The National Arts Council of South Africa (NAC) has struck a historic deal with Ghana’s Black Star Experience (BSE), cementing a partnership that promises to boost cultural and creative ties between the two African powerhouses.
The official signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) will take place on Thursday, August 28 2025. This will be when NAC’s interim CEO, Lebogang Mogoera, hosts Ghanaian Presidential staffer and BSE coordinator, Rex Owusu Marfo, in Johannesburg.
Deepening collaboration in arts
The agreement is aimed at deepening collaboration in areas such as cultural exchange programmes, heritage preservation, arts education, artist residencies, training, and joint research initiatives.
Mogoera described the partnership as a game-changer for the continent’s creative industries.
“This partnership represents a significant milestone. Two African giants join hands to advance the development of the arts and culture sectors in both nations. It will unlock new opportunities for artists. Also broaden cultural exchange, and strengthen collaboration across the continent,” he said.
Echoing his words, NAC Council Chairperson Eugene Botha stressed that the collaboration would expand opportunities for artists across regions.
“This partnership marks the beginning of a new era. It inspires us to lead with purpose. And to collaborate more effectively for the mutual benefit of both countries,” said Botha.
Pushing boundaries of African arts
From Ghana’s side, Marfo emphasised the importance of such initiatives in pushing the boundaries of African arts.
“I am confident this agreement will open new doors of cooperation. Collaborations like this are paramount to the success of artistic expression and the growth of our cultural sectors,” he said.
The Black Star Experience is based in the Ghanaian Presidency. It is dedicated to showcasing the country’s cultural heritage to both locals and international visitors. Meanwhile, the NAC remains South Africa’s largest arts and culture funding agency. It supports disciplines from dance and music to theatre, craft, literature, and visual arts.
