The Minister of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Ablah Dzifa Gomashie, has called for an end to the longstanding ridicule of Ghana’s theatre industry.
She has described the practice as not only “shameful” but also “self-destructive.”
Speaking on September 23, 2025, at the opening of the six-day Ghana Theatre Festival, the veteran actress and minister, who has experienced both the triumphs and struggles of Ghana’s performing arts, emphasised that theatre is far more than just acting on stage.
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She reflected on her days as a student at the University of Ghana, Legon, recalling how theatre students were mockingly labelled “Dondologists”, a dismissive term used to belittle their craft.
“It started way back when at the citadel of education, you called us Dondologists to ridicule who we are. Yet, in that same space, you celebrate colleagues worldwide while trampling on us. And that must stop, because you see, we only reflect who you are. If you mock us, you’re mocking yourselves,” she told the audience.
According to Dzifa Gomashie, this mindset is rooted in ignorance. She argued that those who belittle the art fail to recognise its true impact.
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Far from being “mere pretence,” she described theatre as a rigorous discipline that builds character, sharpens intellect, and nurtures talent across a wide range of professions.
“There is a comedian who is a dentist by profession. There are lawyers and poets who thrive in this space. So why mock an industry that could employ you after studying law, architecture or any other field?” she asked.
Gomashie also brought to light the sector’s economic weight, disclosing that in 2024 the creative industry was Ghana’s fourth-highest foreign exchange earner.
She said this demonstrates that arts are not a frivolous pursuit, but rather a massive driver of national development.
The minister also assured stakeholders that the government is actively reviewing outdated cultural policies to better align with contemporary realities.
“Our success is not in the individual but in our collective ability to increase revenue and safeguard the fortunes of this industry. This festival allows us to reflect on how far we’ve come and to forge ahead together,” she said.
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