December in Ghana must deliver economic benefits beyond entertainment – Tourism Minister

The Minister for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Abla Dzifa Gomashie, has called for the annual December in Ghana festivities to deliver tangible economic benefits for Ghanaians beyond entertainment.

Speaking at the launch of December in Ghana 2026 on October 20, she said the celebrations must create jobs, support local businesses and provide sustainable livelihoods for people working in the tourism and creative industries.

“The true value of December in Ghana must be measured not only by the excitement of the events or the number of visitors it attracts, but also by the sustainable economic opportunities it creates for Ghanaians,” she said.

Madam Gomashie said the benefits should extend across the tourism and creative sectors, including content creators, booking agents, hoteliers, tour operators, food vendors, fashion designers, artisans, filmmakers, musicians and young entrepreneurs.

She added that the experiences offered to visitors and residents should also strengthen Ghana’s image internationally.

Local creatives urged to benefit

December in Ghana has become a major tourism attraction, with concerts, festivals and other events drawing visitors from across the world. Popularly known among young people as “Detty December”, the period is associated with entertainment, travel and celebrations.

However, the Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Tourism Authority, Maame Efua Houadjeto, says Ghanaian creatives must secure a greater share of the opportunities generated by the festivities.

She has appealed to event organisers to give local musicians and other creative professionals greater prominence in major programmes.

“At the heart of this year’s message is a clear ambition to carry Ghanaian talents further into the international market. Our musicians and creatives deserve opportunities that match their talents. They deserve stages that build their audience, partnerships that expand their reach and recognition that translate into lasting livelihoods,” she said.

Madam Houadjeto urged organisers to ensure Ghanaian performers make up a greater proportion of event line-ups.

“Let Ghanaian talents form the greater share of your performing line-ups,” she appealed.

Promoting Ghana to the world

This year’s December in Ghana celebration is being held under the theme, “Ghana Welcomes the World Home.”

The initiative forms part of the Black Star Experience, which seeks to promote Ghana’s culture, heritage, tourism and creative industries.

The calls by the two officials place local participation and economic opportunities at the centre of this year’s festivities, with an emphasis on ensuring that the benefits extend beyond visitor numbers and entertainment to Ghanaian businesses, workers and creatives.

Source: Nancy Koomson

Radio1 Online