New Dawn for Ghana’s Creative Arts Sector: Gideon Aryeequaye Appointed as Executive Secretary

In a move that has been hailed as a major boost to Ghana’s creative arts sector, Gideon Aryeequaye has been appointed as the substantive Executive Secretary of the Creative Arts Agency (CAA). This development has been welcomed with enthusiasm by stakeholders in the industry, who see it as a sign of the government’s commitment to the growth and development of the sector.

According to Kojo Preko Dankwa, President of the Federation of Concerned Arts Professionals (FOCAP), the appointment of Aryeequaye marks the beginning of a new era for the creative arts sector. “This is a welcoming news, and I am so happy the right process and channel has been used,” he said.

FOCAP President, Kojo Preko Dankwa

Aryeequaye takes over from Gyankroma Akufo-Addo, who led the agency since its establishment in 2020. His appointment is seen as a strategic move to drive the Black Star Experience agenda, aimed at boosting Ghana’s culture, art, and tourism sector .

As the first official appointee to the position, Aryeequaye brings a wealth of experience to the role, having served as Deputy CEO of the Ghana Tourism Development Company (GTDC) during the previous administration of President John Dramani Mahama.

The Creative Arts Agency is responsible for prescribing standards for the regulation of the creative arts industry, creating an enabling environment for arts education and practitioners, and promoting collaborations with institutions in the creative arts sector .

Dankwa, who has been a vocal advocate for the development of the creative arts sector, urged Aryeequaye and his team to speed up their work and make their presence felt by the creatives. “The creative industry is hungry for success. The task is not easy, but I trust you and your team will deliver,” he said.

The appointment of Aryeequaye has been hailed as a major step forward for the creative arts sector, and stakeholders are eagerly awaiting the establishment of a board to support the agency’s work. With the right leadership and support, the sector is poised for growth and development, and Aryeequaye’s appointment is seen as a key step in achieving this goal.