Sierra Leone: Rapper Kao Denero named special envoy for entertainment

Denero’s appointment was conveyed in a letter from the office of the president dated 12 March and signed by the secretary to the president, Julius Sandy. 

In his new role, the hip hop act is expected to leverage his star power to identify and promote the country‘s business entertainment interests and investment opportunities abroad.

“I always knew rapping was not the be it all for me,” the artist said on Wednesday while confirming his appointment. “Thanks to his excellency President Maada Bio for believing in me and entrusting me with such responsibility.” Denero also promising “more updates on the agenda moving forward as we set the pace to rejuvenate the entertainment industry.”

Born Amara Dennis Turay, Kao Denero in January celebrated two decades in the music industry. He is behind commercially successful albums including Black Leo 4 Life, Stories From Freetown, King of Africa, Freetown’s Most Wanted and A New Beginning.

The veteran rapper, popular as a social commentator and anti-corruption campaigner, is a known supporter of Bio’s leadership. In December, at a cocktail dinner hosted by Bio at the State House, Denero endorsed the president’s management of the COVID-19 pandemic in the country.

“I want to congratulate you for all the great work you are doing,” he said. “Even as corona is all over the world, his excellency has really taken the mantle of leadership by exercising great disciplinary measures to ensure that Sierra Leone is corona-free.”

At the dinner, Denero also lauded Bio for “cracking down on corruption which Sierra Leone desperately needs to see eradicated. I am very happy about that and you have my support from the beginning. You will continue to have my support till the end.”