Former President John Dramani Mahama has reaffirmed his commitment to investing in Ghana’s tourism and creative sectors as a cornerstone of national development.
Speaking at the launch of the Black Star Experience on Thursday, May 1, Mahama described the initiative as a flagship programme under his 120-day social contract, aimed at revitalizing the industry and repositioning Ghana as the cultural and creative capital of Africa.
He stressed the need for targeted support to creative professionals and pledged to amplify Ghana’s cultural identity through digital and physical platforms.
Unveiling the initiative, Mahama emphasized that Black Star Experience represents a solemn national pledge to rebrand Ghana through the power of culture.
He highlighted the country’s rich artistic heritage from music, festivals, and fashion to cuisine, film, and storytelling as major tools for reshaping global perceptions of Ghana.
He painted a vivid panorama of cultural celebration, referencing iconic festivals such as Hogbetsotso, Chale Wote, Fetu Afahye, Odwira, Aboakyer, Homowo, and Bugum, envisioning them as part of a global showcase of Ghanaian creativity.
Mahama further envisioned a tourism model that goes beyond sightseeing, inviting visitors to engage deeply with Ghanaian traditions and return as ambassadors of the country’s heritage.
“Imagine tourists not simply visiting Ghana, but immersing themselves in our heritage, experiencing our stories, and returning home as cultural ambassadors of Ghana,” he said.
The Black Star Experience aims to transform local creative energy into a strategic economic driver while solidifying Ghana’s place on the global cultural map.
