By Seli Baisie
President John Mahama has reaffirmed his government’s commitment to revitalizing Ghana’s arts and tourism industry by developing Osu Castle into a more attractive tourist site.
“We will develop the Osu Castle, the former seat of Government, and the area surrounding it as a tourist attraction, a pedestrian precinct, with arts and craft markets, and a jewellery and gold market,” he disclosed.
Speaking during his State of the Nation Address on February 27, 2025, Mahama outlined his vision to position Ghana as the gateway to Africa for the global diaspora.
“Our flagship initiative, ‘THE BLACK STAR EXPERIENCE,’ aims to establish Ghana as the gateway to Africa for the global diaspora, featuring thoughtfully curated cultural, historical, and creative arts experiences in collaboration with the private sector, diplomatic missions, ministries, departments, and agencies,” he said.
The President also announced the introduction of the Pan African Month, which will be part of the Black Star Experience.
“It will include street carnivals, film week, a fashion festival, a food fair, theatrical and drama performances, concert party competitions, and monthly domestic tourism destinations.”
To further expand Ghana’s tourism sector, Mahama highlighted the importance of Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) tourism.
“Ghana’s peaceful and democratic environment positions us as an attractive hub for international summits, business conventions, and high-profile gatherings. We must capitalize on this unique advantage to maximize our benefits and strengthen our reputation as the Centre of the World,” he said.
Mahama also reiterated his commitment to reviving the Accra Marine Drive Project, a major urban redevelopment initiative aimed at transforming 241 acres of Accra’s coastline into a tourism and economic hub.
“Although the Cabinet approved this vital project during my presidency in 2016, progress stalled under the previous administration. We will reassess the work completed and take decisive action to bring this important project back on track,” he stated.
As part of efforts to drive Ghana’s creative industry forward, Mahama has appointed key figures in the sector to government positions.
Rex Omar has been named a presidential staffer for the Black Star Experience, Kofi Okyere Darko has been appointed as Director of Diaspora Affairs, and Abeiku Santana will serve as Deputy CEO of the Ghana Tourism Authority.
Mahama emphasized that his administration is dedicated to empowering the creative industry and making tourism a key driver of economic growth in Ghana.
