The Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts has made it clear that it neither approved nor endorsed the recently conducted Karnival Kingdom Festival in Accra.
In a statement signed by Abla Dzifa Gomashie, the Minister of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, and released on May 7, the Ministry indicated that it had not received any correspondence, proposal, request for approval, or any official communication concerning the organisation of the event.
The Ministry stated that it was unaware of the processes through which the festival was purportedly approved to occur in Ghana.
“The Ministry further clarifies that it neither endorsed, sanctioned, nor authorised the staging of the event,” the statement emphasised.
This clarification comes in response to the increasing public discourse and concerns regarding activities related to the festival, especially after various materials associated with the event circulated extensively on social media, provoking criticism from certain segments of the public.
The Ministry acknowledged the concerns expressed by stakeholders regarding the nature and conduct of the festival, highlighting the necessity of following established regulatory procedures when organising public events in the country.
“As the Supervisory Public Institution for the Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts Sector, the Ministry recognises the importance of adhering to established regulatory procedures and institutional engagements in the organisation of public events, including festivals, in the country,” the statement further noted.
The Ministry also reminded organisers of tourism, cultural, entertainment, and recreational events to formally engage with the relevant state institutions and obtain the necessary approvals before staging such activities.
The controversy surrounding Karnival Kingdom Ghana escalated after the festival’s inaugural edition in Accra attracted significant attention on social media and within entertainment circles.
While numerous attendees commended the event for its lively fusion of carnival culture, music, nightlife, and themed experiences, certain religious organisations vehemently criticised elements of the celebration.
Statements from Catholic bishops urging investigations into specific activities associated with the festival intensified public discourse.
In spite of the criticism, organisers have recently revealed pre-sales for the 2027 edition of the event, encouraging patrons to secure their spots with a £50 deposit.
Karnival Kingdom 2027 is anticipated to showcase activities such as the Accra Carnival, jouvert celebrations, themed parties, excursions, and various entertainment experiences designed to appeal to both local and international audiences.
