Calls for Dzifa Gomashie's Removal Ring Through the Creative Sector

As the creative sector in Ghana faces crucial challenges, Kwaku Osei Korankye Asiedu, (KOKA), a prominent figure in the entertainment realm and a New Patriotic Party (NPP) activist, passionately voices dissatisfaction with the current Minister of Tourism, Culture, and Creative Arts, Abla Dzifa Gomashie’s performance. According to GhanaWeb, he has openly called for her dismissal, citing her lack of impact since assuming office ten months ago.

Failing to Expand Cultural Influence

KOKA argues that the minister’s narrowly focused efforts in her home region, the Volta Region, have left significant parts of the country’s cultural landscape underdeveloped. He questioned the minister’s absence at key cultural gatherings, which he believes could have elevated “funeral tourism” to promote economic growth. Events like the Dote Yie of the Asantehemaa and Daddy Lumba’s one-week observation at the Independence Square were missed opportunities.

The Unseen Power of Funeral Tourism

Funeral tourism, an often-overlooked component of the cultural economy, could potentially create substantial value. However, with the minister’s visible absence from these events, the opportunity to innovate and bolster the creative economy remains largely untapped. “We are losing out on spotlighting our culture beyond our borders,” KOKA emphasized.

The Bright Spots of Ghana’s Tourism

Despite the minister’s perceived inaction, the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) under the leadership of Maame Efua Houadjeto and Abeiku Santana has been applauded for their proactive stance in advancing tourism and cultural initiatives. KOKA highlights their efforts as a beacon of hope amidst a stagnating ministerial leadership.

A Call for Immediate Change

KOKA’s forceful commentary doesn’t shy away from calling for a leadership shift, reflecting a broader sentiment among stakeholders in the creative arts sector. “Gomashie’s tenure needs a rethink,” he declared. Such candid assessments indicate a growing impatience and an urgent call for a more inclusive and dynamic approach to the country’s cultural and creative arts management.

The Future of Ghana’s Creative Landscape

The demand for Dzifa Gomashie’s dismissal is more than just a critique of her tenure; it’s an urgent plea for visionary leadership capable of realizing the full potential of Ghana’s rich cultural heritage. The postulate is clear: only with leadership that embraces every region can the creative sector thrive and shine on a global stage.