Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has declared that the development of a 20,000-seat Ghana Trade Fair Convention Centre is progressing well and is set to transform the creative arts and tourism industries.
During a recent site visit, he conveyed his assurance that the facility will be completed and ready for inauguration by September 2025.
Referring to the initiative as a transformative project, Dr. Bawumia noted in a Facebook update on November 25 that the modern convention centre will become Ghana’s leading location for entertainment, conferences, exhibitions, and conventions.
He highlighted its capacity to enhance Ghana’s international attractiveness as a venue for significant events.
I was very impressed by the extent of work, and with firm assurances by the contractors to complete it in eight months, I look forward to commissioning this project in September, by the grace of God.
The Vice President emphasized the necessity for a facility of this scale, pointing out that the largest entertainment venue in Ghana presently holds fewer than 3,000 individuals.
He elaborated that this constraint has adversely affected the creative arts sector, leading to increased ticket prices and a decline in the demand for live performances.
When you look at Ghana today, the largest auditorium that people tend to pay to play in is less than 3,000. If an artist has to play in such a venue, they have to charge much higher prices to cover costs. This reduces demand and limits revenues, stifling growth in the sector.
The $200 million redevelopment initiative for the Trade Fair, which encompasses the convention center, is an integral component of Ghana’s wider strategy to upgrade its infrastructure and bolster essential industries.
Dr. Bawumia conveyed his confidence that this facility would stimulate economic growth, generate employment opportunities, and improve the international competitiveness of Ghana’s creative and tourism sectors.
If the project is executed as intended, the convention center will not only resolve persistent issues within the arts and entertainment sector but also offer a premier venue suitable for hosting global events.
