The son of a kenkey seller, who grew up in a village called Awutu Breku in the Central Region, moved to Accra and, after going through many ups and downs in life, has decided to use the storytelling and poetry skills he learned in the village to make meaning of his life. He recently wrote and launched a book titled It Can’t Be Him.
As a child, Daniel Okine used storytelling as a means of survival. He swept cinemas in exchange for the chance to watch movies. Afterward, he would recount the stories to his friends in return for food.
As the grandson of a fetish priest, he learned to play traditional local drums at an early age. Throughout his time in basic school, Sunday school, and beyond, he was always eager to entertain his classmates whenever the opportunity arose.
Realizing he was a born entertainer, he continued to harness his storytelling and other talents to give meaning to his life. He had the opportunity to travel to Germany, where he lived for years, using his skills to write stage plays and poetry for various organizations and schools in the diaspora. He also wrote and produced songs, created video documentaries, and more.
During his recent book launch in Ho, the author shed tears as his life story resonated with some of the dignitaries in attendance. The title of the book, It Can’t Be Him, reflects their shared life experiences, portraying how their current situations are far removed from their humble beginnings.
It Can’t Be Him is a drama that tells the story of two friends: one from a poor home and the other from a wealthy background. Despite the support of his friend’s wealthy parents, the poor child eventually becomes more successful. Meanwhile, the rich kid turns to crime and armed robbery for survival. When the poor friend hears of his arrest, he initially defends him, insisting, “It can’t be him,” only to learn that the police reports are true.
Figuratively, Mr. Okine’s life mirrors this theme. Coming from a very poor background and rising to his current success, those who knew him in his earlier days might also find themselves saying, “It can’t be him.”
His company, based in Ho, is set to begin stage drama productions and other forms of entertainment in the Volta Region.
