In a significant event for World Tourism Day, Minister of Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Andrew Egyapa Mercer, unveiled the first-ever Creative Arts Hall of Fame in Sekondi.
This milestone celebration pays homage to Sekondi’s deep cultural roots as a musical hub, honoring the exceptional talents that have shaped Ghana’s creative sector.
The Hall, located at Duawusu in Asamansudu, a suburb of Sekondi, is steeped in folklore as the place where many Ghanaian music legends were discovered.
Modeled after renowned institutions around the world, the Creative Arts Hall of Fame recognizes the lifetime achievements of pioneers in the creative arts.
“These halls of fame stand as testaments to the power of creativity in shaping our world and driving economic growth,” stated Minister Egyapa Mercer during the unveiling.
Highlighting the economic importance of the sector, the Minister remarked, “The creative arts sector is not only a vital contributor to our economy but also fuels tourism, stimulates export revenues, and creates numerous job opportunities.”
The inaugural class of inductees includes some of Ghana’s most iconic figures in the creative arts, such as Paapa Yankson, AB Crentsil, Felicia Abban, Ebo Taylor, Kwaw Ansah, Jewel Ackah, Joris Watenburg, Mike Eghan, Ray Allen, Gyedu Blay Ambolley, CK Mann, and Nana Bosompra.
“These legends, the first list of inductees have enriched our cultural heritage and elevated Ghana’s presence on the global stage,” the Minister said.
Egyapa Mercer also shared plans to integrate the Hall of Fame into the ongoing renovations at the Centre for National Culture (CNC) in Sekondi, with intentions to replicate the initiative across the country, ensuring that every region has a platform to celebrate its unique creative talents.
To keep the recognition ongoing, the Minister announced that new inductees will be added each year during the World Tourism Day celebrations, ensuring continuous acknowledgment of contributions by Ghana’s artists, musicians, filmmakers, and cultural icons.
The CEO of the Ghana Tourism Authority, Akwasi Agyeman, expressed his gratitude to the various industry stakeholders who contributed to the project’s success. He also thanked the Sekondi community for their unwavering support.
“Together, let us celebrate our national heroes and continue to promote the arts and culture that make Ghana truly unique,” He said.
The event was attended by industry leaders, traditional chiefs, religious leaders, and youth groups. An official induction ceremony is set for October 22, 2024.
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