The Tour Operators Union of Ghana (TOUGHA), the umbrella body for all professional travel and tour operators in the country, has inaugurated a new set of executives to steer the affairs of the Union for the next two years.
The inauguration ceremony, held today at the Accra Tourist Information Centre, officially confirmed the assumption of office by President Yvonne Donkor and her six-member executive team, following their election last Wednesday, May 7.
The event was marked by a renewed sense of commitment to unity, innovation and sectoral growth, as expressed in an address by the new President.
In her inaugural speech, Ms. Donkor acknowledged the challenges that the Union has had to overcome in its journey so far, while celebrating the unyielding spirit that has kept it going. “Let’s be honest, the journey to this moment hasn’t always been smooth sailing,” she admitted. “We’ve weathered storms, faced challenges that tested our resilience and navigated a landscape that constantly evolves. But through it all, the spirit of TOUGHA has endured.”
Ms. Donkor paid glowing tribute to the past leadership of the Union, with particular emphasis on her immediate predecessor. “I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to our immediate past President, Mrs. Alisa Osei-Asamoah, and her exceptional team,” she said.
“Their tireless efforts, their unwavering advocacy, and their progressive initiatives have not only elevated TOUGHA but have also made us the envy of many within the broader tourism sector. Madam President, your leadership has been exemplary.”
Charting the path forward, the new TOUGHA president unveiled her leadership philosophy, rooted in collaboration and forward-thinking. “My vision is clear: to forge ahead in absolute unity,” she declared. “We will be proactive, not reactive. We will embrace innovation, explore new technologies, and champion sustainable tourism practices that benefit our Union, our businesses, and our nation.”
She also stressed her commitment to being a listening leader who will work closely with members to unlock new opportunities. “We will listen attentively to your concerns, amplify your voices, and work tirelessly to create an environment where your businesses can thrive,” Ms. Donkor affirmed.
The newly inaugurated TOUGHA leadership includes:
Yvonne Donkor – President
Apostle Emmanuel Mensah – Vice President
Gifty Esinam Barawusu – General Secretary
Sylvia Anim – Treasurer
Charles Odoi – Financial Secretary
Nawaru Mohammed Fuseini – Member
Felix Mintah – Member
The new executives take office at a critical juncture in Ghana’s tourism development. TOUGHA has, in recent years, played a significant role in promoting domestic tourism and influencing tourism policy in the country. Its membership includes leading travel and tour operators who serve both the domestic and international markets.
Ms. Donkor also called on members to actively participate in shaping the Union’s future: “This is not just my vision; it is our shared aspiration. It requires the active participation, the creative energy, and the unwavering dedication of every single member.”
She concluded with a call for unity and optimism. “The future of TOUGHA is bright, filled with opportunities. Together, with a renewed sense of purpose and an unshakeable spirit of unity, we will not only overcome any challenges that come our way, but we will also redefine what it means to experience the warmth and wonder of Ghana.”
