Creative industry stakeholder and event organiser Robert Klah has called for decisive and effective execution of the Black Star Experience, stressing that while expectations are high, stakeholders are most interested in seeing tangible action rather than prolonged planning.
Speaking in an interview with Kwame Dadzie on Tuesday, January 20, Klah acknowledged that significant preparatory work has already taken place behind the scenes. According to him, industry players are aware that stakeholder engagements have been held and branding elements for the initiative have been developed.
“In terms of the underground work, yes, we know it’s been done,” he said, noting that early groundwork has created anticipation within the creative community.
One of the most encouraging aspects of the Black Star Experience, Klah pointed out, is the reported availability of budgetary support. He described the initiative as a flagship cultural programme designed to boost tourism while strengthening Ghana’s creative arts and cultural sectors.
Klah explained that the Black Star Experience is expected to go far beyond existing cultural activations such as December in GH, which has become a major draw for visitors in recent years. Unlike seasonal events, the new initiative is projected to run throughout the year.
“This is supposed to be a step or a notch higher than December in GH, and it’s supposed to cover every month in the year,” he said.
He added that the way the project has been presented publicly has further heightened expectations. According to Klah, the online description of the Black Star Experience already positions it as Ghana’s leading cultural and tourism initiative, naturally raising the bar for delivery.
“When you read the descriptions, you’re like, yeah, this is it,” he remarked.
Klah also highlighted the political significance of the project, noting that it is a manifesto promise, which makes its implementation even more critical. He said creatives, media practitioners and the general public are closely monitoring developments and will continue to use their platforms to demand accountability.
“The expectations are huge… we have the microphone constantly,” he stated, suggesting that the creative sector will not hesitate to speak up if progress stalls.
Despite the excitement surrounding the initiative, Klah emphasised that what stakeholders ultimately want is consistent and visible impact. He stressed that activities should be rolled out regularly and contribute meaningfully to the creative economy.
“We just want to see things happening month after month, contributing to the creative economy, because that is what has been promised,” he said.
In conclusion, Klah reaffirmed the creative sector’s willingness to support the Black Star Experience, while urging organisers to shift from plans to execution.
“We are wishing them all the best. We are throwing all our support. We just want to see action,” he added.
His comments reflect a broader sentiment within Ghana’s creative industry: optimism about the Black Star Experience, coupled with a strong demand for results that match the ambitious vision laid out for the initiative.
