A high-level Chinese delegation recently toured the National Theatre in Accra as part of preparations for its long-awaited rehabilitation, following the government’s renewed commitment to restore the iconic cultural landmark.
In October, President John Dramani Mahama announced that the Chinese government had approved an additional 200 million Renminbi (approximately GH¢315.7 million) grant to support key development projects in Ghana, including the renovation of the National Theatre and the construction of the Aflao Market in the Volta Region. The funding was confirmed during bilateral discussions with Chinese President Xi Jinping.
In the 2026 Budget Statement, Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson confirmed that the government will rehabilitate the National Theatre in Accra next year and begin site acquisition and design for a second national theatre in Kumasi. The upgrades aim to enable the venue to host larger productions and sustain year‑round programming.
During the Chinese delegation’s visit, Hon. Abla Dzifa Gomashie, Minister for Tourism, Culture, and Creative Arts, said the refurbishment will align with the theatre’s new five-year strategic vision and acknowledged China’s long-standing support for Ghana’s cultural sector.
Mr. Li Yaohong, leader of the Chinese delegation, pledged continued cooperation to help restore the National Theatre to international standards. Acting Executive Director Mr. Henry Malm and Board Chair Mrs. Korkor Amarteifio emphasized the need for upgrades that meet modern technical and artistic requirements.
The visit, organized in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism, Culture, and Creative Arts, included senior officials from both the ministry and the theatre.
The delegation’s visit aligns with President Mahama’s broader economic reset agenda, which seeks to strengthen infrastructure and attract foreign support for key development projects.
The National Theatre of Ghana in Accra was originally built by the People’s Republic of China as a gift under a technical cooperation agreement signed in July 1989. Construction began on March 8, 1990, and the building was completed on December 16, 1992, with its official handover and opening on December 30, 1992. Designed by Chinese architects Cheng Taining and Ye Xianghan, the theatre remains one of Accra’s most iconic cultural landmarks.
