A statement made by Baba Sadiq during Joy FM’s Manifesto Debate on Creative Economy held on September 14, 2024, has stoked controversy. 

The Parliamentary Candidate for Okaikoi Central Constituency, attributed the origin of the December in GH initiative to Live FM. He noted that the initiative by the NPP government isn’t a novelty.

While the Chief Executive of the Ghana Tourism Authority, Akwasi Agyeman intimated that the December in GH project was launched in August 2019, Baba Sadiq replied that its origin predates the date cited by the GTA boss.

“Live FM already stated December in GH in 2016,” Baba Sadiq said.

This has generated a debate on social media inviting people like ImageBureau team lead, George Quaye, and former Live FM presenters KOD and Mike Cooke, to add their voices to the matter. 

KOD who was present at Joy FM’s Manifesto Debate on Creative Economy, later posted on Facebook: “For clarity, DECEMBER IN GHANA was a Live FM initiative in 2013.”

Mike Cooke’s account 

For those interested in the facts, the concept of “December in Ghana” was initiated by Vibe FM and Akwaaba UK as far back as 1998. 

Radical Dee of Akwaaba UK and I leveraged Vibe FM’s December Carnival and events to promote these festivities to the diaspora. Many can attest to Vibe FM’s Champagne Parties, All White and All Black Parties at Boomerang, and the establishment of Monarch, Britannia, and Ghana Tours in our travel market.

Akwaaba has hosted notable figures like Tim Westwood at December in Ghana parties, alongside All Star Steel Bands and the Kings and Queens of Calypso gracing Accra’s December Carnivals. 

This momentum led to the formation of a committee by former Tourism Minister Jake Obetsebi Lamptey, which included myself and the late Ferdinand Ayim, to strategize on attracting the diaspora market when President Kufuor came into power.

During the Rawlings regime, Panafest and Emancipation were instituted but were losing their appeal due to lack of proper funding. 

This is where the idea of The Joseph Project was conceived, aiming to use the 400th anniversary of the end of slavery as a clarion call. 

The Joseph Project sought to reconnect the African diaspora with their roots, fostering a sense of identity and belonging. It included cultural events, historical tours, and educational programs that highlighted Ghana’s role in the transatlantic slave trade and its rich cultural heritage.

What we now know as the Year of Return is essentially a rebranded concept of The Joseph Project. The Year of Return in 2019 marked a significant milestone, attracting thousands of visitors from the diaspora, boosting tourism, and generating substantial economic benefits for Ghana. 

It also sparked a renewed interest in Ghanaian culture and history, leading to increased investments in the tourism sector and the creation of new business opportunities.

Credit is due to Hon-Catherine Abelema Afeku and @akwasi agyeman  for its implementation. Their efforts ensured that the initiative was well-publicized and effectively executed, resulting in a successful campaign that has had a lasting impact on Ghana’s tourism industry.

In conclusion, both governments have made significant contributions to our current success, and we can only hope to build on these achievements.

George Quaye believes the NPP deserves credit for giving the initiative life 

December in GH: What it was vs what it is. 

Before Reggie Rockstone, there was twi rap in GH. Reggie is called the GrandPapa - The Father and Founder of Hiplife because he’s the one that branded it. He’s the one that gave it life. He’s the one that gave it an identity. He is the one that made it relevant! 

Only a fool would say there were no activities in Ghana around December before 2019. 

Indeed history would not forgive us if we ignored the efforts of the folk at Akwaaba UK, Live FM, Vibe FM, etc. 

But the same history would also laugh at us if we failed to admit the fact that most, if not all these events died including my favourite Ghana Rocks Concert managed by Charterhouse! 

With the “demise” of these events and the shutting down of many popular clubs back in the day; Aphro, Boom, etc, December in Ghana somewhat became a month often characterized by a relative calmness, lacking the vibrant energy and festive atmosphere that has since become synonymous with the month. 

While the holiday season traditionally brought some level of activity, it was not the bustling party destination it is today. Many Ghanaians would spend this time with family, reflecting on the year gone by and preparing for the new one ahead. 

Yes, there were pockets of events driven mainly by private planners with no Government support, endorsement or backing. But these were nothing compared to what we have today. 

The turning point came with the introduction of the “Year of Return” initiative in 2019, which marked the 400th anniversary of the arrival of the first enslaved Africans in the Americas. This initiative was a call to the African diaspora to return to their roots and coincided with a broader push to celebrate Ghana’s rich culture, heritage, and history. 

The “Year of Return” not only encouraged Ghanaians abroad to reconnect with their homeland but also attracted tourists from around the world, eager to partake in a unique cultural experience.

Under the leadership of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), a series of deliberate and strategic activities were launched to amplify December in Ghana as a party destination. The call for events, the launch of December in GH as an activity under the arts, the intentional sponsorship of events, the endorsement of events, the amplification of events, etc. These initiatives which had never happened in our history not only showcased local talent but also brought international artists to Ghana, enhancing the festive atmosphere and drawing in crowds from across the globe. It is not by accident that global brands like Afronation and the Global Citizens events decided to dock in GH. 

The marketing of December as a vibrant party month was further bolstered by social media, where influencers and travelers shared their experiences, creating a buzz that resonated far beyond Ghana’s borders. Thanks to all our bloggers, media houses and brands like Blacvolta Network, Wodemaya, etc. 

The combination of cultural events, concerts, and nightlife options made December an appealing time for both locals and tourists, making Ghana home to many from across the globe. 

In addition to the plethora of events now gracing the December calendar, a dedicated website has emerged to centralize information on December happenings in Ghana. The Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) has reported receiving entries for over 100 events and theatre shows scheduled to take place this December alone. 

This commitment to promoting the festive season has further solidified Ghana’s position as a premier destination for year-end celebrations.

As a result, December in Ghana has evolved into a thriving destination for those seeking to celebrate the holiday season in a lively and culturally rich environment. 

Deny it all you want for cheap political gain, but like it or not, the transformation has been remarkable; what was once a relatively subdued month has become a highlight on the global party calendar, attracting thousands eager to experience the warmth and vibrancy of Ghanaian culture.

In conclusion, the shift in December’s vibrancy in Ghana can be traced back to the strategic initiatives launched under the NPP, particularly the “Year of Return.” This transformation has not only elevated Ghana’s profile as a party destination but has also fostered a renewed sense of pride among Ghanaians, both at home and abroad, as they celebrate their heritage in a month that has become a symbol of joy and unity. 

Twa!

PS: No politics here. Just facts. Counter thoughts and opinions are welcome though.

Please note, insults will be deleted and abusers blocked. Thank you.