By Ibrahim S. Bangura
Freetown, January 2026 — Omar Elkan Agyei, popularly known as Elkan, a 22-year-old UK-born artist of Sierra Leonean heritage, has paid a courtesy visit to the Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, Nabeela Farida Tunis, to discuss strategies for promoting Sierra Leone’s cultural heritage on the global stage.
During the meeting, Elkan expressed gratitude to the Minister for granting him audience, describing the engagement as a demonstration of the Ministry’s commitment to the creative industry. He noted that Sierra Leone is rich in talent across music, storytelling, visual arts, and poetry, but stressed that visibility and support remain major challenges.
Elkan called for the establishment of dedicated creative spaces where young people can showcase their skills. He also revealed that he is currently capturing video footage of key cultural and tourist sites across the country, which will feature in an upcoming music video.
His mother and Madam Harrison echoed his concerns, highlighting the limitations facing the creative sector, particularly in infrastructure and opportunities for young creatives.
Minister Tunis praised Elkan as a “musical genius poised to unlock new frontiers on the global creative scene.” She noted that the visit coincides with the launch of the Year of Culture and Creativity, a national campaign aimed at recognizing the role of people, culture, and creative skills in shaping Sierra Leone’s future.
The meeting concluded with an agreement to host a beach pop-up event at River No. 2 Beach, designed to promote Elkan’s work and reaffirm the Ministry’s commitment to amplifying culture and creativity.
Elkan has gained international recognition as a global music artist and producer. A multi-instrumentalist and composer, he produced the hit track Nokia from Drake and Party Next Door’s album Some Sexy Songs 4 U. He has collaborated with leading international artists including Drake, Rihanna, Metro Boomin, Young Thug, Lecrae, and Russ. His contribution to Lecrae’s Church Clothes 4, which won a Grammy Award, further cemented his reputation as a rising force in contemporary music.