Madam Abla Dzifa Gomashie, the Minister of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, has visited legendary highlife musician Agya Koo Nimo in Kumasi, re-affirming government’s commitment to honouring Ghana’s cultural trailblazers.
The visit aligns with President John Dramani Mahama’s commitment to safeguarding the welfare and dignity of elderly citizens, particularly those who have significantly contributed to the nation’s creative legacy.
Madam Gomashie praised Agya Koo Nimo’s role in shaping Ghana’s musical heritage and reaffirmed the Government’s support for ageing creatives.
“This is not just a symbolic visit, it is a statement of care, recognition, and responsibility,” she said during the visit on Wednesday.
“We do not know the hour of our birth, nor the moment we depart this life. Therefore, while we are still planning a formal celebration to honour the trailblazers and elders in the sector -those on whose shoulders we stand – it feels only proper that we come here today.”
Describing the veteran musician as a “revered chief” in Ghana’s cultural landscape, she presented him with a hamper and an undisclosed amount of money to support musicians who performed in his honour.
Addressing the broader issue of underappreciation, Madam Gomashie remarked: “When a footballer scores, headlines follow. But creatives often give so much with little recognition. That must change, and it starts now.”
The visits marked the beginning of a sustained effort to amplify the contributions of Ghanaian cultural legends, she noted.
In response, Agya Koo Nimo expressed profound gratitude to President Mahama and the Ministry for the support, stating: “This is not just for me, it is for all musicians.”
He appealed for the establishment of a national museum for the creative arts, to preserve the works of Ghanaian artists.
The music legend proposed that Ghanaian music be featured at tourist sites to enhance visitor experience and promote local artistry.
Source: myghanadaily
