Robert Klah Calls for Action as Black Star Experience Faces High Expectations

Creative industry stakeholder and event organiser Robert Klah has called for decisive and visible implementation of the Black Star Experience, stressing that while expectations around the initiative are high, stakeholders are primarily interested in seeing concrete action.

Speaking in an interview with Kwame Dadzie, Klah acknowledged that significant preparatory work has already gone into the project, including consultations with key stakeholders and the development of branding and conceptual elements.

“In terms of the underground work, yes, we know it’s been done,” he said, noting that early-stage planning appears to be on course.

One of the most reassuring aspects of the initiative, according to Klah, is the confirmation that funding has been secured. He described the Black Star Experience as a flagship cultural programme with the potential to boost tourism and strengthen Ghana’s creative arts industry if executed effectively.

“For us, one of the most encouraging things is that there is a budget,” Klah stated, adding that the availability of resources raises expectations for delivery.

He explained that the Black Star Experience is designed to go beyond existing cultural activations such as December in GH, with programming expected to run consistently throughout the year.

“This is supposed to be a step or a notch higher than December in GH, and it’s supposed to cover every month in the year,” he said.

Klah also pointed to the initiative’s public presentation as Ghana’s leading cultural and tourism experience, noting that its online descriptions have further heightened anticipation within the creative community.

“When you read the descriptions, you’re like, yeah, this is it,” he remarked.

He stressed that the project carries added weight because it was a manifesto promise, making successful delivery crucial. According to him, creatives, media practitioners and the general public are closely monitoring developments and will continue to demand accountability.

“The expectations are huge… we have the microphone constantly,” Klah said, emphasizing the media’s role in keeping the spotlight on implementation.

Despite the optimism surrounding the initiative, Klah said stakeholders are less concerned about promises and more focused on outcomes.

“We just want to see things happening month after month, contributing to the creative economy, because that is what has been promised,” he noted.

He concluded by reaffirming the creative sector’s willingness to support the initiative, while urging organisers to move swiftly from planning to action.

“We are wishing them all the best. We are throwing all our support. We just want to see action.”