Ghana’s President, John Dramani Mahama, has named Abla Dzifa Gomashie as the Minister-designate for Tourism, Culture, and Creative Arts. The announcement was made on Thursday, January 16, 2025.
Abla Dzifa Gomashie, an accomplished actress, film producer, scriptwriter, and respected politician, currently serves as the Member of Parliament for the Ketu South Constituency. She also holds the esteemed position of Queen Mother in the Aflao Traditional Area, reflecting her deep roots in Ghanaian culture.
This is not her first foray into the ministry. Dzifa Gomashie previously served as Deputy Minister for Tourism, Culture, and Creative Arts under President Mahama from 2013 to 2017, when the ministry was first established. Her prior experience in this role, combined with her unwavering commitment to promoting arts, culture, and heritage, has positioned her as an ideal candidate for the ministerial post.
Dzifa Gomashie’s academic credentials include a Master of Philosophy in African Studies (2005-2008), a Bachelor of Fine Arts with First-Class Honors (2000-2003), and a Diploma in Theatre Arts (1994-1998), all from the University of Ghana. These qualifications underpin her expertise and passion for the creative arts sector.
During her tenure as Deputy Minister, she played a pivotal role in the development and revision of key documents such as the Ghana Culture Policy and the Creative Arts Industry Bill. Her leadership also contributed to the establishment of the Creative Arts Council, now known as the Creative Arts Agency, which oversees and regulates the activities of the cultural and creative industries. Additionally, she has represented Ghana internationally, serving on the FEPACI committee of the African Union and as a rapporteur for the ECOWAS committee on the Repatriation of Stolen African Artefacts.
Many creative arts practitioners have expressed optimism about her appointment, citing her extensive experience in the sector and her deep understanding of the ministry’s operations. They believe she is well-equipped to take on the role of substantive minister and advance the ministry’s agenda.
The Ministry of Tourism, Culture, and Creative Arts oversees 13 agencies, including the Ghana Tourism Authority, National Film Authority, National Theatre, Creative Arts Agency, and the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park.
Dzifa Gomashie’s return to the ministry is expected to bring renewed energy and vision to these agencies as they continue to promote Ghana’s rich cultural heritage and creative industries.
