Ghana’s arts and tourism sector, a potential powerhouse for economic growth and cultural preservation, finds itself grappling with significant challenges, primarily stemming from a lack of strategic vision and inadequate government support. George Quaye, President of the Arts and Tourism Writers Association, articulates this concern by highlighting the absence of a cohesive long-term plan for the sector’s development. This lack of vision manifests in various ways, from the neglect of basic infrastructure and marketing initiatives to the marginalization of arts and tourism in political party manifestos. Quaye argues that this systemic neglect underscores a fundamental failure to recognize the industry’s potential contribution to national development.
The absence of a clear roadmap for the sector’s growth is evident in the lack of even basic signage directing tourists to key attractions. Quaye points to the absence of billboards indicating the distance to historical sites like Cape Coast Castle, symbolizing a broader failure to invest in promoting and facilitating access to Ghana’s cultural heritage. This lack of investment extends beyond signage to encompass broader infrastructural deficiencies, hindering the overall tourist experience and limiting the sector’s potential. Quaye emphasizes the need for a proactive, visionary approach that anticipates and addresses the needs of the industry, rather than reacting to problems after they arise. He calls for a shift from short-term, piecemeal interventions to a comprehensive, long-term strategy that prioritizes sustainable growth and development.
Furthermore, the marginalization of arts and tourism in political discourse further exacerbates the sector’s challenges. Quaye criticizes the tendency of political parties to prioritize sectors like agriculture, education, and the economy in their manifestos, relegating arts and tourism to a secondary status. This neglect, he argues, reflects a lack of understanding of the sector’s potential to contribute to economic diversification, job creation, and cultural preservation. He calls for a paradigm shift in political thinking, urging parties to incorporate robust policies for arts and tourism development into their platforms. These policies should encompass investments in infrastructure, marketing campaigns, and capacity-building initiatives to empower stakeholders and unlock the sector’s full potential.
Quaye’s critique extends to the nature of proposed interventions within the sector, suggesting that even when considered, they often miss the mark. He points to proposals for creating new TV stations and online platforms, arguing that these initiatives represent a misplaced focus when simpler, more effective solutions are readily available. Rather than investing in new media infrastructure, Quaye suggests focusing on “low-hanging fruit,” such as improving existing infrastructure, enhancing marketing efforts, and providing targeted support to artists and tourism operators. This pragmatic approach would yield more immediate and impactful results, laying the foundation for more ambitious projects in the future.
The lack of a comprehensive vision for the sector is not only evident in government policies but also in the broader public discourse surrounding arts and tourism. Quaye notes the difficulty in getting ideas heard and implemented, suggesting a lack of receptiveness to alternative perspectives and a tendency to prioritize top-down decision-making. He underscores the need for a more inclusive and collaborative approach to policy development, one that actively engages stakeholders and values their expertise. This participatory approach would ensure that policies are informed by the realities on the ground and effectively address the needs of the industry.
Ultimately, revitalizing Ghana’s arts and tourism sector requires a fundamental shift in perspective. It demands a recognition of the sector’s inherent value, not merely as a source of entertainment but as a crucial driver of economic growth, cultural preservation, and national identity. This recognition must be translated into concrete action, manifested in robust policies, strategic investments, and a commitment to long-term planning. By adopting a more visionary and inclusive approach, Ghana can unlock the vast potential of its arts and tourism sector, transforming it into a cornerstone of the nation’s economy and a source of pride for its people. The challenge lies in translating the existing awareness of the sector’s potential into a concerted effort to overcome the current obstacles and create a sustainable and thriving industry.
