Kwame Asare Obeng, popularly recognized as A Plus and the Member of Parliament for Gomoa Central, delivered a compelling endorsement of Dzifa Gomashie’s nomination for the position of Minister for Tourism, Culture, and Creative Arts. During a parliamentary debate on January 23, 2025, A Plus emphasized Gomashie’s profound involvement in the creative arts sector, highlighting her experience as a former deputy minister during John Mahama’s first term, along with her significant contributions as an actress, screenwriter, and a pivotal figure in the growth of the creative arts industry. He argued that her multifaceted background equipped her with the necessary expertise to excel in the ministerial role, particularly in identifying and nurturing talent, especially within rural communities.
A Plus underscored Ghana’s abundant, yet untapped tourism potential, drawing parallels between the nation’s historical and cultural sites and internationally renowned destinations. He pointed out the attraction of historical and religious sites in other countries, such as Israel, where tourists flock to locations associated with biblical narratives. He contrasted this with Ghana’s own rich history, referencing sites like Kwame Nkrumah’s residence upon his return to Ghana, emphasizing the potential of these locations to draw tourists and generate revenue if properly developed and promoted. This comparison served to illustrate the potential for Ghana to leverage its historical and cultural heritage to attract global tourism.
Expressing his strong belief in Gomashie’s ability to transform the tourism and creative arts landscape, A Plus called for both parliamentary and public support for her nomination. He expressed optimism that her leadership would usher in a new era for these sectors, ultimately contributing to national development. His endorsement reflected a broader sentiment within the creative arts and tourism sectors, where Gomashie’s potential appointment was met with anticipation and hope for the revitalization and promotion of Ghana’s cultural heritage and tourism industry.
Dzifa Gomashie’s nomination as Minister for Tourism, Culture, and Creative Arts represents a significant opportunity for Ghana to capitalize on its rich cultural heritage and boost its tourism sector. Her background as a creative arts practitioner, coupled with her political experience, positions her uniquely to understand the needs and challenges of the industry. A Plus’s strong endorsement underscores the belief in her ability to drive positive change, focusing on developing and promoting both established and emerging talents, as well as maximizing the potential of Ghana’s historical and cultural sites to attract international tourists and generate revenue.
The focus on developing rural talent is crucial for equitable growth and ensuring that opportunities are not limited to urban centers. This approach could lead to the discovery and nurturing of hidden talents, fostering greater inclusivity within the creative arts sector. Furthermore, by drawing attention to Ghana’s historical and cultural landmarks, A Plus’s argument highlights the need for strategic investment in these sites. Developing infrastructure, enhancing accessibility, and crafting compelling narratives around these locations can transform them into attractive tourist destinations, boosting the local economy and showcasing Ghana’s rich history to the world.
Ultimately, the success of Gomashie’s potential tenure will rely on collaborative efforts. The support from parliament and the public, as advocated by A Plus, is crucial for creating an enabling environment for the implementation of effective policies and initiatives. This collaborative spirit, coupled with Gomashie’s experience and vision, holds the promise of a revitalized tourism and creative arts sector that contributes significantly to Ghana’s economic and cultural development. The anticipation surrounding her nomination signifies a collective hope for a brighter future for these sectors, with the potential to unlock untold opportunities for Ghana on the global stage.
