Swiss-Ghanaian singer and global pop star Manon Bannerman has finally spoken publicly for the first time since her hiatus from international girl group KATSEYE, and many Ghanaians are paying close attention as the young star continues to represent her Ghanaian roots on the world stage.
Manon, whose father is Ghanaian, made headlines this week after fans noticed she had removed “KATSEYE” from her Instagram bio, sparking speculation that she had left the group. However, in a message posted to fans on WeVerse, the 23-year-old reassured supporters that she is still in discussions with record labels HYBE and Geffen Records about her future.
“Thank you so much for all the love and support you’ve been sending my way,” she wrote. “I’m really grateful for the patience and kindness everyone has shown during this time. HxG and I are having positive conversations and I feel supported. I’m happy and I’m healthy. I’ll share more soon. Thank you for always being there for me.”
Manon went on a temporary hiatus in February, with the label stating she would be focusing on her health and wellbeing. However, the singer later clarified to fans that she was healthy and taking care of herself, adding that sometimes situations unfold in ways beyond one’s control.
As the only Black member of KATSEYE and one of the few artists with Ghanaian heritage in a major global pop group, Manon’s journey has drawn strong support from fans across Ghana and the African diaspora. Many see her as a symbol of African representation in the global pop industry, especially in the highly competitive K-pop-inspired training system that formed the group.
KATSEYE was formed through the reality show The Debut: Dream Academy, a collaboration between South Korea’s HYBE and America’s Geffen Records to create a global girl group. The group includes members from the Philippines, South Korea, India, and the Americas, making Manon’s Ghanaian heritage an important part of the group’s diversity story.
Despite coming into the competition as a model with less performance experience than some of the other contestants, Manon earned her place in the final group and went on to become part of the group’s global success, including hit songs that charted internationally and earned Grammy nominations.
During her hiatus, several international stars — including SZA, Chloe Bailey, Normani, Leigh-Anne Pinnock, and Melody Thornton — publicly showed support for Manon, many of whom have also spoken about the experience of being the only Black member in global girl groups.
While the remaining members of KATSEYE are preparing to release new music, fans around the world — especially in Ghana — continue to watch closely and support Manon Bannerman as she navigates this important moment in her career.
For many young Africans hoping to break into the global music industry, Manon’s story remains an inspiring reminder that Ghanaian talent can shine on the world stage.
