Former Ghanaian President John Mahama, now a presidential candidate for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), recently shared his vision for the creative economy if elected in 2024.
During a policy debate at the AH Hotel in Accra, he emphasized the potential of the creative sector to create numerous job opportunities for Ghanaians.
Mahama highlighted the disparity between Ghana and other countries, where creatives often thrive economically.
He expressed his commitment to empowering young talents and fostering growth in the creative arts industry through various policy initiatives. Here are some of the key policies he outlined:
Budgetary Allocation for the Creative Arts: Ensure dedicated funding for the creative sector.
Golden Age of Culture, Arts, and Tourism: Establish comprehensive policies promoting job creation and entrepreneurship, including initiatives like the BlackStar Experience to showcase Africanism.
Renovation of Arts and Culture Centers: Upgrade cultural facilities across different regions.
Copyright and IP Law Streamlining: Improve processes related to intellectual property rights.
Film Festivals and Arts Exhibitions: Organize events to showcase Ghanaian films, arts, and music.
Support for Drama and Theatre Arts: Provide assistance for playwrights and theater exhibitions.
International Representation: Facilitate participation in international trade fairs to showcase Ghanaian culture.
Film Village Establishment: Work towards creating a dedicated hub for filmmakers.
National Theatre Rehabilitation: Renovate the National Theatre and build a second one in Kumasi.
Specialized Arts TV Channel: Launch a digital channel for creative arts programs.
Venue Support: Provide discounted rates for performances at government-owned venues.
Arts Education: Promote teaching of music and arts in school curriculums with trained teachers.
Tax Breaks for Artists: Offer tax incentives for artists with Tax Identification Numbers (TINs).
Aging Artist Fund: Create a fund to support elderly artists.
Revival of Cultural Festivals: Bring back the National Festival of Arts and Culture (NAFAC).
Tourism Development: Collaborate with the private sector to enhance tourist sites and projects like the Marine Drive Project.
Amusement Parks: Develop recreational facilities like amusement parks.
Tourism Fund Review: Ensure equitable distribution of tourism funds.
Arts City Development: Construct a new city in the Volta Region to promote arts and tourism.
Stakeholder Dialogues: Hold regular discussions with industry stakeholders.
These policies underscore Mahama’s commitment to harnessing the potential of the creative arts sector for economic and cultural development if the NDC wins the 2024 elections.