The Minister for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Abla Dzifa Gomashie, has underscored the role of culture, creativity and positive energy in promoting unity and strengthening Ghana’s national identity during the Ministry and its Agencies 2025 Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols.
The annual carols service, held as part of the Ministry’s Christmas activities, brought together staff, sector agencies and cultural stakeholders for a celebration that blended faith, creativity and national heritage. The event was held under the theme “Light of the World: A Cultural and Creative Christmas Experience”.
Addressing the gathering, Gomashie commended the individuals and creative teams behind the production, describing the performances as emotionally powerful and a strong reflection of Ghana’s rich creative talent. She said the quality of the presentations demonstrated how the creative arts can inspire reflection while reinforcing shared values.
The Minister also praised the Executive Director of the National Theatre, Henry Herbert Malm, for what she described as impactful and transformative leadership, noting that the institution had experienced visible revitalisation within a relatively short period under his stewardship.
Reflecting on the performances, Hon. Gomashie observed that creativity makes it possible to reimagine familiar stories, including biblical narratives, in engaging ways that allow room for humour, reflection and deeper understanding, while remaining firmly rooted in tradition. She encouraged participants to embrace positive energy, learn from the past and move forward with a renewed sense of purpose.
Describing the carols service as a cherished annual tradition, the Minister said it provides an important moment for reflection, celebration and unity as Christians prepare for Christmas. She noted that the theme of the service strongly aligned with the Ministry’s mandate of promoting culture and creativity as pillars of national development.
Gomashie further explained that Christmas holds both historical and symbolic significance, promoting values such as hope, compassion and redemption, which she said form an important part of Ghana’s cultural heritage.
She stressed that culture and creativity remain powerful forces that illuminate Ghana’s identity, enhance its global image and contribute meaningfully to economic growth.
The service featured performances by the Lapaz Community Choir and the Holy Family Choir from Mataheko, as well as solo renditions by Josephine Boso and Kokui Serlormey. Rev. Antonio of the Centre for National Culture also performed, alongside drama and dance presentations by the National Theatre’s resident group.
The event was attended by the Chief Director of the Ministry, Directors and Heads of Agencies, Board Members, staff of the Ministry, traditional leaders, sector partners, performers and other distinguished guests.
