Accra: Vice President Prof Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang has unveiled Ghana's Revised National Cultural Policy, which is set to serve as a roadmap for safeguarding and enhancing the nation's cultural heritage. The policy aims to bolster the cultural and creative industries, thereby contributing significantly to economic growth and social transformation.
According to Ghana Web, the Vice President launched the policy at the National Theatre in Accra, emphasizing that it positions culture as a strategic tool for national development. The revised policy aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and the African Union's Agenda 2030. Prof Opoku-Agyemang highlighted that the policy seeks to utilize Ghana's rich cultural assets to promote economic empowerment, job creation, heritage preservation, and national identity, while tapping into opportunities within the creative economy.
Prof Opoku-Agyemang underscored the importance of culture as not only a reflection of identity but also a potent driver of development. She mentioned recent achievements such as the recognition of Kente as a Geographical Indication and the inclusion of Highlife Music on the international heritage register, illustrating the policy's impact.
The Minister of Tourism, Culture, and Creative Arts, Abla Dzifa Gomashie, noted that the revised policy is the culmination of years of extensive consultations with various stakeholders including academics, artists, and community leaders. According to the Minister, the policy represents a paradigm shift, viewing culture as a sector that can drive socio-economic development.
Gomashie further elaborated that the policy will facilitate access to finance for creative entrepreneurs, support the creation of creative hubs, promote investment in Ghanaian cultural products, and integrate culture into national development and trade agendas. She noted that cultural activities provide substantial economic opportunities across sectors such as fashion, catering, transportation, and media.
Goodwill messages from the European Union and UNESCO representatives reaffirmed their support for Ghana's cultural preservation and development efforts. Professor Esi Sutherland-Addy, Chairperson of the Technical Committee for the Review of the Policy, presented the key highlights and implementation roadmap, stressing the critical role of culture in national development.
The launch of the Revised National Cultural Policy marks Ghana's renewed commitment to utilizing culture as a strategic pillar for sustainable development, economic empowerment, and global cultural engagement.