2024 election: Mahama pledges dedicated TV Channel for Creative Arts Industry

The flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama, has announced an ambitious plan to establish a dedicated television channel for the creative arts industry, should he win the upcoming 2024 election.

Speaking at a policy dialogue with creative arts stakeholders at the AH Hotel in Accra on Friday, June 7, 2024, the former President underscored the importance of diversifying revenue streams for creatives beyond traditional ticket sales by leveraging television viewership.

Mahama detailed his vision for the new channel, which would be part of the digital terrestrial television network, emphasizing its potential to showcase a wide range of creative works and live events.

"We will acquire a special channel for the creative arts. It will be an events channel. And you can display all your work there. If you have a big show like Stonebwoy is performing, or Amandzeba is performing, or somebody is performing and you have a big show, or many of you are performing at a big show, we will have the technology to make that show payable," Mahama explained.

He added that although the channel would be on DTT, access to major performances would require viewers to pay electronically and receive a code to watch.

The former President pointed out that while creatives in other parts of the world are among the wealthiest individuals, this is not the case in Ghana.

"The creative arts sector is incredibly important and has the potential to generate millions of jobs. Many young people are brimming with talent but lack the opportunities to showcase it. By solidifying the foundation of the creative industry, we can create numerous opportunities for our youth," he remarked.

As anticipation builds for the NDC's manifesto launch, Mahama also outlined additional strategies aimed at elevating the creative industry if the party is given the mandate to govern once again.

The proposed initiatives reflect a broader commitment to supporting and enhancing the creative sector, ensuring it becomes a significant contributor to the economy and a source of employment for the youth.

The announcement has been met with enthusiasm from various stakeholders within the creative arts community, who view it as a significant step toward addressing long-standing challenges and fostering growth in the industry.