Accra, 30th June 2023 – The Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC) of Ghana is pleased to announce the signing of an Eighty-Two Thousand Dollar facility agreement with the UNESCO International Fund for Cultural Diversity (IFCD) to support the project “Review of Ghana’s 2004 Culture Policy”.
The current Culture Policy of Ghana which, dates back to 2004, needs to be reviewed. This has been echoed by stakeholders in the sector on a number of occasions. The policy document requires a review in order to accommodate modern development trends, as a result of our constant interaction with other cultures vis-à- vis globalization, digital revolution, evolution of the creative arts and its impact on emerging economies.
This pivotal initiative aims to redefine and reinforce the country’s cultural landscape, paving the way for a more prosperous and culturally vibrant Ghana. With an emphasis on preserving and promoting the nation’s rich culture, this policy review holds immense potential for social, economic, and sustainable development.
Ghana is known worldwide for its diverse cultural tapestry, encompassing a multitude of ethnic groups, languages, art forms, music, dance, literature and traditional practices. The culture policy review seeks to harness these invaluable assets and channel them into nation-building efforts that benefit all Ghanaians. By strategically leveraging culture as a catalyst for development, the policy aims to
create a vibrant cultural ecosystem that drives economic growth, preserves national identity and fosters social cohesion.
The key objectives of the culture policy review include:
Creative Industries and Cultural Entrepreneurship: The policy will encourage the growth and sustainability of Ghana’s creative industries, such as music, film, fashion, visual arts, crafts, and performing arts. By nurturing the talents and creativity of Ghanaian artists and cultural entrepreneurs, the policy seeks to foster a thriving creative economy that generates income, employment, and foreign exchange earnings. This will position Ghana as a cultural hub and attract international collaborations and investments.
Cultural Heritage Preservation: The policy review will prioritize the protection, conservation, and promotion of Ghana’s tangible and intangible cultural heritage. This includes historical sites, artifacts, oral traditions, traditional knowledge systems, and indigenous practices. Preserving and showcasing Ghana’s rich heritage will not only contribute to national pride, but also enhance tourism potential, creating employment opportunities and economic growth.
Cultural Education and Awareness: The policy review will emphasize the integration of cultural education into formal and informal learning systems. By promoting cultural awareness, understanding and appreciation from an early age, Ghana aims to instill pride in its heritage and strengthen social cohesion among its diverse population. Cultural education will be integrated into school curricula, community programs, and public awareness campaigns.
Cultural Diplomacy and International Collaboration: The policy will facilitate cultural exchange programs, collaborations, and partnerships with other nations. By showcasing Ghana’s vibrant cultural expressions globally, the country can enhance its soft power and strengthen diplomatic ties. These collaborations will foster mutual understanding, facilitate trade, and promote tourism, contributing to Ghana’s global reputation as a cultural powerhouse.
The Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture remains committed to engaging stakeholders from various sectors, including artists, cultural practitioners, academia, civil society organizations, as well as the public, in the policy review process. Their input, expertise and perspectives will shape a comprehensive and inclusive policy framework that reflects the aspirations and needs of all Ghanaians.
The review of Ghana’s Culture Policy is a significant milestone in Ghana’s journey towards sustainable development, cultural preservation and economic empowerment. The Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture invites all stakeholders to actively participate in this transformative process and contribute to the shaping of a vibrant cultural landscape that benefits the nation as a whole.
The IFCD is a voluntary multi-donor fund created under the 2005 UNESCO Convention on the Protection and Promotion of the Diversity of Cultural Expressions to support the emergence of dynamic cultural sectors in developing countries. The Fund aims to support sustainable systems of cultural governance, create an enabling environment for cultural entrepreneurs, facilitate market access and ensure accessibility of diverse cultural expressions for all.
Media Contact:
CONSTANCE ADOMAH TAKYI
HEAD PUBLIC RELATIONS
Email: anntakyi@gmail.com
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