The inaugural Creative Arts Hall of Fame in Sekondi was unveiled by Minister of Tourism, Arts, and Culture Andrew Egyapa Mercer in a momentous occasion on World Tourism Day.
This milestone celebration honors the extraordinary talents that have impacted Ghana’s creative sector and pays tribute to Sekondi’s rich cultural heritage as a musical hotspot.
Folklore has it that many Ghanaian music legends were found at the Hall, which is situated in the Asamansudu suburb of Duawusu.
The Creative Arts Hall of Fame, which is modeled after well-known organizations worldwide, honors the lifetime accomplishments of pioneers in the creative arts.
During the unveiling, Minister Egyapa Mercer said, “These halls of fame stand as testaments to the power of creativity in shaping our world and driving economic growth.”
“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 Minister said, highlighting the sector’s economic significance.
Some of Ghana’s most well-known figures in the creative arts, including 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, are among the inaugural class of inductees.
The Minister declared, “These legends, the first list of inductees, have enhanced our cultural heritage and elevated Ghana’s status on the international scene.”
Egyapa Mercer also revealed plans to include the Hall of Fame into the Center for National Culture (CNC) in Sekondi’s current renovations. The idea aims to be replicated around the nation, giving each region a venue to showcase its distinct creative abilities.
The Minister declared that in order to ensure that the contributions made by Ghana’s singers, artists, filmmakers, and cultural giants are continuously acknowledged, new inductees will be added annually at the World Tourism Day celebrations.
The Ghana Tourism Authority’s CEO, Akwasi Agyeman, conveyed his appreciation to all of the industry participants who helped make the initiative a success. He also expressed gratitude to the Sekondi community for their continuous support.
He remarked, “Let’s celebrate our national heroes and keep promoting the arts and culture that truly distinguish Ghana.”
Leaders in the industry, traditional chiefs, religious leaders, and youth groups were present at the occasion. The official ceremony for induction is scheduled for October 22, 2024.