The Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) has set its sights on a robust domestic tourism scene for the upcoming month of September with the official launch of the 2023 ‘Tourism Month’. This annual event seeks to promote and celebrate the vivacious tourism offerings of the nation.
This year’s Tourism Month aims to emphasise the significance of domestic tourism and its potential to bolster the country’s economy. The GTA, in collaboration with various stakeholders, is geared up to provide an unforgettable experience for both Ghanaians and visitors through its ‘Experience Ghana, Share Ghana campaign’.
Mark Okraku Mantey, Deputy Minister for Tourism, Arts, and Culture, enthusiastically endorsed the initiative during the launch event held at the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park in Accra on August 30, 2023.
He expressed his belief that Ghana’s tourism sector could become a leading contributor to the nation’s GDP. Mantey urged citizens to actively engage in domestic tourism, stressing, “It is good to know your environment because knowledge about your environment gives you power.”
Ekow Sampson, Deputy Chief Executive in charge of Operations at the GTA, underscored the educational and economic benefits of tourism. “Apart from the economic benefits, tourism teaches us about our cultural heritage and enables us as a country to present our unique cultural, historical, and environmental heritage to the international community,” he said.
Sampson also revealed that the GTA is working relentlessly to position Ghana as a premier tourism destination globally.
The calendar for this year’s Tourism Month is packed with a diverse range of activities spanning the country. Festivals like the Oguaa Fetu Afahye in Cape Coast, the Asogli Teza in Ho, the Kobine Festival in Lawra, the Kundum festival in Axim and the Odwira festival in Akropong are just a few of the anticipated highlights. Other events include the Paragliding Festival, the King of the Mountains Cycling Championship, and a Special Tour to complement the Paragliding Festival, all in Kwahu.
Mrs. Roberta Dawson-Amoah, Director of Marketing at the GTA, urged all Ghanaians to actively participate in the ‘Tourism Month’. She encouraged citizens to share their experiences and showcase the rich culture, attractions, and traditions of Ghana. “When you eat Ghana, let us know; when you put on Ghana, let’s have a feel of you, and when you go round visiting the attraction sites, share the sites and sounds of Ghana with all of us; that is what we mean by saying Experience Ghana, Share Ghana,” she emphasised.
The Tourism Month will be climaxed with the celebration of World Tourism Day on September 27. The national celebration will take place at Ada in Accra with activities planned for all 16 regions across the country.
Story by: Samuel Obeng Appah
