Mahama Nominates Abla Dzifa Gomashie as Minister for Tourism, Culture, and Creative Arts

Date: January 12, 2025

Former President John Dramani Mahama, in a move to bolster Ghana’s tourism and cultural industries, has nominated Abla Dzifa Gomashie as the new Minister for Tourism, Culture, and Creative Arts. This announcement has sparked widespread discussion about her potential to enhance these vital sectors of Ghana’s economy.

Who is Abla Dzifa Gomashie?

Abla Dzifa Gomashie is a distinguished figure in Ghana’s creative and cultural landscape. Known for her versatility, she has excelled as an actress, producer, and cultural advocate. Gomashie previously served as the Deputy Minister for Tourism, Culture, and Creative Arts under Mahama’s administration between 2013 and 2017. Her tenure was marked by a strong emphasis on promoting local culture and supporting creative professionals.

She holds a Master’s degree in Fine Arts from the University of Ghana, Legon, and has been a relentless advocate for the preservation of Ghana’s rich cultural heritage. Her vast experience in the arts and her familiarity with the operational framework of the Ministry make her a fitting choice for this role.

Why This Nomination Matters

The nomination of Gomashie signals Mahama’s recognition of the strategic importance of the tourism and creative arts sectors in national development. According to the Ghana Tourism Authority, tourism contributes approximately 5.5% to the country’s GDP, making it a critical area for economic growth. Cultural festivals, historical landmarks, and creative arts collectively attract millions of visitors annually. Enhancing these sectors can lead to job creation and increased foreign exchange earnings.

Under Gomashie’s leadership, it is expected that greater focus will be placed on:

1. Promoting Domestic Tourism: Encouraging Ghanaians to explore the country’s hidden gems, such as the Mole National Park, Kakum Canopy Walkway, and Cape Coast Castle.
2. Empowering Creative Artists: Providing financial and technical support to artists to enable them to compete on the global stage.
3. Enhancing Cultural Heritage Sites: Collaborating with local and international stakeholders to maintain and promote Ghana’s historical landmarks.
4. Improving Infrastructure: Advocating for better infrastructure around tourist hotspots to enhance visitor experiences.

What Challenges Lie Ahead?

While Gomashie’s appointment is widely celebrated, the road ahead is not without its challenges. These include:

• Funding: Ensuring consistent and adequate funding for tourism and cultural projects remains a persistent issue.
• COVID-19 Recovery: Revitalizing the tourism sector post-pandemic to regain pre-2020 visitor numbers.
• International Competition: Positioning Ghana as a top destination amidst stiff competition from other African countries like Kenya and South Africa.

Public and Stakeholder Reactions

The nomination has been met with enthusiasm by many in the creative arts and tourism sectors. Kojo Oppong Nkrumah, a prominent voice in Ghanaian politics, stated: “Gomashie’s expertise and commitment to the arts are well-known. Her leadership will undoubtedly propel the sector forward.” Similarly, organizations like the Creative Arts Industry Association have expressed optimism, noting her history of advocating for the welfare of creative professionals.

On social media, Ghanaians have shared their support using hashtags like #DzifaForTourism and #CreativeArtsGhana. Many have emphasized the need for her to prioritize the digitization of cultural archives and the establishment of policies that encourage private investment in tourism.

Looking Ahead

Gomashie’s confirmation as Minister will likely usher in a new era for Ghana’s tourism and cultural sectors. By leveraging technology, fostering public-private partnerships, and focusing on sustainability, she has the opportunity to set Ghana apart as a global leader in cultural tourism.

For updates on her initiatives and policies, visit the Ministry of Tourism’s official website here. You can also follow ongoing developments on her personal Twitter page @DzifaGomashie.

Conclusion

Abla Dzifa Gomashie’s nomination is a timely decision to revitalize Ghana’s tourism, culture, and creative arts industries. With her extensive experience and clear vision, she is well-positioned to address the challenges ahead and unlock the sector’s full potential. As the nation eagerly awaits her confirmation, the spotlight remains on how her leadership will shape the future of these vital sectors.

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