Mr Yamoah was speaking at a press briefing organized by the JCCMOs.

He indicated that all is set for the launch of the festival on August 19 at the Golden Tulip Hotel in Accra, assuring also that the launch will offer a snapshot of what the festival would entail when it kicks off next year.

In response to a question, Mr Yamoah refuted a suggestion that the Atuu Festival of Arts is in conflict with the Atuu programme on UTV, adding that the Atuu Festival is duly registered at the Registrar General’s Department. He noted that the word “Atuu” is a word that is common in various Ghanaian cultures hence nobody can claim a monopoly to it.

The Copyright Administrator, Ms Yaa Attafuah said the Atuu Festival of Arts is in response to the demand by the industry for our own festival and with the support of all and sundry in the arts and media, it will be a festival that has come to stay.

Other speakers like Rex Omar described the Atuu Festival as akin to international festivals like Midem which allows local and international musicians and industry players alike to network and exchange ideas while showcasing their talents.

Present at the meeting were members of the planning committee for the festival.

The Atuu Fest will be launched on August 19 with the celebrated artist, curator and lecturer Prof Ablade Glover as the keynote speaker.

Other dignitaries invited to the launch include Prof Attukwei Okai, Prof Esi Sutherland-Addy, Prof Kofi Anyidoho, Agya Koo Nimo and Alhaji Mohammed Gado.

The Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Catherine Abelema Afeku and Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Gloria Akuffo are also expected to attend.

There will be a drama sketch, poetry and musical performances by top notch artistes like Bisa K Dei and Rex Omar who will perform the theme song for the festival.