Renowned Ghanaian highlife musician Rex Omar has been appointed as a Presidential Staffer for the Black Star Experience by His Excellency John Dramani Mahama.
The Black Star Experience Initiative
Before assuming office, President Mahama outlined his vision for The Black Star Experience, a policy designed to revitalize Ghana’s tourism and creative arts sectors. In July 2024, he shared his commitment to the initiative, stating:
“I bring good news for the creative industry. Our primary focus will be on ‘The Black Experience,’ a policy aimed at revitalizing the tourism and creative arts sectors.”
This initiative includes several key programs:
1. Pan-African Month – Celebrating Africa’s cultural heritage and fostering unity among African nations.
2. Ghana Film Festival and Awards Month – Showcasing and honoring achievements in Ghana’s film industry.
3. Ghanaian Heritage and History Month – Highlighting Ghana’s rich cultural history and legacy.
4. Fashion and Food Month – Promoting Ghanaian fashion and cuisine on a national and international level.
5. Diasporan Month – Strengthening ties between Ghana and the diaspora, encouraging cultural and economic exchange.
Rex Omar’s Legacy and Contribution
Rex Omar, born Rex Owusu Marfo, is a legendary figure in Ghana’s music industry. He rose to fame in 1989 with his album Aware Pa, which featured the hit song Wodofo Ne Hwan? In 1992, he co-founded the Highlife Supergroup Nakorex with Nat Brew and Akosua Agyapong, blending their unique talents to celebrate highlife music. After the group disbanded, he pursued a successful solo career and performed alongside notable artists like Sony Achiba.
His contributions to the industry earned him a Kora Award nomination in 2004 and a Ghana Music Awards nomination for Artiste of the Year in 2005. He later served as Chairman of the Ghana Music Rights Organisation (GHAMRO), advocating for musicians’ rights and welfare.
A Strategic Appointment
Rex Omar’s appointment as Presidential Staffer for the Black Star Experience is seen as a strategic move to boost Ghana’s creative arts industry, tourism, and cultural heritage. With his deep understanding of music, arts, and culture, he is expected to play a key role in implementing President Mahama’s vision for the creative sector.
His new role presents an opportunity to elevate Ghana’s cultural presence globally, ensuring that The Black Star Experience becomes a landmark initiative for both local and international audiences.
