Accra: Ghana will showcase and promote her rich cultural heritage through a new partnership with Norway, which intends to promote tourist destinations and highlight the cultural and economic vibrancy of both countries. The Ghana-Norway Cultural Exchange Project is a new initiative aimed at strengthening cultural ties between the two countries through collaborative performances, artistic exchanges, and shared cultural practices.
According to Ghana News Agency, the two-day annual event, organized by the National Folklore Board in partnership with Infinity Events, aims to bring entertainment to participants. This project is designed as a two-part initiative with distinct phases in both Ghana and Norway. Madam Abla Dzifa Gomashie, the Minister of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, speaking at the launch of the project in Accra, said it aims to foster understanding and exchange between the cultures of Ghana and Norway through collaborations in music, dance, art, traditional practices, and other forms of cultural expressions.
The project aligns with the vision of the President John Dramani Mahama-led government to position Ghana as a global cultural hub. It is expected to provide opportunities for collaboration, knowledge sharing, and aspirations for new creative possibilities that promote social cohesion, economic growth, and sustainable development. Madam Gomashie highlighted that it presents an opportunity for cultural exchange, education, and expression of Ghanaian and Norwegian artists, performers, and academics, as well as economic potential in the creative arts economy.
Dr. Akosua Abadallah, President of the International Theatre Institute, Ghana Chapter, explained that the Ghana phase of the project will feature cultural exhibitions and performances, combining both Ghanaian and Norwegian artistic elements through visual arts, theater, and music. She noted that the Norway phase will showcase Ghanaian traditions, storytelling, and arts across various Norwegian venues, emphasizing Ghana’s rich cultural heritage.
The project’s educational component will involve universities and cultural institutions in discussions on cultural sustainability and creative entrepreneurship. Local communities and grassroots artists will be actively involved to promote inclusivity and preserve cultural heritage. Mrs. Bernice Ann Deh-Kumah, Executive Director of the National Folklore Board, highlighted the Board’s commitment to international cultural visibility and noted that the project follows a successful 2024 cultural exchange with Switzerland.
The initiative aims to promote both countries’ business and tourist destinations while encouraging business tourism and cultural investment inflows. Stakeholders are urged to appreciate and package their cultural heritage to derive economic and social benefits.