Alan Kyerematen to establish 'Creative Arts Development Fund' to empower talented creatives

The leader and presidential candidate of the Movement, Alan Kyerematen, for Change, has announced a groundbreaking initiative to transform Ghana's creative industry under his Great Transformational Plan (GTP). Central to this vision is the establishment of the Creative Arts Development Fund (CADF), aimed at providing financial and technical support to talented individuals to help them unlock their potential and contribute meaningfully to Ghana's economy.

Speaking on the policy, his running mate, Kwame Owusu Danso (KOD), emphasised the Fund's potential to empower aspiring creatives. "The Creative Arts Development Fund will make resources available to aspiring musicians, poets, comedians, and artisans so they can develop and promote their craft," he noted in an interview with JoyNews.

Reflecting on his own experience as a musician, KOD spoke passionately about the obstacles faced by young artists, noting that with financial backing, they could avoid the challenges he and others encountered early in their careers. He added that the Fund would enable creatives to secure the capital they need to launch their careers while contributing to the economy as their work gains recognition both locally and internationally.

Alan Kyerematen has consistently emphasised the importance of fostering youth entrepreneurship as a cornerstone of his 10-point youth empowerment plan. According to him, as part of this agenda, the Creative Arts Development Fund will serve as a critical tool to support young creatives who have often faced barriers such as inadequate financing, limited infrastructure, and weak intellectual property protections. By addressing these challenges, Alan believes Ghana's creative industry can rival global giants like Nigeria, contributing significantly to the country's GDP.

Mr. Kyerematen has stated that the Fund will not only focus on financial assistance but also provide technical support and mentorship for creatives. "Through collaborations with industry experts, the Fund will ensure that beneficiaries are equipped with the skills and networks required to succeed. This is about creating opportunities for our youth to turn their talents into thriving businesses," Alan explained. "We are building a future through an Enterprise Economy where our artists, filmmakers, and musicians are celebrated globally, not just for their talent but for their economic impact."

A critical component of the Fund's objectives will be revitalising Ghana's struggling film industry. Alan Kyerematen has highlighted the potential of cinema as a tool for economic growth and cultural preservation. According to him, by investing in local filmmakers and providing infrastructure for production, the Creative Arts Development Fund aims to position Ghana as a hub for high-quality African content capable of competing on the global stage.

Alan also recognises the role of the creative industry in preserving Ghana's cultural heritage. The GTP envisions a thriving arts sector that bridges generational gaps by promoting a sense of national pride and identity. The Creative Arts Development Fund, he noted, would enable younger Ghanaians to connect with their roots while sharing Ghanaian culture with the world through music, art, comedy, poetry and film.

To ensure sustainability, the Fund will be complemented by legal and policy reforms under the GTP. These include stronger intellectual property protections and incentives for international collaborations, giving Ghanaian artists the tools to safeguard their work and access global markets. "Our creative talents are among the best in the world, and with the right support, they can lead the way in shaping Africa's cultural narrative," Alan has stated.

Alan Kyerematen has called on Ghana's youth, especially those in the creative industry, to rally behind his vision of transformation. "This fund is not just about financial support; it's about giving our youth the opportunity to realise their dreams and make meaningful contributions to our economy," he affirmed. With the Creative Arts Development Fund, Ghana's creative sector stands on the brink of a golden era, poised to inspire the world and transform lives at home.