A high-level Chinese delegation has toured the National Theatre in Accra as part of preparations for its long-awaited rehabilitation, following recent government commitments to restore the iconic cultural venue.

President John Dramani Mahama announced in October that the Chinese government had approved an additional 200 million Renminbi (about GH¢315.7m) 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 talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping.

Consequently, in the 2026 Budget Statement, Finance Minister Dr Cassiel Ato Forson said government will rehabilitate the National Theatre in Accra next year and begin site acquisition and design for a second national theatre in Kumasi. He said the works will help the venue host larger productions and support year‑round programming.  

During the visit by the Chinese delegation, 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 longstanding 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 standard.

Acting Executive Director of the Theatre, Mr Henry Malm, and Board Chair Mrs Korkor Amarteifio also stressed the need for upgrades that reflect modern technical and artistic needs.

The visit was held in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, with senior officials from both the ministry and the theatre in attendance.

The Chinese delegation’s visit follows President Mahama’s broader economic reset agenda, which seeks to strengthen infrastructure and attract foreign support for development projects across Ghana.

The National Theatre of Ghana in Accra was built by the People’s Republic of China for Ghana as a gift under a technical cooperation agreement signed by both governments in July 1989.

Construction began on 8th March 1990 and the building was completed on 16th December 1992. It was officially handed over and opened on 30th December 1992. The theatre was designed by Chinese architects Cheng Taining and Ye Xianghan and is one of the landmark cultural buildings in Ghana’s capital.