Calls for a National Arts Calendar in Ghana have gained momentum in recent years, especially from artists, industry stakeholders, and cultural enthusiasts who believe that a centralized calendar could help streamline events, promote Ghanaian culture, and improve coordination within the arts community.

Tourism enthusiast and communication expert, Francis Doku has highlighted the importance of establishing a vibrant national arts calendar to promote and celebrate Ghana’s rich cultural heritage.

According to Doku, a well-structured arts calendar would offer a comprehensive platform to showcase the country’s diverse artistic talents, festivals, and events, helping to boost the creative industry and increase Ghana’s global visibility.

Doku discussed his expectations for the National Democratic Congress (NDC) government’s approach to the tourism, arts, and entertainment sectors.

He expressed confidence that Ghana could become a central hub for African creativity, and he believes that a robust national arts calendar is crucial to unlocking this potential.

“Establishing a vibrant and diverse arts calendar with flagship national events can promote tourism and position Ghana as a hub of African creativity.”
Francis Doku

He emphasized that major events such as the National Festival of Arts and Culture (NAFAC), film festivals, music awards, and art exhibitions should receive government support to ensure their longevity and significant impact.

Doku explained that the benefits of a national arts calendar would be far-reaching.

“These include boosting tourism, promoting cultural exchange, supporting economic growth, and more. This would not only enhance Ghana’s creative industry but also raise its global profile.”
Francis Doku

He further stressed that by investing in a vibrant arts calendar, Ghana would be well-positioned as a creative hub in Africa, with the potential to reap the economic and cultural rewards that such a development could bring.

In addition to a national arts calendar, Doku called for a comprehensive approach to strengthening the country’s cultural infrastructure.

Francis Doku on Purpose-Built Facilities

The Tourism enthusiast highlighted the long-overdue need for purpose-built facilities like theatres, music recording studios, art galleries, and film villages in regional capitals.

These venues, he argued, would not only nurture homegrown talent but also showcase Ghana’s creativity on the global stage. “Such facilities will play a critical role in nurturing talent and providing platforms for Ghanaian creativity to be seen worldwide,” he stated.

Francis Doku’s remarks come at a time when the creative industry in Ghana is eagerly awaiting plans from the newly appointed Minister of Tourism, Culture, and Creative Arts, Dzifa Gomashie.

Gomashie, who was confirmed by Parliament on January 23, has long been a popular choice among industry stakeholders.

There is a growing sense of anticipation as the sector looks forward to how the new government will prioritize the creative industries in its agenda.

Before taking office, many in the sector have voiced their expectations for the new administration, hoping it will foster an environment that supports growth and addresses the challenges facing the creative community.

One of the key demands has been the empowerment of the Creative Arts Agency (CAA).

At her vetting, Gomashie revealed that she plans to thoroughly assess the agency’s operations, ensuring they align with the broader objectives of the Ministry of Tourism, Culture, and Creative Arts.

Doku echoed similar views on the importance of strengthening the CAA but also stressed that access to affordable and dedicated funding remains one of the biggest challenges for creative entrepreneurs in the country.

He called on the government to fulfill its promise of establishing a Creative Arts Fund, backed by partnerships with financial institutions to provide grants and low-interest loans for artists and industry players.

“The government should ensure that the Creative Arts Fund is implemented effectively, allowing artists and industry professionals to access the financial support they need to thrive.”
Francis Doku

As the creative industry eagerly awaits the new government’s plans, Doku’s insights serve as a timely reminder of the significant steps needed to ensure that Ghana’s arts sector grows sustainably, fostering both local and international recognition of its creative talents.

By prioritizing a national arts calendar, strengthening institutions like the CAA, and providing financial support, Ghana can truly solidify its position as a vibrant and innovative cultural hub on the African continent.

The call for a National Arts Calendar in Ghana is not merely a bureaucratic initiative; it is a visionary step towards fostering a vibrant cultural landscape that honors the past while embracing the future.