The government has disbursed more than GH₵30 million through the Tourism Development Fund to promote cultural tourism and strengthen Ghana’s creative industry.

This was disclosed by Dr. Samuel Ofosu Ampofo, Policy Advisor at the Office of the Vice President, during the 61st Oguaaman Fetu Afahye celebration in Cape Coast. He represented Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang at the festival durbar.

Dr. Ampofo said the investment seeks to position tourism as a driver of economic growth and a platform for Ghanaian creatives to thrive.

“Through the Creative Arts Agency, working with the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, the government is investing in unprecedented opportunities for our creatives to flourish, enabling them to earn sustainable livelihoods while raising Ghana’s flag high across the globe,” he stated.

He added that festivals such as the Fetu Afahye remain cultural sanctuaries and engines of economic progress, thanks to strategic investments by the Ghana Tourism Development Company and the Fund.

Dr. Ampofo commended this year’s festival theme, “Innovate to Elevate”, describing it as consistent with government’s broader vision to reset the nation’s economy.

As part of government’s support, the delegation—which included Ghana Tourism Authority CEO Maame Efua Houadjeto and Cape Coast South MP George Kweku Ricketts-Hagan—donated food items, drinks, and cash to the festival.

Osabarima Kwesi Atta II, Paramount Chief of Oguaa Traditional Area, expressed gratitude and urged collaborative efforts to drive development in Cape Coast.

The delegation also paid a courtesy call on the Central Regional Coordinating Council, where Dr. Ampofo encouraged closer collaboration with the Regional Security Council to safeguard peace and security in the region.

On infrastructure, he assured the public of government’s commitment to expedite work on the Accra–Cape Coast road, noting the President’s resolve to confront the country’s road challenges through the “big push” agenda.

“It is almost becoming a nightmare to travel from Accra to the Central Region. We will carry the concerns of the Regional Minister and engage the sector minister to accelerate the pace of work on the project,” he pledged.

Meanwhile, Central Regional Minister Eduamoah Ekow Panyin Okyere revealed plans to establish a free zone in the region to attract investment beyond the capital and stimulate balanced national development.