness to criticism
Young Broadcasters and the Problem of Pronunciation
Tommy Annan-Forson also expressed concern about mistakes made by many younger broadcasters today.
One of the biggest issues, according to him, is poor pronunciation and lack of preparation.
He specifically highlighted:
- Ghanaian names
- towns
- foreign names
- and country pronunciations
as areas where presenters often fail to improve themselves adequately.
He believes broadcasters must invest more in:
- research
- self-development
- professionalism
- and understanding the information they deliver.
Radio vs Podcasts and Social Media
Despite the growth of podcasts and social media, Tommy Annan-Forson believes radio remains extremely powerful.
He argued that one major advantage radio still has is accessibility.
Unlike podcasts and video content that require significant internet data, traditional radio remains affordable and widely available.
According to him:
- people can access radio without internet costs
- radio still reaches broad audiences
- and it continues to play a critical role in information sharing worldwide
While he acknowledges the importance of digital media, he believes radio will continue surviving alongside newer platforms rather than being replaced by them.
Women in Broadcasting Have Come Far
The veteran broadcaster also reflected on how opportunities for women in radio have evolved over time.
According to him, when he started broadcasting in the late 1970s:
- women were far less represented in radio presentation
- many were mainly associated with news reading
- and broadcasting remained male-dominated
Over the years, however, more women entered broadcasting and proved themselves strongly within the industry.
He believes progress has been made, although he says there is still room for greater balance and representation.
Misinformation Is One of Media’s Biggest Threats
One of the strongest themes from the interview was misinformation.
Tommy Annan-Forson warned that both traditional and digital media can contribute to spreading false information when people prioritize fame and attention over accuracy.
According to him:
- misinformation can damage lives
- journalists have faced assaults and lawsuits because of false reporting
- and sensational stories often attract more attention online than factual information
Staying Relevant After Nearly Five Decades
So how does someone remain relevant in broadcasting for 47 years?
For Tommy Annan-Forson, the answer is simple:
constant research and continuous learning.
He explained that he regularly:
- listens to other radio stations
- studies trends
- follows music
- researches artists
- and constantly searches for ways to remain different
He emphasized the importance of unpredictability in entertainment.
According to him, audiences should never fully know what to expect when a presenter comes on air.
A Legacy Beyond Radio
As the interview concluded, Tommy Annan-Forson reflected on the legacy he hopes to leave behind.
For him, success is not simply about fame.
He wants to be remembered as:
- a broadcaster who made a difference
- someone who impacted lives positively
- and a voice that made people enjoy radio and entertainment
After 47 years behind the microphone, his influence on Ghanaian broadcasting remains undeniable.
And in an age dominated by algorithms, viral content, and fast-moving digital media, Tommy Annan-Forson’s career stands as a reminder that authenticity, talent, consistency, and passion still matter.