Alfred Kabutey Ocansey
The Multi-Talented Master of Ceremonies
Pojoba Spotlight – Class of Early 2001
Alfred Kabutey Ocansey
Times of Zambia | Saturday, April 12, 2025 FEATURES
Meet Alfred Kabutey Ocansey, a dynamic Ghanaian creative entrepreneur whose talents span event hosting, acting, and business. With a charismatic presence and an infectious passion for performance, Kabutey has built a stellar reputation as one of Ghana’s most sought-after event MCs.
For the past 14 years, Kabutey has graced stages across Africa, captivating audiences with his effortless charm and wit. With over 1,500 events under his belt—including weddings, corporate functions, entertainment spectacles, and government engagements—he has become a household name in the events industry.
His portfolio spans 17 cities, including Lusaka, Zambia, where he recently hosted the second edition of Aviation Week Africa in Livingstone, Southern Province, in early April 2025.
What began as a humble mission to bring joy to couples and families has evolved into a remarkable career that has catapulted him to the pinnacle of event hosting in Africa.
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From Biochemist to MC Extraordinaire
Interestingly, Kabutey’s journey did not begin on stage. As a young man, he was passionate about science and the cultural arts. While in primary and secondary school, he actively participated in debates, music, drumming, dancing, and theater. This blend of creativity and intellect followed him to university, where he earned a degree in biochemistry and a master’s in food science and technology.
“I have always been a very creative and extra-curricular person,” he reflects.
After university, he initially pursued a career in consulting. However, a pivotal moment came when he attended two family weddings where the MCs failed to deliver. Seeing the disappointment on the couples’ faces sparked something within him—he knew he could do better.
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Turning Passion into Profession
Drawing on his theatrical experience and public speaking skills, Kabutey launched his professional MC career in 2011 at the age of 31. After creating a Facebook profile to showcase his services, he received his first inquiry within five hours—and secured six bookings from that single event.
He began juggling his day job with a growing list of emcee engagements. But the demand quickly outpaced his schedule. Realizing he was earning more from emceeing than his regular job, he made the bold decision to pursue his passion full-time.
It was no longer a weekend gig,” he recalls. “I was getting bookings almost every other day.”
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Mastering the Craft and Inspiring Others
Eight years later, Kabutey’s brand has expanded beyond borders. He has become a prominent figure not only in Ghana but across the continent. Through his Kabutey MC Professional Master Class, he has trained over 100 aspiring event hosts, including 30 Zambian hosts in 2024. Notable collaborators in Zambia include Kamiza, Bob Nkosha, and Nabwalya Vlahakis.
He also mentors a team of 15 professionals working under his brand, further cementing his legacy in the events space.
Kabutey believes the emceeing industry has undergone a powerful transformation. “Back in the day, event hosts were just the funny uncles,” he says. “Today, MCs must be educated, articulate, and brand-conscious.”
He advocates for the formal training of aspiring MCs and emphasizes the importance of branding, positioning, and professionalism.
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A Vision for the Future Kabutey describes Zambia’s events industry as vibrant and full of potential. He urges fellow MCs to be selective about the events they participate in, always prioritizing brand integrity.
As the industry continues to evolve, Alfred Kabutey Ocansey stands as a leading figure—dedicated to elevating standards and inspiring the next generation of MCs.
His journey from scientist to showman is proof that with passion, boldness, and vision, reinvention is always possible.
