President Mahama should appoint the right people to arts institutions – Akofa Edjeani

Celebrated Ghanaian actress Akofa Edjeani has called on President John Dramani Mahama to ensure that key positions in the creative arts sector are filled with individuals who possess the expertise and vision to drive the industry forward.

In an interview with Lexis Bill on Joy FM’s Drive Time, Akofa emphasised the need for a strategic reset in the sector, urging the President to prioritise qualified appointments as part of his administration’s efforts to rebuild Ghana’s creative landscape.

“This time around, we should have a roundtable discussion—a serious one—and set things straight. Let’s reset and rebuild as the president is saying,” Akofa noted. “If he is serious about that, then he should put in place the right people who understand the socio-economic impact of the arts, the rebranding it offers, and its potential for employment and wellness growth.”

Akofa stressed the creative arts sector’s importance to national development, highlighting its influence on culture, identity, and the economy.

Akofa underscored the need for a strong foundation to support the sector’s vibrancy. “We need to make sure that we have a firm foundation before we start putting the structures up; otherwise, things are going to be falling apart like they have been doing all these years,” she said.

She lamented the historic neglect of arts and culture, which she described as the “soul of any nation.” “Film and theatre are very important to the growth of any nation. Without culture, you are nothing,” she added, stressing the need for a holistic approach to integrating arts and culture into national priorities.

While President Mahama has yet to announce his ministerial and directorial appointments for tourism, arts, and culture, names like Abla Dzifa Gomashie, Sadiq Abdulai Abu, and Rex Owusu Marfo are being speculated for the top positions.