Eleanor Effe Amanor, affectionately known as Mama Effe, became a cherished voice in Kumasi and throughout Ghana during her 28-year career with the Multimedia Group. Her warm and comforting presence graced the airwaves every weekday afternoon, following the midday news on Nhyira FM and later on Adom TV. Her retirement on her 65th birthday, May 5, 2025, marked the end of an era and the departure of a truly influential figure in Ghanaian broadcasting. Mama Effe’s journey began humbly in 1997 with a segment on Luv FM’s Awaremo Nkomo. However, it was her 2005 takeover of Nhyira FM’s Obra program that catapulted her to national prominence and cemented her place as a beloved media personality. Obra, under Mama Effe’s guidance, evolved from a simple radio show into a powerful platform for social advocacy, offering solace and guidance to countless listeners.
Initially charged with the task of increasing listenership, Mama Effe surpassed all expectations, transforming Obra into a lifeline for many Ghanaians. The program became a vital resource for individuals grappling with domestic challenges, seeking redress for social injustices, and navigating personal crises. Mama Effe’s unique blend of compassion and courage, empathy and honesty, allowed her to address sensitive and complex issues with grace and effectiveness. Her ability to connect with listeners on a deeply personal level fostered a sense of community and trust, making Obra a safe space for sharing vulnerabilities and seeking solutions. The program’s impact extended beyond entertainment, becoming a catalyst for positive change in countless lives.
Mama Effe’s influence transcended the confines of the radio studio. She became a mentor and role model for aspiring broadcasters, particularly women, instilling in them a strong sense of purpose and professionalism. Her dedication to nurturing talent contributed to the growth and development of the media landscape in Ghana, leaving an indelible mark on the industry. Her mentorship fostered an environment of empowerment, encouraging young professionals to pursue their passions and use their voices to make a difference. This legacy of mentorship ensures that her influence will continue to resonate through future generations of Ghanaian broadcasters.
The profound impact of Mama Effe’s career was formally recognized with the Lifetime Achievement in Media Excellence Award at the 2025 Career Excellence Awards in the Ashanti Region. This accolade served as a testament to her unwavering commitment to journalistic integrity, her compassionate approach to storytelling, and her transformative contributions to Ghanaian media. The award not only celebrated her individual achievements but also acknowledged the broader impact she had on the media landscape, particularly in amplifying marginalized voices and fostering a more inclusive and representative media environment.
As Mama Effe embarks on her well-deserved retirement, she leaves behind a legacy of transformative radio journalism. Her ability to connect with listeners, advocate for social justice, and empower future generations of broadcasters has left an indelible mark on the Ghanaian media landscape. Her absence will be deeply felt by the countless individuals whose lives she touched through her work. The impact of her compassionate and courageous approach to broadcasting extends far beyond the airwaves, leaving a legacy of positive change and a lasting inspiration for future generations of journalists.
The void left by Mama Effe’s departure from broadcasting will be challenging to fill. Her unique combination of empathy, honesty, and unwavering commitment to her listeners created a powerful and impactful platform for social change and personal growth. While her voice may no longer grace the airwaves, her influence will continue to resonate through the countless lives she touched and the enduring legacy she has left behind. Her story serves as an inspiration to aspiring journalists and a reminder of the profound impact that compassionate and courageous journalism can have on individuals and communities.
