In a crucial move toward fostering the growth of Ghana’s Creative Arts Sector, the Creative Arts for Development organization extends heartfelt commendations to Vice President and NPP flagbearer, Dr. Bawumia.

Their appreciation stems from his dynamic involvement in shaping the industry’s future and the impactful address delivered at UPSA on 7th February 2024.

Amidst the challenges of 2020, Vice President Bawumia’s strategic roadmap to elevate practitioners within the sector resonates with the aspirations of Creative Arts for Development. His visionary emphasis on digitalization and growth signifies a steadfast commitment to driving positive progress, addressing hurdles brought about by external factors like the COVID-19 pandemic.

The proposed initiatives, spanning the introduction of digital platforms for artists, tax incentives, and a visa-on-arrival policy for international visitors, align seamlessly with the organization’s goals. These steps signal a transformative journey for the sector, promising a more conducive working environment and a thriving ecosystem for creative minds.

In a statement signed by Convener Socrate Safo and Secretary Tawfik P. Meek, they express sincere gratitude to H.E. Vice President Bawumia and eagerly anticipate continued collaboration in realizing their shared vision for the advancement of Ghana’s Creative Arts Sector.

Below is the full statement

PRESS RELEASE

CREATIVE ARTS FOR DEVELOPMENT

The Creative Arts for Development expresses its full support and appreciation to Vice President and NPP flagbearer, Dr. Bawumia, for actively engaging with our members to discuss the future of the Creative Arts Sector, and for his impactful address to the General Public at UPSA on 7th February 2024.

Despite the significant challenges faced by the government in 2020 due to external factors such as the COVID-19 pandemic, we applaud Vice President Bawumia for outlining a strong roadmap to uplift practitioners in the industry. His vision for the sector, with a focus on digitalization and growth, resonates with our own aspirations and demonstrates a commitment to driving positive progress.

His proposed initiatives, including the introduction of digital and streaming platforms for artists, tax incentives for the creative industry, and the implementation of a visa-on-arrival policy for international visitors to Ghana, are pivotal steps that align with our goals for the sector’s advancement. The promise of a friendly working environment through these progressive policies bodes well for the industry’s future.

Furthermore, the advocacy for a flat rate tax for SMEs not only benefits small businesses but also promises great advantages for the creative arts industry, providing fairer taxes and eliminating the burden of aggressive invigilating that has hindered event organizers. Additionally, the December in GH program, launched by the Ghana Tourism Authority in 2019, has significantly benefited various aspects of the industry, including musicians, event organizers, producers, equipment vendors, set designers, sound engineers etc.

We extend our sincere gratitude to H.E. Vice President Bawumia for his engagement, and we eagerly anticipate further collaboration as we work towards achieving our collective vision for the Creative Arts Sector.

Thank you!

SOCRATE SAFO – CONVENER
TAWFIK P. MEEK – SECRETARY