Former President John Dramani Mahama, the flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has announced an ambitious plan to revitalize Ghana’s creative industry.
Speaking at the media encounter on Sunday, Mr. Mahama revealed a comprehensive policy framework dubbed “The Black Experience,” aimed at boosting the tourism and creative arts sector.
“I have good news for the creative industry,” Mahama stated. “Our overarching policy for the industry shall be the Black Experience. This will be geared towards boosting the tourism and creative arts sector.”
The Black Experience policy encompasses several major initiatives, including:
1. Pan African Month: A month dedicated to celebrating the rich cultural heritage of Africa, fostering unity and collaboration among African nations.
2. Ghana Film Festival and Awards Month: An event to showcase and honor the achievements of Ghanaian filmmakers and the broader film industry.
3. Ghanaian Heritage and History Month:A period to reflect on and celebrate Ghana’s storied past and cultural legacy.
4. Fashion and Food Month: An initiative to highlight and promote Ghanaian fashion and cuisine, showcasing the country’s creative talents.
5. Diasporan Month: A time to recognize and engage with the Ghanaian diaspora, encouraging their participation in national development and cultural exchange.
In addition to these events, Mahama pledged to rehabilitate all regional Centres of National Culture, making them accessible and useful for the creative industry. He also emphasized the importance of supporting aging artists, ensuring they receive the recognition and assistance they deserve.
“Our commitment is to create a vibrant, inclusive, and sustainable creative industry that honors our heritage and propels our cultural narrative on the global stage,” Mr. Mahama concluded.