Anne-Sophie Avé, former France Ambassador to Ghana, has recommended that Ghana consider granting diplomatic passports to some of its most prominent artists. The proposal aims to harness the potential of cultural diplomacy and further elevate the country’s soft power on the global stage. Artists such as Sarkodie, Stonebwoy, Black Sherif, Shatta Wale, R2Bees, and King Promise have risen to international prominence, and Avé believes that providing them with diplomatic status could benefit both Ghana and its burgeoning music industry.
Cultural diplomacy is the practice of leveraging culture and the arts to build bridges between nations, promote understanding, and enhance diplomatic relations. By exporting their unique musical talents and creativity, Ghanaian artists have already been playing a significant role in projecting the country’s cultural identity beyond its borders. Their music, with its distinct blend of traditional African sounds and contemporary genres, has earned them a massive following across Africa and the world.
Avé emphasizes that granting diplomatic passports to these artists can elevate their role as cultural ambassadors, enabling them to represent Ghana at international events, conferences, and concerts. Through their music, they can foster connections with other nations, break down barriers, and create a positive image of Ghana on the global stage.
Beyond its cultural significance, this proposal also holds potential economic benefits. The artists named are among the top earners in Ghana’s entertainment industry and have significantly contributed to the country’s economy through music sales, concerts, and endorsements. By providing them with diplomatic passports, they could gain easier access to foreign markets, making it simpler to tour and perform internationally. This could enhance their earning potential and create new revenue streams for the nation.
Anne-Sophie Avé’s proposal to grant diplomatic passports to Ghanaian artists like Sarkodie, Stonebwoy, Black Sherif, Shatta Wale, R2Bees, and King Promise holds the potential to bolster Ghana’s cultural diplomacy efforts and boost its global image. These artists have already made a significant impact through their music, capturing the hearts of millions worldwide. Bestowing them with diplomatic status would further empower them to act as cultural ambassadors, fostering connections and spreading Ghana’s rich cultural heritage far and wide. Moreover, such a move could yield economic benefits by attracting investment and tourism to the nation.
