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| Creative Arts Federation of Ghana (CAFOG) |
The National Theatre’s VIP Lounge bore witness to a historic moment in Ghana’s creative landscape as the Creative Arts Federation of Ghana (CAFOG) was officially inaugurated, marking a significant turning point in the creative sector’s decades-long quest for unity, structure, and recognition.
The event brought together representatives from the seven key domains of the creative arts—film, music, fashion, visual arts, literary arts, performing arts, and media—alongside government officials, stakeholders, and distinguished guests, including Henry Malm, Director of the National Theatre.
In an atmosphere filled with reverence and anticipation, the inauguration began with an earnest prayer, seeking divine guidance and blessing for the journey ahead. “May today mark a turnaround in Creative Arts,” the prayer declared. “May the lives of creative entrepreneurs never be the same.”
A Long-Awaited Answer to Division
In his keynote address, President of the Federation, Richard Yaw Boateng, emphasized the historical significance of the inauguration. “Today, over a five-year journey of putting ourselves together, we’ve been able to simplify our numerous numbers—from over 150 associations to a 17-member board,” he said. “The Creative Arts Federation of Ghana is our mission to build an all-inclusive, self-reliant, and robust creative industry.”
He directly addressed the long-standing perception that the industry is fragmented. “Anytime we need help from government, they say we are divided. Today, I want to tell government—we are no more divided. We are one.”
The Federation, legally registered under Ghana’s Companies Act, is built around seven recognized domains: Film, Music, Fashion, Performing Arts, Visual Arts, Literary Arts, and Media.
Formed on May 13, 2020, CAFOG now operates with a 17-member board—comprising elected executives and two representatives from each of the seven domains—serving as a voice and administrative backbone for the industry.
“Every representative on this board is not here as an individual but as a delegate of an existing association, guild, or union,” he emphasized. “This structure ensures that information, support, and governance cascade effectively to every corner of the creative sector.”
Building with Like Minds
The Federation’s formation, he noted, was achieved using a “top-down” approach. “We were once trying to unite from the bottom up—but that failed. Pride, ego, and fragmented loyalties got in the way,” he said. “So we started with like-minded leaders. Unity doesn’t start with all. Even the United States started with three states—so did the African Union.”
He quoted the Bible’s Genesis 11:6: “The people is one—and nothing they propose to do will be impossible for them.” He continued, “With one voice, one mission, and one umbrella, we are creating a structure government can deal with.”
A Federation with Structure
Each domain within the Federation is supported by a Domain Committee, made up of representatives from all recognized associations, guilds, and unions within that sector. These committees elect their own representatives to the national board. “This makes sure that no association feels left out,” he assured. “Those who haven’t yet joined will be reached by the domain representatives and welcomed in.”
From Chaos to Coordination
Guest of Honour, Mr. Henry Malm, lauded the milestone and the organisational strength it signifies: “Vision and passion without direction is chaos. What I’ve seen today is a clear move towards direction. You do not lack the human resources. What remains is to organize, sustain, and grow.”
He highlighted the federation’s potential to generate massive economic and social returns through job creation, investment attraction, and cultural diplomacy. “This isn’t just a win for the industry, it’s a win for Ghana,” he added.
A Journey of Resilience and Purpose
Other speakers shared personal anecdotes tracing the years of dedication and sometimes bruising efforts it took to bring CAFOG to life. From early beginnings in scattered associations to the intense debates that birthed the federation, there was a clear message: this achievement came at a cost—and it must be safeguarded.
“From the days of being called divided to this moment of unity, we have moved mountains,” said David Dontoh, Vice President of the federation. “Let no one feel left out. If your association is not yet represented, come. Join the network. There’s room at the table,” he added.
A Call for Collective Ownership
At the heart of the federation’s leadership’s message was a plea for inclusiveness, transparency, and service: “This is not about individual fame or ego. This is about service—to the industry, to the country, and to the future.”
All registered creative organizations—be they new, existing, or emerging—are encouraged to affiliate with the federation through their domain committees, ensuring full representation and participation.
Looking Forward
As the applause echoed through the auditorium and guests exchanged greetings, one sentiment stood clear: the inauguration of the Creative Arts Federation is not just the end of a struggle—it is the beginning of a renaissance. With unity now forged and a governance model in place, the Creative Arts Federation of Ghana is poised to champion policies, streamline communication, attract investment, and elevate Ghana’s creative economy onto the global stage.
The Governing Board Includes:
Richard Yaw Boateng – President
David Dontoh – Vice President
Lilian Sally Addo – Secretary General
Film Domain – Bill Asamoah and Kafui Dzivenu
Music Domain – Bessa Simon and Deborah Freeman (Deputy Secretary General)
Fashion Domain – Mohammed Munkaila Omar and Joana Eshun Mensah
Performing Arts Domain – Fred Amugi and George Quaye
Visual Arts Domain – Prince Kojo-Hilton and Joshua Sena Fianu
Literal Arts Domain – Raphael Antwi and Michael Kelly Agbesi
Media Domain – Ameyaw Debrah and Mikki Osei Berko
