The government has reaffirmed its commitment to positioning the creative arts sector as a cornerstone of Ghana’s national development.
Speaking on behalf of Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah at the 50th Anniversary Soirée of the Musicians Union of Ghana (MUSIGA), Deputy Chief of Staff (Administration) Nana Oye Bampoe Addo outlined sweeping reforms and investments aimed at transforming the country’s creative economy.
Nana Oye emphasised that President John Dramani Mahama’s administration is determined to unlock the sector’s full potential.
“The 2026 National Budget allocates GHS 20 million in seed capital for a new Creative Arts Fund, designed to provide grants, soft loans, technical training, and business development support for musicians, fashion designers, digital creators, film producers, and other creatives. Talent alone is not enough; it must be supported by capital, strategy, and innovation,” she stated.
The government is also strengthening intellectual property systems and improving royalty collection to ensure artists receive fair compensation for their work.
Addressing a gathering of musicians, industry leaders, cultural icons, and policymakers, Nana Oye lauded the creative community for its invaluable contribution to national life.
“It is said you cannot be sad in Ghana. How could you be? In a country where laughter is a national language… our creative content brings families together, and our dances travel farther than our passports,” she noted.
Highlighting the sector’s economic significance, she cited Ghana Statistical Service data showing arts and culture contribute approximately 2.5% of GDP, supporting millions of jobs nationwide. Major concerts, such as ShattaFest 2025, can inject tens of millions of cedis into the economy in a single day through tourism, hospitality, transport, and media activities.
“Digital revenues are also expanding rapidly. Ghana’s recorded music and streaming market is projected to reach US$4.36 million in 2025, reflecting the growing global reach of our music,” she added.
Nana Oye also highlighted government collaborations with global platforms, including a recent partnership with TikTok to host “Ghana Creator Education Day,” aimed at enhancing digital skills, securing fair compensation, and boosting international visibility for Ghanaian creators.
These initiatives align with the NDC’s Resetting Ghana manifesto, which includes plans to commercialise cultural goods, revive theaters and performance spaces, and foster international cultural partnerships.
Looking ahead, Nana Oye described Ghana’s creative future as deeply intertwined with technology. AI-driven content creation, virtual concerts, VR storytelling, and global streaming platforms present “unprecedented opportunities” for Ghana’s creative class.
Credit: citinewsroom.com
