The Foundation of Concerned Arts Professionals (FOCAP) recently met with officials from the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture to discuss their concerns and intended picketing.
The picketing was scheduled for August 29, 2024, at the ministry’s premises, but the meeting aimed to address FOCAP’s demands.
FOCAP had been pushing for the establishment of the Creative Arts Agency Board and the appointment of an Executive Secretary for the agency.
During the meeting, Mr. John Yao Agbeko, the Chief Director of the Ministry, reassured FOCAP that the ministry had received clearance from all necessary agencies and ministries.
He also mentioned that recruitment for a skeleton staff to run the Creative Arts Agency office would be completed by the end of August 2024.
Additionally, the ministry officials shared an approved Organogram with FOCAP and assured them that interviews for various positions would commence soon.
They explained that they needed to have the skeleton staff in place before constituting the Board as required by the Creative Arts Agency Act 1048.
FOCAP expressed in a statement that they were promised another meeting with the ministry’s leadership to address the Board and Executive Secretary issues before the planned picketing.
They assured their allies, creatives, media, associations, and members that they were committed to ensuring systems and structures were in place and working effectively. FOCAP pledged to provide updates at every stage of their negotiations.
It is evident from their statements that FOCAP is dedicated to advocating for the interests of artists and creatives, ensuring that the industry operates smoothly and efficiently.
