Entertainment
‘Culture not just symbol of identity, but a strategic asset to drive growth’
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The Executive Director of the National Commission on Culture (NCC), Mr. Wakefield Ackuaku, has called for a strategic effort to empower young creatives to transform Ghana’s cultural resources into drivers of economic transformation and national renewal.
The NCC boss emphasised that culture was no longer just a symbol of identity, but a critical strategic asset which must be harnessed for the country to reap its full benefits.
He made the call at the official launch of the 75th anniversary celebration of the Centre for National Culture (CNC) in the Ashanti Region (Amamrefie) and the opening of the 2026 Otumfuo Osei Tutu II Art and Craft Exhibition.
The twin event, held at the Quarshie Idun Hall in Kumasi on Thursday, was under the theme: “75 Years of Cultural Excellence: Preserving the Past, Empowering the Future.”
Addressing the gathering, Mr Ackuaku described Kumasi as the historic seat of the Asante Kingdom, noting its massive cultural influence across Africa and the global Diaspora.
Commenting on the exhibition, he stated that Otumfuo’s visionary reign has proven that culture was the foundational bedrock of sustainable development rather than an obstacle to it.
He stated that Kumasi’s global reputation had always been built on the harmony between nature, community, and heritage and therefore, challenged stakeholders to support the structural redesign of the Amamrefie facility to become a world-class landmark destination worthy of Ghana’s cultural capital.
In a speech read on behalf of the Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene, he praised the wood carvers, Kente weavers, potters, leather workers, and traditional musicians whose creative exploits have generated massive employment, supported local livelihoods, and projected Ghana on the international stage.
He said government was committed to supporting artists, promote cultural tourism, encourage investment in the creative economy, and position the Ashanti Region’s cultural ecosystem as a strategic pillar for youth employment and local economic development.
The Chairman of the occasion and Otumfuo’s Representative, Nana Kwabena Bonsu III (Otumfuo Suaduhene/Kanin III), made a strong case for structural financial reforms for the creative arts sector.
Events lined-up to commemorate the event includes a students’ drama festival, musical and performance arts to feature live brass band music alongside Kete, Adowa, and Fontomfrom festival among others.
The celebration would be climaxed on November 6 with a grand durbar in honor of Ghana’s rich cultural heritage with guests expected to be adorned in white attires with a touch of Kente.
FROM KINGSLEY E. HOPE, KUMASI
It was a night of colour, culture and creativity as Miss Tourism Ghana successfully held its Regional Costume & Talent Night in Accra.
The event drew fashion lovers, culture enthusiasts, and proud supporters who came out to witness Ghana’s beauty queens represent their regions on one grand stage.
From the moment guests stepped in, the atmosphere was electric, ushering,
Okra, Zabe, Gina, Akpe, Sela, Afia,Asher and Ajua into the auditorium to mesmerize patrons.
The blistering night, commenced with a breathtaking regional costumes rocked by contestants that told stories of Ghana’s traditions from, african print, kente, smock, batakari, beads and other indigenous fabrics.
Each outfit with beautiful local accessories to match was paired with confidence, poise, and pride.
The night then shifted gears into the talent segment. The audience was treated to powerful performances traditional dance, spoken word, fashion, singing, and drama all centered on promoting Ghana’s tourism and heritage.
The judges were stunned with the various displays and passed favorable commentaries encouraging the contestants to keep giving their all.
Patrons left with unforgettable moments, and the contestants delivered to their expectations.
Organisers of Miss Tourism Ghana congratulated all the amazing participants who took part and urged them to forged ahead strongly before the grand final.
They also, encouraged families and friends to keep their favourite in the competition through their campaigns and votes.
The search for Ghana’s next tourism ambassador is officially on, and the competition is getting tighter with each stage.
Beyond the glamour, Miss Tourism Ghana continues to use the platform to market Ghana’s tourist sites, culture and hospitality to the world.
The Regional Costume & Talent Night served as both entertainment and education, reminding Ghanaians of the beauty in our diversity.
By Edem Mensah-Tsotorme
Renowned gospel minister Nana Yaw Boakye known in showbiz circles as MOG Music is set to headline the 2026 edition of Ransomed Ministries Ghana’s Total Worship, September 20, 2026, at the ICGC Jesus Temple in Koforidua.
The annual worship experience aimed at bringing believers together for an evening of praise, prayer and spiritual renewal.
Themed: ‘Jesus Be the Name – Yeshua Hu Ha-Shem,’ seeks to remind believers that, regardless of life’s circumstances, Jesus remains their hope, strength and salvation.
Joining MOG Music on the Total Worship 2026 lineup are acclaimed gospel ministers Alexandrah and Sandra Harley, alongside other worship leaders who will lead attendees in an atmosphere of heartfelt praise, prayer and intimate worship.
Ransomed Ministries Ghana is a non-denominational Christian ministry committed to bringing together and nurturing talents in music, choreography, drama, literature and other creative arts for the advancement of God’s Kingdom.
According to the organisers, Total Worship is more than a musical gathering. It is a platform designed to create an atmosphere where lives can be transformed through worship, while providing an opportunity for people from different backgrounds and Christian communities to unite in exalting the name of Jesus Christ.
By Spectator Reporter
