Ghanaian musician Okyeame Kwame and actor Prince David Osei have been selected to contribute to the manifesto of the New Patriotic Party (NPP). They are part of the party’s sub-committee on tourism, arts, and culture, led by Juliet Yaa Asantewaa Asante and Akwasi Agyemang.
Other committee members include Catherine Abelema Afeku, Dr. Ama Boafo-Arthur, Prof. Issahatu Adam, Claudia Lumor, Nana Yaw Manteaw, Yaa Pokua Baiden, Kwaku Osei Korankye Asiedu (KOKA), Festus Frimpong Gyebi, Eric Owusu Akreso, Dr. Ackah Kwame Nyameke, and Radia Adama Saani.
The committee is expected to work on initiatives that will benefit the cultural and creative industries and help them thrive. Dr. Mahamadu Bawumia, the flagbearer of the NPP, has also pledged to create digital platforms for Ghanaian artists to support the growth of tourism and the creative arts sector.
During a lecture at the University of Professional Studies in Accra, Dr. Bawumia emphasized the importance of empowering artists and providing tax incentives for film producers and musicians. He also mentioned plans to implement an e-visa policy for international visitors to Ghana.
Despite these promises, the NPP has faced criticism from stakeholders in the creative industry for not fulfilling some of its pledges, such as setting up the Creative Arts Fund and constructing theatres in Kumasi, Takoradi, and Tamale. The party also promised to establish recording studios in major cities, which has not been realized yet.
As the committee continues its work, there are high expectations for the NPP to deliver on its commitments and support the growth of the cultural and creative industries in Ghana.
