The Foundation of Concerned Arts Professionals (FOCAP), a staunch advocate for reform within Ghana’s creative sector, has reiterated its commitment to positive change, lauding the recent strides made by the Creative Arts Agency (CAA) under the new administration of the National Democratic Congress (NDC). FOCAP’s emergence during the previous New Patriotic Party (NPP) government was initially met with skepticism, with some perceiving the group as politically motivated. However, FOCAP consistently emphasized its non-partisan nature, asserting that its primary objective was to promote transparency, accountability, and progress within the creative industry, irrespective of the political party in power. Their continued advocacy throughout the NPP’s tenure underscores their commitment to these principles.
During the NPP’s reign, FOCAP served as a vocal critic, highlighting various irregularities and governance lapses within the creative sector, particularly at the CAA. Their concerns, ranging from illegal appointments to operational inconsistencies, often went unaddressed by the then-governing party, leading to frustration and a sense of stagnation within the industry. FOCAP tirelessly pointed out the illegality of Gyankroma Akufo-Addo’s appointment as Executive Secretary, a position they argued contravened established legal frameworks. They also raised concerns about the use of a private website presented as the official CAA platform and the confusing duality of the Agency’s logo, which was shared with a private entity, creating ambiguity and potentially compromising the Agency’s identity. Despite their consistent appeals, the NPP government failed to rectify these issues, leading to a prolonged period of uncertainty and dysfunction within the creative sector.
The transition to the NDC government marked a turning point. FOCAP has described the new administration as “a listening government,” acknowledging the swift and decisive actions taken to address the longstanding challenges within the creative sector. The NDC government’s proactive approach has been hailed as a breath of fresh air, signaling a commitment to transparency and good governance. This positive shift has not only instilled renewed hope within the industry but also vindicated FOCAP’s persistent advocacy, demonstrating the power of consistent pressure and the importance of holding governing bodies accountable.
The NDC government’s corrective measures have addressed several critical areas of concern previously raised by FOCAP. The contentious issue of the illegal website has been resolved, ensuring that the CAA now operates under a legitimate online platform. The ambiguous logo situation has also been rectified, solidifying the Agency’s distinct identity and eliminating the potential for confusion and misrepresentation. Perhaps most significantly, the appointment of a legally mandated Executive Secretary, Gideon Aryeequaye, in accordance with Act 1048 of 2020 and Article 195 of the Constitution, has brought an end to the period of unconstitutional leadership at the CAA. These decisive actions signify a commitment to adhering to legal frameworks and establishing a foundation of good governance within the creative arts sector.
FOCAP views these positive developments as the initiation of a crucial “reset agenda” for the creative industry, providing a framework for future progress and sustainable growth. By addressing the fundamental issues of governance and legitimacy, the NDC government has paved the way for a more transparent and efficient creative sector. This reset signifies a departure from past irregularities and sets the stage for a more collaborative and productive environment where artists and creative professionals can thrive. The appointment of a qualified Executive Secretary and the anticipated establishment of a governing board signal a return to proper procedure, laying the groundwork for a more structured and accountable CAA.
FOCAP’s commendation extends beyond the immediate changes implemented by the NDC government. The organization has also expressed gratitude to the leadership at the Ministry of Tourism, Culture, and Creative Arts, acknowledging their role in facilitating the reforms. The swift response to the long-standing inefficiencies and irregularities underscores a shared commitment to revitalizing the creative sector. Furthermore, FOCAP has specifically acknowledged Gideon Aryeequaye, the newly appointed Executive Secretary, for his proactive approach to addressing the challenges inherited from the previous administration. Looking ahead, FOCAP calls upon all stakeholders within the creative sector to embrace the ongoing reforms and work collaboratively towards building a robust and thriving creative economy. This call for unity emphasizes the collective responsibility for nurturing the creative industry and leveraging its potential for economic growth and cultural enrichment.
