Good news for industry players as the Minister of Finance has announced Government’s commitment to invest GHC 38 million into the Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts sector.

Mr. Seth Terkper presenting the 2016 Budget Statement to the Ghanaian Parliament on Friday declared that, GHC 38,918,393.00 which has been allocated to the Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts sector for the year 2016–is part of Government plans to help promote the Ghanaian culture; and help smooth implementation of other projects.

He noted that, GHC 28,761,706.00 of the amount will be provided by the Government of Ghana (GoG) while the remaining GHC 10,156,687.00 will be from internally generated funds (IGF).
Mr. Terkper said Government will continue to engage with stakeholders to sell the rich culture of the country through international exhibitions and fairs.

“Stakeholders were engaged for the preparation of the Marine Drive Tourism Development Plan which is aimed at transforming the entire stretch of Land from the Osu Castle to the Arts Centre area with variety of tourism facilities,” the Minister said.

He added that, in 2016, the Ministry will continue with its engagement with key stakeholders including MDAs/MMDAs, Traditional Authorities and the private sector to mobilize support for the development and packaging of tourism, culture and creative arts products. “The District Tourism Offices will be commissioned to decentralize tourism administration in the country.”

“It will also organise cultural exchange programmes for entrepreneurs; creative artistes overseas; National Festival of Arts and Culture (NAFAC); Regional and National Drama Festivals for Schools and Colleges; and KIDDAFEST International Youth Programme,” Seth Terkper opined.