‘Culture not just symbol of identity, but a strategic asset to drive growth’

​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