Accra, Ghana – Ghana has scored a major diplomatic and cultural victory on the continental stage as Hon. Abla Dzifa Gomashie, Minister for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, has been unanimously elected Chairperson of the African Union’s Specialized Technical Committee (STC) on Youth, Sports and Culture. She will serve a two-year term, steering policy direction and coordinating ministers across Africa in these vital sectors.
The announcement was formally conveyed during a courtesy engagement by Mr. Jacob Atule Adongo, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the National Youth Authority (NYA) in charge of Finance and Administration, who represented Ghana at the AU meeting. Mr. Adongo revealed that nearly 20 ministers were present when Gomashie’s name was endorsed without dissent,a rare show of continental consensus.
“All the countries endorsed her as Chairperson for the next two years. She will be in charge of coordinating ministers responsible for youth, sports and culture across Africa and overseeing policy direction, programmes and reports adopted by Heads of State,” Mr. Adongo stated.
A Career of Cultural Leadership
Delegates from South Africa, Kenya, and other member states praised Gomashie’s extensive contributions to culture, film, youth development, and governance. Her documentaries and advocacy work were cited as evidence of her longstanding commitment to elevating African identity and empowering young people.
In her remarks, Hon. Gomashie expressed deep gratitude for the confidence reposed in her, acknowledging the collective efforts of Ghana’s delegation and allies within the AU framework. She underscored the weight of responsibility her new role carries, shaping continental policies on youth empowerment, sports development, and cultural promotion, while ensuring that recommendations from the committee are effectively implemented at the AU level.
Ghana’s Rising Influence
The Minister also commended Mr. Adongo for his leadership at the AU meeting, noting his experience in youth advocacy and disability rights prepared him well for chairing technical sessions. The Ghanaian delegation included Chief Director of the Ministry Mr. Joseph Kwesi Amoah, Special Assistant Dr. Richardson Kommey Fio, and Public Relations Officer Delassie Mabel Awuku.
Observers say Gomashie’s election strengthens Ghana’s influence within the African Union, positioning the country as a key voice in shaping the future of youth, sports, and cultural policy across the continent.
Her appointment is not only a personal triumph but also a symbolic milestone for Ghana’s cultural diplomacy, affirming the nation’s role as a beacon of creativity, resilience, and leadership in Africa’s collective journey.
Sankofaonline
