Tourism minister, Abla Dzifa Gomashie, during a visit to Agya Koo Nimo
The Minister for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Hon. Abla Dzifa Gomashie, has paid a courtesy visit to celebrated Ghanaian highlife musician Agya Koo Nimo at his residence in Kumasi.
The visit forms part of President John Dramani Mahama’s broader commitment to ensure the welfare and dignity of elderly citizens, particularly those who have made significant contributions to Ghana’s cultural and creative heritage.
Speaking during the visit, Hon. Gomashie acknowledged Agya Koo Nimo’s invaluable role in shaping Ghana’s musical identity and reaffirmed the government’s pledge to support ageing creatives.
“This is not just a symbolic visit; it is a statement of care, recognition, and responsibility,” she said.
In a heartfelt address during the visit, Hon. Gomashie recalled President Mahama’s call to action at the launch of the Black Star Experience, where he asked, “Why wait until our legends are gone before we celebrate them?”
She emphasised that those words have since guided her and her team, compelling them to act swiftly to honour living legends.
“We do not know the hour of our birth, nor the moment we depart this life,” the minister said. “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 felt only proper that we come here today.”
She described Agya Koo Nimo as a revered “chief in the realm of Ghanaian culture” and presented him with a hamper, a modest token of appreciation, and an additional envelope to support the musicians who performed in his honour.
In response, Agya Koo Nimo expressed deep gratitude to President Mahama and the Ministry for the recognition.
“This is not just for me; it is for all musicians,” he remarked, calling on the government to establish a national museum dedicated to the creative arts, where the works of musicians and other creatives could be preserved for posterity and serve as a learning resource for future generations.
He further proposed that Ghanaian music be played and showcased at tourist sites across the country to enrich the visitor experience and promote local artistry.
Gomashie acknowledged the underappreciation creatives often face, noting:
“When a footballer scores, headlines follow. But creatives often give so much with little recognition. That must change, and it starts now,” she added.
According to Hon. Gomashie, this visit is only the beginning of a broader effort to elevate the voices and contributions of Ghanaian legends.
The minister was accompanied by her Deputy, Yussif Issaka Jajah; Divine Kwame Owusu Ansah, Director for Culture and Creative Arts at the Ministry; and other key members of her team.
They were warmly received by the Ashanti Regional Minister, the Ashanti Regional Director of the Ghana Tourism Authority, and other support staff.
