Sabah Zita Benson, Ghana's High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, has personally intervened to support Ghanaian musician Barosky after a viral video showed him living on the streets of Manchester. The diplomat has offered to facilitate his return to Ghana at no cost if he chooses to come home.
The intervention came after widespread public concern erupted on social media when footage of the musician sleeping rough circulated widely, sparking a wave of empathy and calls for action from Ghanaians at home and abroad.
How did the High Commission respond to Barosky's situation?
In a video shared by media personality Nana Romeo, Sabah Zita Benson explained that the High Commission acted swiftly after the footage came to their attention. She instructed the consular office to reach out to the musician and explore practical ways to resolve his circumstances.
When the video came out, a lot of people forwarded it to us. So I immediately instructed our consular office to reach out and see how we can resolve it. Later, I got information that it's been resolved,
Despite being told that Barosky's immediate situation had been addressed, the High Commissioner insisted on meeting him personally. She wanted to understand his needs firsthand and determine how both the Ghanaian community in the UK and the High Commission could offer meaningful support.
What options does Barosky have going forward?
The High Commission is prepared to assist Barosky with either path he chooses. If he decides to return to Ghana, they will help facilitate the process. If he prefers to stay in the UK, the focus shifts to helping him find his footing again.
If he wants to go home, we would be willing to assist him do that. If he wants to stay, then I want to know how the community would be able to support him to find his feet back, because he can't do it alone,
Why does the High Commissioner urge compassion over judgment?
Sabah Zita Benson used Barosky's situation to deliver a powerful message about empathy. She cautioned against judging people who find themselves homeless or facing severe difficulties, stressing that hardship can strike anyone regardless of their social or professional background.
She pointed to homelessness in parts of the United States as a sobering example, noting that some people living on the streets had previously been bankers, doctors, or financially secure individuals before their circumstances changed dramatically.
It can happen to anybody. So when it does, we shouldn't be judgemental. We should rather lend a helping hand. That is what a good community does,
A single wrong decision or an unexpected turn of events can leave anyone struggling to survive, she added, which is why compassion must replace condemnation.
What role can the Ghanaian community in the UK play?
The High Commissioner called on Ghanaians in the UK to rally around Barosky and help him regain stability. She stressed that collective support would be essential for him to rebuild his life and career.
Benson also praised Barosky's musical talent, describing him as a gifted artist whose abilities should not go to waste because of his current circumstances. She noted that Ghana's international representation goes beyond diplomacy, encompassing music, food, culture, traditions, and the conduct of Ghanaians abroad.
If we have one such a great talent, who has found himself in hard times, it's our duty to ensure that we help him back on his feet to be able to find his level and whatever talent that he has in him doesn't go waste,
In a lighter moment, Madam Benson encouraged the musician to return to making music and even promised she could potentially feature on one of his songs, showing the kind of creative collaboration that Ghanaian diplomacy can inspire.
Frequently asked questions about Barosky's situation
Who is Barosky?
Barosky is a Ghanaian musician who gained attention after a viral video showed him living on the streets of Manchester, UK. He has been described by Ghana's High Commissioner as a gifted musician with significant talent.
What assistance is the High Commission offering?
The High Commission has offered to facilitate Barosky's return to Ghana at no cost if he chooses to go home. If he stays in the UK, they are working with the Ghanaian community to help him find stability and rebuild his life.
Why did the High Commissioner meet Barosky personally?
Sabah Zita Benson considered it important to meet Barosky face to face to understand his needs directly and determine how the Ghanaian community and the High Commission could best support him, rather than relying solely on secondhand information.