The Minister of Tourism, Culture, and Creative Arts, Hon. Abla Dzifa Gomashie, has met with the Member of Parliament for Kwesimintsim in the Western Region Hon. Phillip Fiifi Buckman and young creatives from his constituency to explore ways of supporting youth entry into Ghana’s growing creative arts space.
The engagement focused on empowering young people to find their path in the sector, with the MP expressing his commitment to the development of youth in his region. He appealed to the Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts Minister to share guidance and direction that could help the young creatives navigate the industry more effectively.
In response, Hon. Abla Gomashie emphasized that while the Ministry itself does not develop talent directly, several agencies under its umbrella are mandated to support talent development and cultural promotion. These include the Creative Arts Agency, the Folklore Board, the Ghana Tourism Development Company (GTDC), and key heritage institutions such as the Du Bois Centre, George Padmore Library, and others. Each plays a role in training, preserving culture, and nurturing creative expressions, particularly in music, dance, drama, and Pan-Africanism.
She advised Municipal, Metropolitan, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) to identify and promote the unique cultural elements in their communities to drive tourism and economic growth.
The group praised the Ministry’s recent successful organization of NkrumahFest in Nkroful, calling it a program of international standard. They noted the influx of visitors significantly boosted local business and raised the profile of the area.
Looking ahead, several upcoming initiatives were discussed, including the proposed K-Carnival , a masquerade festival tentatively scheduled for January 3, 2026, which aims to incorporate the Dambai Festival of the Dagomba community in the western region. Plans are also underway for the Made in Tardi event on December 22, where the Minister encouraged organizers to include a range of side attractions to enhance the experience and draw wider participation.
Hon. Gomashie urged the youth to prepare themselves to take advantage of opportunities in the sector.
“Wash your hands well so you can be supported,” she said, a metaphor urging self-preparation, discipline, and readiness for growth.
She also shared personal reflections on individuals who inspired her journey, including Ben Dotsei Malor, an Ewe journalist with the BBC, and Paschal Yao Younge, Professor of Music Education from Dzodze who taught in Ewe at the University of Ghana’s School of Performing Arts. She spoke of her admiration for Professor Efua Sutherland, whose plays shaped her early understanding of Ghanaian storytelling. These mentors, she said, gave her the courage to pursue her path and serve in the creative space.
The Minister encouraged the youth not to shy away from adapting the work of others in their own unique way, emphasizing that originality often begins with inspiration.
Finally, she urged the young people to take part in platforms such as the Chale Wote Festival, which she described as a vibrant and valuable space for creatives to showcase their talents and engage with wider audiences.
Source: Delassie Mabel Awuku-PR Unit- MoTCCA
