SONA 25: Mahama unveils bold vision for Ghana’s tourism, culture, and creative arts

President John Dramani Mahama has reaffirmed his commitment to transforming Ghana’s tourism, culture, and creative arts sector, emphasizing its crucial role in job creation, economic growth, and cultural exchange.

Delivering his first State of the Nation Address (SONA) since beginning his second term, President Mahama highlighted the government's ambitious initiatives aimed at positioning Ghana as a premier global tourism destination.

A key highlight of his address was the introduction of The Black Star Experience, a flagship initiative designed to establish Ghana as the gateway to Africa for the global diaspora. This program will feature a curated blend of cultural, historical, and creative arts experiences, developed in collaboration with the private sector, diplomatic missions, and government agencies.

"The Black Star Experience will be a uniquely Ghanaian tourism brand, integrating Pan African Month celebrations with street carnivals, film week, a fashion festival, a food fair, theatrical performances, and concert party competitions," Mahama stated. He added that the initiative would also incorporate monthly domestic tourism destinations to encourage local travel and cultural immersion.

The President further emphasized Ghana’s potential as a Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) tourism hub, leveraging the country's peaceful and democratic environment to attract international summits, business conventions, and high-profile gatherings.

Mahama also announced plans to revive the stalled Accra Marine Drive Project, a major urban redevelopment initiative aimed at transforming 241 acres of Accra’s coastline into a vibrant tourism and economic hub. Originally approved by his Cabinet in 2016, the project saw little progress under the previous administration.

"We will reassess the work completed and take decisive action to bring this vital project back on track," he assured.

Additionally, he outlined plans to develop the historic Osu Castle and its surroundings into a major tourist attraction, featuring arts and craft markets, a jewellery and gold market, and a pedestrian-friendly precinct.

With these initiatives, Mahama aims to solidify Ghana’s reputation as the Centre of the World, maximizing the country's tourism potential while preserving its rich cultural heritage.