He observed that such thoughts undermined the significance and patronage of the festival and reminded Ghanaians that there was more to NAFAC than just music and dance.

Talking to Graphic Showbiz on preparations for this year’s festival scheduled for December 9 to December 16, 2022 in Cape Coast in the Central Region, Mr Fio said NAFAC was not only an exhibition of music and dance but an occasion for patrons to acquaint themselves with the enormous cultural benefits and international recognition the festival brings.

“The festival’s mission outweighs the entertaining value. It is the only festival that promotes Ghanaian culture by providing a platform for the various ethnic groups in the country to display their unique cultures,” he said.

Mr  Fio noted that the erroneous perception seems to have lingered because the stakeholders had not painstakingly communicated its global relevance over the years.

“The celebration of NAFAC also provides opportunities for reconciliation and social integration while promoting creativity and productivity in the arts and this goes a long way to market made-in-Ghana products. So we cannot look at the entertainment aspect only, but also forcefully relay the enormous benefits of the celebration.

“Let me add that the festival is also about consolidating the Ghanaian identity by transferring our rich cultural values and norms to the younger generation and promoting unity through our rich diversified ethnic traditions and cultures,” he noted.

This year’s edition of NAFAC is being organised by the National Commission on Culture under the auspices of the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture.

The festival will be held on the theme: "Reviving patriotism, peace and unity through cultural diversity for Sustainable Development," with several activities including a colloquium, regional exhibition days, a float with masqueraders, a pageant, a women and girls day and an International Friendship Night.

While urging everyone to support the celebration to be successful, Mr Commey Fio stressed that this year's festivities would be one-of-a-kind with new and exciting initiatives.