Ghana's Minister of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Abla Dzifa Gomashie, has confirmed a significant policy change. The government will prioritise completing existing cultural facilities across the nation. This decision means the proposed new National Theatre in Kumasi will not begin construction yet. Minister Gomashie announced this on Monday, August 10, 2026, during the Government Accountability Series.
The Minister's decision follows a comprehensive tour of cultural facilities in the Ashanti Region. She found it more prudent to finish ongoing projects before initiating new ones. Her proposal to Cabinet received approval. This approach aims to ensure that resources are effectively utilised on projects already underway. It also addresses the issue of uncompleted cultural projects inherited from past governments.
This strategic shift fits into Ghana's broader economic narrative of fiscal prudence and efficient resource management. The country often faces challenges with abandoned or stalled infrastructure projects. Prioritising completion over new starts can save public funds and deliver tangible assets to communities faster. This move also reflects a commitment to accountability in public spending. It ensures that investments in the creative arts sector yield their intended benefits.
Minister Abla Dzifa Gomashie stated, "I took a tour of Ashanti Region’s theatre and centre for national culture spaces. I have suggested to Cabinet that instead of starting a new one, we focus on finishing what has been started. Cabinet is in approval of that suggestion." She added that this approach would be implemented. A new project would only commence if an opportunity arises after existing ones are completed. This statement clarifies the government's immediate focus for cultural infrastructure development.
This decision will likely influence future government spending on cultural projects. It signals a move towards consolidating existing investments rather than expanding new commitments. Stakeholders in the creative arts and construction sectors will closely monitor the progress of these revitalised projects. The public, particularly in Kumasi, will watch for updates on the eventual commencement of their promised National Theatre. This policy could set a precedent for how other sectors manage their infrastructure development.
The Minister's comments came shortly after Kumasi-based broadcaster Austine Woode raised concerns. He questioned the lack of progress on the proposed National Theatre in Kumasi. This theatre was a promise in the National Democratic Congress (NDC) manifesto for the 2024 elections. Woode expressed disappointment during Joy FM’s Showbiz Roundtable on Saturday, August 8, 2026. He highlighted the absence of discussions regarding land acquisition for the project. The Centre for National Culture in Kumasi, known as Dwabrem, has long been slated for renovation. The previous government also laid a foundation for an amphitheatre in Kumasi, which remains unfinished. These existing projects underscore the Minister's rationale for prioritising completion.