By Leo Nelson
Minister for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Abla Dzifa Gomashie has called for a shift in national mindset to recognise creative professionals as vital contributors to Ghana’s development.
She said persistent challenges, including limited corporate sponsorship and the under valuation of practitioners, especially in niche areas such as choral and children-focused productions were constraining growth in the sector.
The Minister made the call during a meeting with the Harmonious Chorale, where discussions centred on the group’s upcoming international engagements and broader concerns within Ghana’s creative industry.
She noted that systemic challenges continued to affect the sector, with many creatives struggling to attract corporate support due to insufficient recognition of the industry’s economic and cultural value.
The Minister said this had resulted in inadequate compensation and the marginalization of practitioners, despite their significant role in shaping national identity and promoting Ghana globally.
According to her, a deliberate reorientation was needed to position the creative arts as a viable and essential pillar of national development.
Minister Gomashie stressed the importance of increased investment and stronger institutional support to enable industry players to thrive and to enhance Ghana’s cultural presence on the global stage.
She commended the Harmonious Chorale for its professionalism and consistent international achievements, describing the group as a strong Ghanaian brand.
However, she emphasised the need for structured engagement with the Ministry, urging stakeholders to submit formal proposals ahead of planned activities.
This, she explained, would ensure better coordination within the Ministry’s administrative processes and sustain continuity beyond individual office holders.
The Chorale, led by Amanda Efua Abrokwah, briefed the Ministry on its activities, achievements, and preparations for participation in the Festival of Orthodox Church Music.
The group, with nearly two decades of experience, has played a significant role in promoting choral music both locally and internationally.
It disclosed that it had been invited rather than having applied to participate in the festival for the second time, following its impressive performance at the 2019 edition, where it was the only African choir featured.
As part of its itinerary, the group is expected to travel in June, with a stopover in Amsterdam for additional engagements.
The Chorale is seeking the Ministry’s support to facilitate introductions to Ghana’s embassies in Poland and the Netherlands, as well as assistance with funding and official documentation for visa applications.
It also highlighted ongoing challenges in securing corporate sponsorship for choral music in Ghana, noting that while it had made independent fundraising efforts, additional support was needed to fully execute its international plans.
In response, Minister Gomashie pledged the Ministry’s support, indicating that official letters of recommendation would be provided to strengthen the group’s engagement with potential sponsors and partners.
