Abla Dzifa Gomashie announces AFESTACC 2026 to host 3,000 participants

Minister for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Abla Dzifa Gomashie, has announced that Ghana will host the Africa Festival of Arts, Culture and Creatives (AFESTACC) in December 2026. The festival, which is being organised in collaboration with the African Union Development Agency (AUDA-NEPAD), is scheduled to take place from December 9 to December 12. The initiative marks a significant step in the government’s efforts to position Ghana as a primary hub for continental cultural celebration.

The event is expected to attract a significant audience, with organisers anticipating over 600 international participants and approximately 3,000 local attendees. By gathering creative professionals from across the continent, the festival aims to provide a platform for artists to showcase their work and for cultural practitioners to engage in high-level networking. This gathering is intended to foster a sense of shared African identity and celebrate the diverse heritage of the continent.

In her announcement, Gomashie called for strong support from corporate institutions and stakeholders within the creative industry to ensure the festival's success. She highlighted that AFESTACC 2026 presents a strategic opportunity to showcase Ghana’s cultural heritage on a global stage while simultaneously driving economic growth. The Minister noted that the tourism and creative sectors stand to benefit significantly from the influx of visitors and the international attention the festival will generate.

As Ghana begins preparations for the 2026 event, the festival is expected to serve as a catalyst for economic opportunities within the creative sector. By hosting AFESTACC, the Ministry aims to leave a lasting legacy that strengthens regional integration through the arts and culture. The government remains focused on leveraging such international partnerships to promote Ghana’s hospitality and creative talent to the world.