In an inspiring move that blends celebrity influence with national development, Ghanaian dancehall star Shatta Wale and the Chief Executive Officer of the Youth Employment Agency (YEA), Malik Basintale, are exploring a groundbreaking partnership aimed at tackling youth unemployment through Shaxi, Shatta Wale’s innovative ride-hailing initiative.
The news broke earlier this week after Basintale reached out to Shatta Wale via X (formerly Twitter), stating:
> “Dear @shattawalegh, As CEO of YEA, my mind dey!!! Let’s partner to make Shaxi, Ghanaian-owned big. Hear from you soon!”
This public gesture was not just symbolic—it signaled the beginning of what could be a transformative alliance. Shaxi, launched by Shatta Wale in 2021, was designed not just to compete in the transport sector but to empower young Ghanaians by creating job opportunities in the ride-hailing industry.
Shatta Wale responded warmly, reaffirming the mission of Shaxi:
> “Shaxi is not just a ride-hailing service — it’s a movement designed to empower the youth, create jobs, and promote digital innovation within our transport sector.”
According to insiders, early discussions are centered on integrating YEA’s resources and networks into Shaxi’s framework to expand its reach nationwide, offering subsidized access to vehicles, training programs for drivers, and tech-based job solutions for unemployed youth.
What This Means for Ghana
The potential partnership aligns with YEA’s broader mandate of facilitating sustainable youth employment through public-private partnerships. By joining forces with Shatta Wale—one of Ghana’s most influential cultural figures—Basintale is not only embracing innovation but also leveraging popular platforms to reach the masses.
Analysts say this collaboration could become a blueprint for celebrity-backed social entrepreneurship, showing how entertainment icons can be drivers of change beyond the stage.
What’s Next?
While official details of the partnership rollout are still under wraps, both camps have signaled a strong commitment to seeing the initiative through. A press conference is expected in the coming weeks, where a formal memorandum of understanding may be signed.
For now, the nation watches with anticipation as two of Ghana’s most dynamic influencers—one from politics, the other from pop culture—join forces to turn creativity into careers and influence into impact.
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