By Hafsa Obeng, GNA
Accra, May 8, GNA – The Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts (MoTCCA) has denied receiving any request or granting approval for the recent Karnival Kingdom Festival in Accra.
In a statement to the Ghana News Agency on Thursday, the Ministry said no proposal, request for approval, or official correspondence regarding the festival was submitted prior to its staging.
It said that the Ministry did not endorse, sanction, or authorise the event and was therefore unaware of the processes through which it was purportedly approved to take place in Ghana.
The clarification comes amid public concerns and discussions over activities linked to the festival, including the circulation of culturally unacceptable materials on social media.
The Ministry acknowledged the concerns raised by stakeholders and members of the public regarding the nature and conduct of the festival.
As the supervisory public institution for the tourism, culture and creative arts sector, it emphasised the importance of following regulatory procedures and official engagements in organising public events, including festivals.
The Ministry noted that organisers who seek to stage tourism, cultural, entertainment, or recreational events must formally engage the relevant state institutions and obtain all necessary approvals before proceeding.
It reaffirmed its commitment to preserving, promoting, and developing tourism and cultural activities that respect the country’s laws and uphold national values, cultural identity, and public decency.
The Ministry said that such measures are essential to maintaining Ghana’s reputation as a safe and culturally respectful destination.
GNA
Edited by Kenneth Sackey
Reporter: Hafsa Obeng
[email protected]