President John Dramani Mahama made a grand appearance at the national launch of the Black Star Experience in Accra on Thursday, May 1, 2025.
Accompanied by his children, Farida Mahama and Shahid Mahama, the President arrived at the Freedom and Justice Monument at Black Star Square in a bulletproof Toyota Land Cruiser LC300 Extreme Edition, a gift from his brother, Ibrahim Mahama.
The high-profile event drew several notable figures from the creative arts, entertainment, and tourism sectors, including Kumawood stars Michael Afranie, Abrobe, Adanko, Nana Yeboah, and Kala Kumasi.
Also in attendance were Abeiku Santana, Deputy CEO of the Ghana Tourism Authority; Abla Dzifa Gomashie, Minister for Tourism, Culture, and Creative Arts; Rex Omar, presidential staffer for the Black Star Experience; and popular YouTuber Wode Waya.
Upon arrival, Mahama instructed his children to sit just behind him as he took his designated seat. The national anthem played before the ceremony officially began.
Later in the evening, Farida and Shahid were seen enjoying a light-hearted moment, nodding along to a high-energy performance by award-winning gospel artist Nacee, who entertained guests with a live band.
This marked one of the few recent public appearances by Mahama with his children since his return to office following his 2024 election victory.
The former president has consistently demonstrated a strong bond with his children at public events. Just weeks earlier, they were present at the 68th Independence Day celebration and joined him and First Lady Lordina Mahama on the dancefloor during a presidential dinner.
What Is the Black Star Experience?
The Black Star Experience is a flagship initiative under the Mahama-led NDC government, aimed at reviving Ghana’s tourism, culture, and creative arts sectors. The year-round program celebrates Ghanaian identity, promotes diaspora engagement, creates jobs, and seeks to position Ghana as the gateway to Africa for global travelers and creatives.
It includes major festivals, performances, exhibitions, and educational activities across the country.
