As we commemorate International Women’s Day (IWD) 2025 under the theme “Accelerate Action”, it is an opportune moment to reflect on the strides we have made towards gender equality in Ghana’s tourism sector while recognising the work still ahead. Women have long been the backbone of our tourism industry, yet for years, many of them operated in the shadows, their contributions undervalued. Today, that narrative is changing, but we must hasten our efforts to ensure greater representation of women at the decision-making table and in all aspects of economic empowerment.
The tourism landscape in Ghana is remarkably shaped by women. A sizable number of tour operators are women-led, and I am proud to note that the Executive Council of the Tour Operators Union of Ghana (TOUGHA) comprises more women than ever before. This is a testament to the strength, resilience and business acumen of Ghanaian women, who continue to drive innovation and growth in the sector.
At the public leadership level, Ghana has made historic progress by swearing in its first female Vice President, Prof. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang. Her presence at the highest levels of governance signals a shift towards greater inclusion and presents a beacon of hope for women aspiring to occupy leadership positions. Additionally, the appointment of Hon. Dzifa Gomashie as the Minister of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, alongside Mrs. Maame Efua Houadjeto as the new CEO of the Ghana Tourism Authority, reinforces the growing influence of women in the sector. Their leadership will undoubtedly shape policies that create more opportunities for women in tourism.
However, these milestones must not be the end of our journey toward gender equality but rather fuel our determination to accelerate progress. Women form a significant portion of Ghana’s tourism workforce, from tour operators to hospitality managers, artisans, and cultural entrepreneurs. Yet, when it comes to key decision-making roles, the numbers remain discouraging. Women must not only be participants in the industry but must also have a voice in shaping its policies, investments and strategic direction.
The theme “Accelerate Action” calls for more than just recognition; it demands tangible steps toward empowering women in every endeavour, including tourism.
Addressing Key Challenges
Access to Capital: One of the most significant barriers facing women in tourism is limited access to capital. Many women-led businesses struggle to secure funding due to systemic biases in financial institutions. We must push for gender-inclusive financial policies, create dedicated funding schemes for women entrepreneurs and ensure that women in tourism have the necessary resources to expand their businesses.
Closing the Pay Gap: Despite the increasing presence of women in the tourism workforce, wage disparities remain a pressing issue. Women often earn significantly less than their male counterparts, even in leadership roles. Addressing this imbalance requires comprehensive wage transparency policies, equitable salary structures and ongoing monitoring to ensure fair compensation for all.
Training and Capacity Building: Providing women with access to skills training, mentorship, and leadership development programs is crucial in empowering them to take on decision-making roles. Investment in educational initiatives tailored to women in tourism will equip them with the tools needed to succeed in a competitive industry.
Representation in Decision-Making: Having more women in leadership positions is essential for shaping policies that are inclusive and beneficial for all. We must advocate for gender-balanced representation in industry associations, government bodies and corporate boards. Women’s voices must be heard at every level where tourism policies and strategies are determined.
Workplace Equity and Safety: Ensuring safe and equitable workplaces for women in tourism is non-negotiable. This includes implementing workplace policies that prevent harassment, creating family-friendly work environments and offering flexible work arrangements that support work-life balance.
A Call to Action
On this International Women’s Day, I urge all stakeholders—government, private sector players and industry leaders—to commit to actionable change. Let us work together to create an inclusive tourism industry where women are not just contributors but decision-makers. The time for passive advocacy is over; the time to accelerate action is now. We need clear policies, measurable goals and firm commitments to break down barriers and build a tourism sector where every woman has the opportunity to thrive.
Together, we can accelerate action for gender equality and ensure that Ghana’s tourism industry becomes a model of inclusivity and empowerment. Happy International Women’s Day to us all!
The writer, Mrs. Alisa Osei-Asamoah is the President of the Tour Operators Union of Ghana (TOUGHA).
