Abla Dzifa Gomashie highlights economic benefits of December in GH

Abla Dzifa Gomashie, the Minister for Tourism, Arts and Culture, has officially launched the 2026 edition of "December in GH," emphasizing that the economic impact of the festive season is more significant than the terminology used to describe it. Speaking at the launch event, the Minister addressed the ongoing public debate regarding whether the period should be referred to as "Detty December" or "December in GH." She argued that the focus should remain on the season's capacity to drive growth for local businesses and generate employment opportunities across the country through tourism and creative arts. The Minister noted that the true value of the festivities lies in the sustainable economic opportunities they create for Ghanaians. According to Gomashie, the benefits of the season extend far beyond the hospitality sector, reaching content creators, artisans, and small-scale entrepreneurs. By positioning Ghana as a primary destination for the African diaspora and Ghanaians living abroad, the initiative seeks to promote cultural exchange while simultaneously attracting foreign investment. She urged stakeholders to prioritize creating value that directly improves the livelihoods of local citizens. In addition to the standard calendar of events, the Minister announced the upcoming African Festival of Arts, Culture and Creativity (A-FESTA), which is expected to further bolster the country's cultural profile. However, she also called for a concerted effort to improve visitor experiences nationwide to ensure that the tourism sector remains competitive and attractive to international travelers. Gomashie concluded by reaffirming the government’s commitment to innovation within the creative arts space, stressing that the ultimate goal is to foster a festive environment that delivers long-term economic dividends for all sectors of the economy.