Ghana needs national arts calendar –Francis Doku
TOURISM enthusiast and communication professional, Francis Doku, has emphasised the need for a vibrant national arts calendar to promote and celebrate Ghana's rich cultural heritage.
A well-structured national arts calendar would provide a comprehensive platform for showcasing the country's diverse artistic talents, festivals and events.
This, he believes, would not only boost Ghana's creative industry but also enhance its global visibility.
Speaking with Graphic Showbiz in a recent interview on his expectation of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) government initiatives for tourism, arts and entertainment industry, Mr Doku expressed his confidence in Ghana becoming a hub of African creativity, for which a vibrant arts calendar was the key to unlock that potential.
“Establishing a vibrant and diverse arts calendar with flagship national events can promote tourism and position Ghana as a hub of African creativity.”
“I also believe that events such as National Festival of Arts and Culture (NAFAC), film festivals, music awards and art exhibitions should have government backing to ensure their sustainability and impact,” he said.
He mentioned that the benefits of a vibrant arts calendar were numerous.
“They include boosting tourism, promoting cultural exchange, supporting economic growth among others. This would not only boost Ghana's creative industry but also enhance its global visibility.”
“By investing in a vibrant arts calendar, Ghana can position itself as a hub of African creativity and reap the many benefits that come with it”.
Mr Doku also outlined a comprehensive agenda for the Minister of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, emphasising the need for robust policy implementation and institutional strengthening.
“The establishment of purpose-built infrastructure, such as theatres, music recording studios, art galleries, and film villages in regional capitals, is long overdue. Such facilities will not only nurture talent but also serve as venues to showcase Ghanaian creativity to the world,” he said.
On Thursday, January 23, Parliament approved Madam Dzifa Gomashie as Minister of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts who had been a popular choice of industry players prior to her nomination by President John Dramani Mahama.
The creative industry is abuzz with anticipation, as stakeholders eagerly wait for the new government's plans to support their sector. (Read Volta Regional CNC requires GHc2million facelift to host NAFAC next year)
Even before the official transition, many industry players have been vocal about their expectations, hoping the new administration will prioritise their needs and foster growth.
Key among their demands has been empowering the Creative Arts Agency (CAA), to which the sector minister revealed at her vetting to thoroughly evaluate its operations.
She believes a detailed review is necessary to ensure the agency’s functions align with the ministry's broader objectives.
While Mr Doku shared similar views on empowering the CAA, he however noted that access to affordable and dedicated funding remained one of the biggest challenges for creative entrepreneurs.
“The government should make good on its promise of establishing a Creative Arts Fund, backed by partnerships with financial institutions, to provide grants and low-interest loans to artists and industry players,” he stated.