President John Dramani Mahama has stated that the government’s flagship tourism initiative, the Blackstar Experience, aims to position Ghana as the gateway to Africa for the global diaspora.

President John Dramani Mahama explained that the Blackstar Experience, as outlined in the 2024 manifesto of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), will offer a variety of cultural, historic, and creative arts experiences, in partnership with the private sector, diplomatic missions, and relevant government agencies. Speaking during his first State of the Nation Address on Thursday, February 27, 2025, he highlighted that the initiative would include activities such as concert party competitions, film events, and street carnivals, all designed to establish it as a uniquely Ghanaian tourism brand.

“The Pan African Month will be a part of the Blackstar Experience, featuring street carnivals, a film week, a fashion festival, a food fair, theatrical and drama performances, concert party competitions, and monthly domestic tourism destinations,” President Mahama said. He also emphasized plans to promote Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) tourism to diversify Ghana’s tourism offerings.

In his address, President Mahama also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to transforming Osu Castle into a more appealing tourist destination.

President Mahama stressed, “We will transform Osu Castle, the former seat of government, and its surrounding area into a key tourist attraction. The development will include a pedestrian precinct with arts and crafts markets, as well as jewelry and gold markets. This 22-acre site will be developed into a premier tourism destination.”

He also underscored that tourism, culture, and creative arts are essential components of Ghana’s national development strategy, playing a significant role in job creation, fostering cultural exchange, and driving economic growth.

While acknowledging the ministry’s recent transformative initiatives to establish Ghana as a premier global destination, President Mahama also outlined additional efforts aimed at leveraging the country’s rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and dynamic creative sector. He further emphasized that his government would strategically promote meetings, conferences, and exhibitions tourism to diversify Ghana’s tourism offerings.

“Ghana’s peaceful and democratic environment makes us an appealing hub for international summits, business conventions, and high-profile gatherings. We must capitalize on this unique advantage to maximize our benefits and strengthen our reputation as the gateway to Africa.”