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Rethinking National Budgets: Why Ghana Must Prioritize the Creative Economy- FOCAP Vice President Mel Kwesi Davis

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When Sarkodie’s Rapperholic lit up Kumasi, it was more than just a concert. It was proof that Ghana’s creative sector isn’t a fringe industry, it’s an engine of growth, employment, identity and global relevance. The evidence is mounting: culture does drive commerce. Yet, paradoxically, our national budgets keep postponing the investment that’s already paid for itself many times over.
Here’s what recent data tells us and why immediate structural funding for the creative economy is not just desirable but essential.
https://youtu.be/S29XDWzzGOs?si=ctj5cLGLbJIWzRXq
Youth Unemployment & Underemployment.
The unemployment rate among youth aged 15-35 is around 19.7% as of 2023.
Among those aged 15-24, the rate is about 32%.
In the broader 15-35 age group, 22.5% are without employment.
Gender and geography matter: young women face higher unemployment (≈ 22.3%) compared with young men (≈ 17.4%). Urban areas show somewhat worse rates than rural ones.
There are also large numbers of youth classified as “NEET” (Not in Education, Employment, or Training). For example, about 1.8 million youth (roughly 28.8% of those aged 15-24) fell into this category in recent surveys.
The youth population continues to grow: in the 2020 Population & Housing Census, youth made up 38.2% of Ghana’s population.
The Creative Sector and the GDP of Ghana.
In 2022, the Global Citizen Festival held in Accra injected over USD 15 million into Ghana’s economy via production spending, hotels, transport, advertising, security and related services.
Creative sector share of GDP: The last formal estimate (UNESCO, 2010) placed Ghana’s cultural & creative industries at 1.53 % of GDP, counting only formal industries. Experts believe the figure is notably higher if informal creative activity is included.
Government stakeholders and commentators have posited that the creative industry could be leveraged to generate US$4 billion by 2028 in revenue for Ghana, if properly supported
In 2023, the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture was allocated GH¢115,694,000; in 2024, this rose to GH¢260,948,961. Strikingly, in the 2025 budget, the tourism and creative arts sector was not mentioned or allocated any funds..
Other African countries offer models: Rwanda’s creative & arts sectors reportedly contribute 5.3% of GDP. Kenya has set objectives (through its arts & digital innovation strategies) for double-digit contributions (10%) in the near term.
The Global Citizen Festival example (2022) saw increased hotel occupancy (75%), over 5,000 international travellers coming for the event and over 1,000 local people employed for the event.
“December In GH” (a mix of concerts, festivals, fashion shows and cultural events) is increasing in scale: about 115,000 people in Dec 2023 vs 108,000 in Dec 2022, highlighting growing demand for cultural-tourism moments
Armed with the information stated and other research materials, below are some proposed allocation spends for the government to consider.
1. Component: Creative Sector Emergency Fund
Purpose: Immediate relief for event promoters, artists, and venue owners to help with production, logistics, safety, licensing, etc.
Proposed Allocation: Set aside ≈ GH¢150-200 million ring-fenced within mid-year budget or via supplementary funding to MoTAC (Ministry of Tourism, Arts & Culture). This could be matched with private sector/donor contributions.
2. Component: Annual Creative Infrastructure Budget.
Purpose: Build and maintain venues (concert halls, studios, outdoor amphitheatres) especially in regions outside Accra; upgrade lighting, acoustics, seating, security.
Proposed Allocation: Over 3 years, allocate GH¢500 million total with phased rollout: e.g., GH¢150 million in Year 1, GH¢175 million in Year 2, GH¢175 million in Year 3. Prioritise regional hubs (e.g., Kumasi, Takoradi, Tamale).
3. Component: Skills Development, Training & Mentorship.
Purpose: Since many youth are unemployed or underemployed, targeted creative sector training (sound engineering, stage production, digital content creation, event management) can upskill them; mentorship to help professionalise creative work.
Proposed Allocation: Allocate GH¢30-40 million annually for this purpose; partner with YEA (Youth Employment Agency), private sector, NGOs; include accelerator or incubator programs.
4. Component: Tax Incentives & Support for Youth Creative Startups.
Purpose: Young people often struggle with the cost of equipment, licensing, and venue booking; incentives would reduce barriers to entry.
Proposed Allocation: Introduce tax rebates for young creative entrepreneurs; matching grants; subsidised access to public venues; GH¢50-70 million/year set aside for these incentives.
5. Component: Data & Monitoring with Youth-Specific Indicators.
Purpose: To track how many youth are employed in creative sectors, rates of underemployment, gender splits, informal vs formal status, and help policy targeting.
Allocation: Commission Ghana Statistical Service, in collaboration with MoTAC, to design and implement a youth creative employment survey; GH¢10-15 million/year.
6. Component: Emergency & Youth Creative Fund. 
Purpose: 30,000–50,000 youth (across event production, artist support, promotion, media)
Proposed Mechanic: Based on scaling existing small festivals and creative businesses, plus matching private sector investment.
7. Component: Infrastructure & Venues in Regions.
Purpose: 50,000–80,000 youth employed in construction, maintenance, event services, and venue management
Mechanic: Assumes phased build-out of regional creative hubs, studios and public performance spaces.
7. Component: Skills Development / Masterclasses / Incubation. 
Purpose: 70,000–100,000 youth upgraded into formal or semi-formal creative sector roles (production, sound engineering, video, design, digital media)
Mechanic: With regular cohort training, mentorship, and accredited programs.
8. Component: Incentives & Startup Seed Capital.
Purpose: 20,000–30,000 youth can start small creative enterprises and sustain them over 2-3 years
Mechanic: With tax breaks, grants/subsidies, capital support, and business training.
Why Waiting Is Costing Ghana.
Each systemically underfunded event or delayed infrastructure means local businesses lose out on income (hotels, food vendors, transportation) that do not get recovered..
Branding & tourism relations: Cultural festivals, concerts, and artist branding help attract international visitors. Ghana has already seen successes like “Year of Return” and “Global Citizen” having a spillover into tourism. Failing to capitalise means losing to competing African countries.
Inflation / rising costs: The cost of production, importation of equipment, venue maintenance, security, etc., is rising. What seems viable now may be unaffordable later. Early investment often gets more “bang for cedi.”
With the 2025 budget notably omitting allocations for tourism & the creative arts, the government sends the wrong signal: that promises are more valuable than follow-through, but budget mechanics exist; policies can be structured; allocations can be made. Nations are built in the present.
Mel Kwesi Davis.
Vice President of the Foundation Of Concerned Art Professionals (FOCAP).

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Ras Kuuku Says He Is Not Interested in White Women Despite Their Attention

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Ghanaian reggae musician Ras Kuuku has revealed that he is not attracted to white women despite claims that some of them show interest in him because of his Rastafarian identity.

The reggae artiste, speaking in an interview with Nana Romeo on Okay FM, said his decision has nothing to do with his dreadlocks or appearance, explaining that he did not grow his Rasta hairstyle to attract white women.

According to Ras Kuuku, although he receives attention from white women, including through social media, he has chosen not to pursue relationships with them.

“I don’t like white women. I hear they like Rastafarians, but I didn’t grow my Rasta because of them. I don’t even want to have a white child. We are on different sides, and I want it to remain that way,” he said.

The Ghanaian reggae musician added that his position is influenced by his personal interpretation of biblical teachings, stating that he does not support interracial relationships.

Beyond his views on relationships, Ras Kuuku also shared his thoughts about travelling and living abroad.

The musician said Ghana remains a special place for him because of the freedom, weather conditions, and lifestyle the country offers.

He explained that whenever he travels outside Ghana, he misses the country’s environment and social atmosphere.

“What makes me miss Ghana whenever I travel is the freedom here. Outside, the laws are too strict. If not for the fact that their systems work, many people wouldn’t want to stay there,” he stated.

Ras Kuuku further described extreme weather conditions abroad as uncomfortable, noting that both cold and hot seasons can be difficult to endure.

He said Africa is blessed with favourable weather, which is one of the reasons he always looks forward to returning home after international trips.

The reggae artiste concluded that despite the advantages of developed countries, Ghana’s freedom, climate, and way of life remain among the things he values most.

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Osebo Cautions Mourners Over Bottled Water at Apostle Kwadwo Safo Kantanka’s Funeral

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Osebo Cautions Mourners Over Bottled Water: Ghanaian fashion entrepreneur and prominent Kristo Asafo Mission member, Osebo the Zaraman, has advised mourners attending the final funeral rites of the late Apostle Kwadwo Safo Kantanka to exercise caution before drinking bottled water served at the event.

Speaking at the funeral grounds in Gomoa Mpota in the Central Region, Osebo demonstrated what he described as a simple method for determining whether bottled water is safe to drink.

According to him, mourners should first squeeze the bottle before opening it.

He explained that if the bottle compresses easily, it should be discarded. However, if it remains firm and does not collapse, people should still clean the mouth of the bottle with a clean handkerchief before drinking.

“If you’re given bottled water to drink, squeeze the bottle first. If it compresses easily, throw it away. If it doesn’t, clean the mouth of the bottle before drinking it because some people are cobras,” Osebo said.

His remarks drew attention from mourners gathered at the funeral as thousands continue to pay their last respects to the renowned inventor, industrialist and founder of the Kristo Asafo Mission.

Funeral Continues Despite Court Injunction

The final funeral rites of Apostle Kwadwo Safo Kantanka are currently underway at Gomoa Mpota despite a 10-day interim injunction issued by the Accra High Court.

The court order, granted on July 29, 2026, temporarily restrains former Dome-Kwabenya Member of Parliament Sarah Adwoa Safo from proceeding with the funeral arrangements until a legal dispute before the court is resolved.

The injunction followed objections raised by Nana Kwadwo Safo Akofena I, who described the announced burial date as “null and void” due to unresolved disagreements surrounding the funeral arrangements. He indicated that a new burial date would be announced after the legal issues are settled.

Despite the court order, preparations at the funeral venue have continued, with friends, relatives, members of the Kristo Asafo Mission and sympathisers arriving in large numbers, many travelling in chartered buses to honour the late spiritual leader.

@ghana.eye

Live updates:Osibo the Zaraman advised Kristo Asafo Church members for every water there will serve and Drink today at the final funeral rites of Apostle Prof. Emeritus Ing. Kwadwo Safo Kantanka. #ghanaeye #viralvideo #fyp #news #trending

♬ original sound - GHANA EYE

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Okyeame Kwame “No Hep” Song Released to Support Ghana’s Fight Against Hepatitis

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Okyeame Kwame’s ” No Hep” song has been released by Ghanaian rapper and National Hepatitis Ambassador, Okyeame Kwame, as part of efforts to support the country’s campaign to eliminate viral hepatitis.

The new song, titled “No Hep,” is aimed at raising awareness, encouraging Ghanaians to get tested, reducing stigma, and promoting vaccination against hepatitis.

Speaking during an interview on World Hepatitis Day, Okyeame Kwame, popularly known as “The Rap Doctor,” explained that he chose music as a tool because of its ability to reach a wider audience and communicate health messages effectively.

According to him, the Okyeame Kwame No Hep song will help make hepatitis education more relatable and easier for people to understand.

“I made this song because I want to help the ministry promote the elimination of hepatitis from Ghana. Music has the power to drive messages home quickly. If people begin singing ‘No Hep, no more,’ they will be encouraged to go for testing, and the stigma around the disease will reduce,” he said.

The musician revealed that the song will be available on digital platforms including YouTube, Facebook, Spotify, and other major streaming services, while radio stations across the country will also broadcast it to reach more Ghanaians.

Okyeame Kwame also shared that his involvement in hepatitis advocacy started over two decades ago when he discovered the high cost of hepatitis B testing and vaccination while preparing for marriage.

He explained that the situation motivated him to establish an initiative that provided free hepatitis testing to help people access important health services.

The rapper expressed optimism about the progress Ghana has made in the fight against hepatitis, noting that treatment costs have reduced significantly compared to previous years.

He highlighted that hepatitis C medication is now available for free in Ghana, while testing services have also become more accessible.

As part of activities marking World Hepatitis Day, Okyeame Kwame encouraged Ghanaians to take personal responsibility by getting tested, receiving vaccination when necessary, and seeking medical attention if they test positive.

He believes that increased awareness, early detection, and access to treatment will help Ghana achieve its goal of eliminating viral hepatitis in the coming years.

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Okyeame Kwame Named Ghana Health Service Ambassador to Fight Hepatitis

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Ghanaian musician Okyeame Kwame has been appointed as the Ghana Health Service Ambassador to support the country’s national campaign against hepatitis.

The appointment forms part of efforts by the Ghana Health Service (GHS) to strengthen public awareness about hepatitis, encourage preventive measures, and educate Ghanaians on the dangers of the disease. As one of Ghana’s most influential entertainers, Okyeame Kwame is expected to use his platform to reach millions of people with life-saving health messages.

The Okyeame Kwame Ghana Health Service Ambassador initiative seeks to increase public understanding of hepatitis, promote regular screening, and encourage early diagnosis and treatment. Health experts believe that greater public engagement is essential to reducing the burden of hepatitis and preventing avoidable deaths.

According to the Ghana Health Service, effective public education remains one of the strongest tools in the fight against hepatitis. By partnering with respected public figures like Okyeame Kwame, the service hopes to inspire more people to seek testing, vaccination where applicable, and timely medical care.

Okyeame Kwame has built a strong reputation for supporting public health campaigns over the years, making him a suitable choice to champion the fight against hepatitis in Ghana. His appointment is expected to strengthen nationwide advocacy efforts and encourage more communities to participate in hepatitis prevention initiatives.

Health authorities continue to urge Ghanaians to learn about hepatitis, get tested, and seek professional medical advice when necessary, stressing that early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes.

Video credit@ChannelOne Tv

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FOCAP Welcomes New Cultural Attachés, Hails Boost for Ghana’s Creative Diplomacy

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The Foundation of Concerned Arts Professionals (FOCAP) has welcomed the appointment of three new Cultural Attachés (Tourism Officers) to represent Ghana abroad, describing the decision as a landmark achievement for the country’s creative industry and a major boost for cultural diplomacy.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, FOCAP said the appointments validate years of advocacy by the organisation for the establishment of Cultural Attaché positions within Ghana’s diplomatic missions to promote the country’s culture, tourism and creative economy on the global stage.

The organisation congratulated Kokui Selormey, who has been appointed Cultural Attaché (Tourism Officer) to Dubai, Akofa Edzeani, appointed Cultural Attaché (Tourism Officer) to Turkey, and Dr Akosua Abdallah, appointed Cultural Attaché (Tourism Officer) to Malaysia.

According to FOCAP, the appointments demonstrate growing recognition that Ghana’s creative and cultural industries should play a strategic role in the country’s international relations and economic development.

The organisation noted that it has consistently advocated for the creation of Cultural Attaché positions through public campaigns, media engagements and policy discussions, arguing that Ghana’s rich cultural heritage, tourism attractions and creative talents deserve dedicated representation across the world.

Speaking on the appointments, FOCAP President described the development as a significant milestone for Ghana’s creative sector.

“We are delighted that government has listened to the voices of industry stakeholders and has taken steps towards institutionalising cultural diplomacy. The appointment of Cultural Attachés (Tourism Officers) is not just about representation; it is about creating economic opportunities for our creative professionals, promoting Ghana’s identity globally and unlocking the full potential of the Orange Economy.”

FOCAP also praised the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts for responding to the industry’s long-standing calls and taking concrete steps to give Ghana’s culture greater international visibility.

The organisation believes the newly appointed Cultural Attachés can serve as key ambassadors for promoting tourism, increasing creative exports, attracting international investment, strengthening global partnerships and enhancing engagement with the Ghanaian diaspora.

Despite welcoming the appointments, FOCAP urged the government to ensure that future appointments within the creative and cultural sector are based on professional competence, industry experience and proven expertise rather than political considerations.

According to the organisation, the creative economy requires professionals with a deep understanding of cultural diplomacy, intellectual property rights, international creative markets and the business of culture.

FOCAP stressed that Ghana’s embassies should be supported by qualified professionals capable of transforming the country’s creative strengths into economic opportunities.

The organisation further called on government to expand the Cultural Attaché (Tourism Officer) programme to more Ghanaian embassies and high commissions, particularly in countries with strong creative industries, high tourism potential and large Ghanaian communities.

FOCAP also appealed for greater institutional support for independent arts advocacy organisations that continue to influence policy and contribute to the growth of Ghana’s creative sector.

The foundation said it has remained one of the country’s most consistent voices championing reforms in the arts and creative industries through research, stakeholder engagement and policy advocacy aimed at building a sustainable creative economy.

FOCAP concluded by congratulating the newly appointed Cultural Attachés and expressed confidence that they would successfully promote Ghana’s cultural identity, tourism potential and creative aspirations on the international stage.

The organisation reaffirmed its commitment to advocating policies that empower creative professionals, strengthen cultural institutions and position Ghana as a leading force in the global creative economy.

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