EXECUTIVE SUMMARY REPORT

Engagement with the Parliamentary Select Committee on Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts

Parliament House, Accra
19th March 2026

The National Federation of Masqueraders and Fancy Dress of Ghana engaged the Parliamentary Select Committee on Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts at Parliament House in a strategic meeting aimed at aligning the Federation’s vision with national development priorities and strengthening institutional collaboration.

The Federation was represented by the Consultant, the Vice President, the General Secretary, members of the National Executive, and Patrons. The session commenced with formal introductions of all members present.

The Consultant, Dr. Benjamin Arhin, presented the Federation’s strategic positioning, highlighting it as a national coordinating body, a data driven institution, a youth and job creation platform, a tourism growth partner, and a custodian of Ghana’s cultural heritage. The presentation underscored the Federation’s role in organizing the sector, promoting cultural preservation, and contributing to the growth of Ghana’s creative economy.

The Committee engaged the Federation on key issues, particularly the proposed establishment of a national carnival and its potential impact on Ghana’s cultural heritage. The Federation clarified that the carnival initiative is intended to provide a structured platform to showcase and organize indigenous masquerade arts, while preserving authenticity and ensuring that foreign influences do not override Ghanaian cultural identity.

The Committee further requested the Federation to outline areas where Parliamentary and Government support would be required. In response, the Federation identified key priorities including the integration of its vision into national cultural and tourism policy, the establishment of cultural hubs to promote and preserve masquerade and related arts, the development of youth training programmes to create employment opportunities, and Government support for international representation in response to growing global invitations.

The meeting was cut short due to an emergency call requiring the Committee to reconvene at the Parliamentary Chamber. Despite this, the Committee expressed strong appreciation for the Federation’s vision and its potential national impact. The Committee assured the Federation of its support and commitment to advocating for the necessary Government assistance to advance its objectives.

The engagement represents a significant step toward national recognition and institutional collaboration, positioning the Federation as a key stakeholder in Ghana’s cultural, tourism, and creative arts development.

By
Dod Foli
Director of Administration