"Tourism Minister-Designate Dzifa Gomashie to Be Vetted Today: What You Should Know"

Dzifa Abla Gomashie, the nominee for the Ministry of Tourism, Culture, and Creative Arts, is set to face her vetting session today, Wednesday, January 22, 2025. This comes as part of the ongoing ministerial vetting process, which officially began on Monday, January 13, 2025. The session is a crucial part of Parliament’s constitutional duty to assess the qualifications and suitability of those selected to lead various ministries in the new government. Gomashie, a well-established figure in Ghana’s creative and cultural sectors, is anticipated to present her vision for the ministry and her plans to drive the country’s tourism, cultural, and creative arts agendas forward.

Gomashie is an accomplished actress, film producer, scriptwriter, and an influential politician with a track record of service in Ghana’s cultural and creative arts industries. She served as the Deputy Minister of Tourism, Culture, and Creative Arts from 2013 to 2017 during the first tenure of President John Mahama, when the ministry was first established. This role allowed her to play a central part in shaping the country’s cultural policy and promoting the arts. Her political career further extends to her current position as the Member of Parliament for the Ketu South Constituency, where she continues to represent her constituents while also actively participating in national policy discussions.

In addition to her political roles, Gomashie is also a significant traditional figure, serving as the Queen Mother of the Aflao Traditional Area. This position highlights her deep connection to her cultural roots and her commitment to upholding Ghanaian traditions.

Gomashie has an impressive academic background, having earned a Master of Philosophy (2005-2008) in African Studies from the University of Ghana. She also holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts (2000-2003) with First-Class Honors from the same university’s School of Performing Arts and a Diploma in Theatre Arts (1994-1998). These qualifications reflect her dedication to the arts and her strong academic foundation in the fields of culture, arts, and African studies.

Throughout her career, Gomashie has been a passionate advocate for the arts, culture, and heritage of Ghana. During her time as Deputy Minister, she was instrumental in advancing various key initiatives aimed at promoting the country’s cultural identity and creative industries. Some of her significant contributions include playing a pivotal role in the development of the Ghana Culture Policy, which set the framework for the promotion of national cultural heritage. She also worked on the Creative Arts Industry Bill, which laid the groundwork for the establishment of a regulatory framework for the creative arts sector.

Her work has earned her both local and international recognition for her contributions to the arts. Gomashie’s deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities within the cultural sector has positioned her as a leading advocate for the creative arts in Ghana. She is also known for her ability to bridge cultural and political gaps, using her platform to foster greater understanding and appreciation of Ghana’s diverse cultural landscape.

Beyond her governmental roles, Gomashie has contributed to various international cultural initiatives. She is an active member of the Film Federation of the African Union (FEPACI), where she advocates for the advancement of African cinema and the promotion of African films on the global stage. Gomashie is also a rapporteur for the ECOWAS committee focused on the Reparation of Stolen Artefacts of Africa. This role reflects her commitment to addressing critical issues related to the preservation and restitution of Africa’s cultural heritage.

One of Gomashie’s most significant achievements was her involvement in the establishment of the Creative Arts Council, now known as the Creative Arts Agency. This body plays a crucial role in regulating and coordinating the activities of the cultural and creative industries in Ghana, ensuring that these industries have the support and oversight needed to thrive. The agency oversees thirteen distinct sub-sectors, including music, film, dance, theatre, fashion, and visual arts, all of which contribute significantly to the country’s economy and cultural identity.

Gomashie’s vast experience and unwavering commitment to the development of Ghana’s cultural and creative sectors make her an excellent candidate to lead the Ministry of Tourism, Culture, and Creative Arts. If approved, she is expected to continue her work of advancing the country’s cultural heritage, promoting tourism, and nurturing the growth of the creative industries. With her proven track record and expertise, Gomashie is poised to drive the country’s cultural agenda forward, ensuring that Ghana’s rich cultural assets are recognized and celebrated both locally and internationally.