On the evening of October 16, 2024, the Vice President of Ghana and flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, convened a significant meeting with key members of Ghana’s creative arts industry and tourism at the Alisa Hotel in Ridge, Accra.
The event brought together a diverse group of professionals, including musicians, fashion designers, event organizers, models, hairdressers, the media, and other practitioners in the creative arts sector. The purpose of the meeting was to engage with stakeholders and establish the creative arts industry as a key driver of economic growth.
During his address, Dr. Bawumia emphasized the importance of the creative arts sector in Ghana’s economic development, noting its potential to create jobs, boost tourism, and showcase Ghanaian culture globally. He also acknowledged the industry’s challenges, such as infrastructure, funding, access to international markets, and intellectual property rights.
To address these issues, the Vice President outlined several key policies that his government plans to implement if elected in 2024:
1. Creative Arts Development Fund: A dedicated fund will be established to support practitioners in the creative industry, providing financial assistance to emerging talents and grants for projects promoting Ghanaian culture.
2. Creative Arts Technology Hub: A technology hub will be created to foster innovation in the creative sector, offering training in digital tools and marketing strategies.
3. Infrastructure Development: More performance venues, recording studios, and arts centers will be established to support creativity in both urban and rural areas.
4. Tax Incentives for the Creative Arts: Tax incentives will be introduced for registered businesses in the creative sector to support local talent and production.
5. Creative Arts Curriculum in Schools: A structured creative arts curriculum will be introduced in schools to nurture young talent.
6. Intellectual Property Rights Protection: Enhancements will be made to protect the intellectual property of Ghanaian artists and creators.
7. International Market Access: Initiatives will be developed to give artists access to international markets and showcase Ghanaian talent globally.
During the meeting, industry representatives shared their experiences and expectations. Musicians highlighted the need for better royalty systems, while fashion designers emphasized the importance of promoting local fabrics internationally.
Event organizers, models, hairdressers, and beauticians also expressed their views on the challenges they face and their optimism about the Vice President’s vision for the industry.
