Accra: The Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts has advanced initiatives to promote Ghanaian cuisine, strengthen creative businesses, and improve tourism data. The measures include significant funding for the Creative Arts Fund and Film Development Fund, the promotion of local cuisine, and efforts to expand Ghanaian cultural products in international markets.
According to Ghana News Agency, Madam Abla Dzifa Gomashie, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, stated that these initiatives are part of the government's efforts to create jobs, promote economic growth, and preserve Ghana's national identity. She addressed these points at the Government Accountability Series in Accra on Monday.
Madam Gomashie highlighted the AfroGastro festival, a flagship culinary arts event aimed at promoting Ghanaian culinary arts and traditions. The Ministry has also partnered with the Chefs Association of Ghana to incorporate local cuisines into hotel menus and other tourist facilities across the country.
In terms of financial support, GHS5 million has been allocated to revive the Creative Arts Fund, providing sustainable financial backing for creative businesses of varying sizes. The Legislative Instrument to operationalize the fund is set to be presented to Parliament soon.
Additionally, another GHS5 million has been allocated for the Film Development Fund, with its Legislative Instrument also expected to be passed by Parliament. Plans to renovate the National Theatre in Accra and establish a second National Theatre in Kumasi are well underway, with administrative requirements being completed.
For tourism data initiatives, the Ministry has introduced the Ghana Tourism Marketplace and Ghana Tourism Investment Platform, and work is progressing on establishing a Tourism Satellite Account. Domestic tourism growth exceeded seven percent in 2025.
Madam Gomashie also announced the formation of a new board, Accra Marine Development Limited, and a steering committee to revive the Marine Drive project. Engagements with potential investors and partners are currently ongoing.
Digital initiatives, such as the Ghana-EU Sankofa project and Korea-Ghana Heritage Project, are being implemented to offer virtual experiences of museums and cultural content. Discussions have started with the Film Producers Association of Ghana and other stakeholders to develop a roadmap for supporting local content and job creation.
Regarding tax incentives for creatives, over 60 percent of engagements with the Ghana Revenue Authority have been completed, with efforts to finalize the process being expedited. Consultations are also underway with the Ministry's legal adviser to review the Tourism Development Levy's utilization for equitable sector distribution.
Finally, Madam Gomashie emphasized the Ministry's collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and other stakeholders to promote Ghana's tourism, arts, and cultural goods through diplomatic missions abroad. This includes participation in ECOFEST and partnerships for festivals in various countries, with an upcoming engagement in South Korea.
Madam Gomashie concluded by affirming that tourism, culture, and the creative arts are present contributors to jobs, revenue, and national identity, positioning Ghana as a destination for visitors, investors, and those wishing to belong.