Artiste manager and entertainment pundit Nana Poku Ashis has lamented the neglect of many parts of the creative arts sector by the outgoing government.

He expressed hope that the National Democratic Congress (NDC)'s Black Star Experience initiative would provide a much-needed boost to the sector.

In an interview with Hitz FM on January 14, 2024, he highlighted the successful "Year of Return" initiative launched by the previous New Patriotic Party (NPP) administration.

He noted that while the Year of Return had a lasting impact, with people purchasing tickets well in advance for the December festivities, other sectors did not see similar achievements.

“We all know that the December to remember in Ghana or the Year of Return was a big experience for the diasporans. As of January, people had started buying their tickets for December. So it's something that won't be easily forgotten. That particular sector did very well in enhancing the tourism and arts sector. But as for the rest, we didn't see much progress. The rest didn't do anything,” he said.

Ashis expressed his support for the Black Star Experience, highlighting the NDC's willingness to partner with the private sector to achieve their development goals.

He expressed optimism that the Black Star Experience, if properly planned and activated, could become a significant addition to Ghana's tourism and cultural landscape.

“The Black Star Experience by the NDC, if you look through it carefully, they are willing to partner with the private sector to do a lot of their development. So getting other people to come on board is exactly what they have in mind. If properly planned and activated, this Black Star experience would be another great addition to the year of return,” he said.

The Black Star Experience is an initiative by the National Democratic Congress (NDC) aimed at revitalising Ghana's creative arts and tourism sectors.

It includes year-round events such as Pan African Month, Ghana Film Festival and Awards Month, Ghanaian Heritage and History Month, Fashion and Food Month, and Diasporan Month.

The initiative also plans to support young digital content creators, revive the Creative Arts Fund, and partner with the private sector to build modern recreational facilities.

ID/MA

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