By Hebrews Pouyeli Kumako
The Minister for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Abla Dzifa Gomashie, has deepened government’s engagement with traditional leadership following a high-level courtesy visit to the Otumfuo Osei Tutu II at the Manhyia Palace during the sacred Awukudae.
The visit, led by the Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene, and supported by key government officials, goes beyond ceremonial protocol. It reflects a strategic effort to align national cultural policy with traditional authority systems, which remain central to Ghana’s identity and social structure.
Speaking during the engagement, Hon. Gomashie emphasized that Ghana’s cultural heritage must not only be preserved but also actively integrated into national development planning. She noted that festivals such as Awukudae are not merely symbolic events but living institutions that connect the past, present, and future.
According to her, the role of the Asantehene and the Asanteman Traditional Council is critical in safeguarding cultural values, resolving community issues, and supporting development initiatives. She reaffirmed government’s commitment to deepening collaboration with traditional authorities to enhance tourism, education, and cultural promotion.
The Minister highlighted the importance of leveraging heritage sites and traditional events to boost Ghana’s tourism industry. She indicated that with the right partnerships, cultural festivals in the Ashanti Region could attract both local and international visitors, thereby creating jobs and stimulating local economies.
She further stressed that government is focused on building a strong cultural tourism framework that places traditional institutions at the center of planning and execution.
As part of her visit, Hon. Gomashie toured the Asokwa Interchange, where she interacted with students and observed creative works undertaken by young people. She praised their innovation and dedication, describing them as the future drivers of Ghana’s creative arts and cultural industries.
She encouraged the youth to embrace their talents and take advantage of opportunities within the creative space, noting that skills development and creativity are key to national transformation.
Hon. Gomashie reiterating that Ghana’s strength lies in its cultural diversity and heritage, adding that sustained partnership with traditional authorities will help position the country as a leading cultural and tourism destination in Africa
Source News Volta
