Tourism
From The Report: Ghana 2018
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Ghana’s new administration is looking to further capitalise on tourism as a source of foreign exchange. The 2017 budget set specific goals for the sector, including ensuring sustainable tourism development, increasing participation in international conferences and developing standards for new tourism enterprises. With a number of promotion initiatives under way, the sector is making a dedicated push to turn the country into a leisure tourism destination. At the same time, ongoing projects, including airports and road upgrades, are expected to generate a further boost.

This chapter contains an interview with Akwasi Agyeman, CEO, Ghana Tourism Authority.

Articles from this Chapter

Overview

Transitioning to travel: Political stability, infrastructure improvements and easing of visa restrictions underpin continued growth
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With another peaceful transition of power under its belt, Ghana began 2017 with a clear reminder that it is a stable, safe destination for international travellers. However, despite its tropical climate, historical sites and colourful festivals, the country has remained primarily a hub for businesses and consultants, whose arrival numbers have decreased during the country’s economic slowdown since 2014. Particularly given that any increase in international oil prices in the near future…

Interview

Virtuous circle: Akwasi Agyeman, Acting CEO, Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA), on attracting a wider range of tourists
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Interview: Akwasi Agyeman What can be done to increase the economic impact of tourism across the country? AKWASI AGYEMAN: One of the main constraints to the expansion of the economic impact of tourism in Ghana is the availability of offers. In this regard, Ghana is focusing on three keys areas: promoting investments, capacity building and marketing. In terms of promoting investments, more hotels need to be built and more attractions need to be developed. Capacity building translates into the goal…

Analysis

Local promotion: Marketing efforts are helping show the strength and viability of the sector
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As Ghana seeks to highlight itself as a compelling alternative to more developed African tourism markets – Kenya and South Africa, for example – positioning the country as a unique and worthwhile destination still requires some marketing work. As Leeford Quarshie, general manager of La Villa Boutique Hotel, told OBG, “There is the need to brand and position this country to the outside world, through travel shows, trade fairs or publications. A lot of people still think that Africa is…