The Tour Operators Union of Ghana (TOUGHA) has held its first-ever Annual General Meeting (AGM), bringing together key stakeholders in Ghana’s tourism industry to deliberate on the future of tour operations and chart a path towards greater professionalism, innovation and sustainable growth.
The historic meeting, held on October 30, 2026, at the La Palm Royal Beach Hotel in Accra, was organised under the theme, “Transforming Tour Operations for Sustainable Growth: Professionalism, Domestic Tourism and Artificial Intelligence.”
The AGM brought together traditional leadership, government representatives, academia, tourism industry leaders, members of the Union and other stakeholders to discuss emerging opportunities and challenges within the tourism sector.
Among the distinguished personalities present were Baffour Dr. Osei Hyiaman Brantuo VI, Mawerehene of His Majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, Asantehene, and Life Patron of TOUGHA; Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Shamima Muslim, representing the Chief of Staff; Prof. Kwaku Boakye, Vice-Chancellor of Cape Coast Technical University; and Mr. Ben Anane-Nsiah, a Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Tourism Authority.
The gathering also featured representatives of the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, the Ghana Tourism Federation, Ghana Immigration Service, sister trade associations and other tourism industry stakeholders.
In her welcome address, TOUGHA President, Ms. Yvonne Donkor, described the AGM as an important platform for the Union to reflect on its work, assess its progress, address challenges and establish practical strategies for the future.
She emphasised that professionalism must remain central to tour operations, urging members to uphold high standards of service delivery, ethical conduct, safety and customer satisfaction to strengthen confidence in Ghana’s tourism industry.
On domestic tourism, she called for renewed efforts to encourage Ghanaians to explore the country’s rich cultural, historical and natural attractions. She noted that increased domestic travel would create business opportunities, support local communities, generate employment and contribute to a more resilient tourism sector.
She also highlighted the growing importance of Artificial Intelligence, describing it as an emerging tool that could improve customer service, personalise travel experiences, support marketing and bookings, and enhance the efficiency of business operations.
However, she stressed that technology must complement rather than replace the human connection and personal touch that define the tourism experience.
Industry leadership and academic perspectives
A major highlight of the AGM was an address by Baffour Dr. Osei Hyiaman Brantuo VI, Mawerehene of the Asantehene and Life Patron of TOUGHA.
His participation reflected the importance of traditional leadership and institutional support in advancing tourism development and strengthening the work of industry associations.
Prof. Kwaku Boakye, Vice-Chancellor of Cape Coast Technical University, also delivered the keynote address on the AGM’s theme, offering an academic perspective on the transformation of tour operations and the importance of building a sustainable and competitive tourism industry.
The presence of Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Shamima Muslim, representing the Chief of Staff, further underscored the engagement between the Union and government on issues affecting the tourism sector.
President presents State of the Union Report
Another significant feature of the AGM was the presentation of the State of the Union Report by Ms. Donkor, who outlined the activities and achievements of TOUGHA during the year under review.
The report provided an overview of the Union’s work while identifying areas requiring attention as it seeks to strengthen its institutional capacity and better serve its members.
Looking ahead, the President outlined several priorities, including securing a permanent secretariat for TOUGHA, digitising the Union’s administrative systems and expanding training programmes for members.
Other priorities include intensifying domestic tourism campaigns, strengthening partnerships across Africa, growing membership and enhancing advocacy for policies that will improve the operating environment for tour operators.
She acknowledged that while the Union had made considerable progress, much remained to be done, emphasising the need for unity, collaboration and a willingness to adapt to changes within the tourism industry.
TOUGHA celebrates 25 years of industry contribution
The AGM also provided an opportunity for TOUGHA to celebrate its 25th anniversary, a milestone the Union attained in 2025.
As part of the gathering, the organisation honoured individuals whose contributions have played important roles in its establishment, development and growth over the past quarter-century.
Those recognised included the founder of the Union, former presidents, industry players and members whose leadership, dedication and service have helped shape TOUGHA into an important voice within Ghana’s tourism and travel industry.
The recognition was a tribute to the collective efforts of those who have contributed to the Union’s journey and helped advance the interests of tour operators over the years.
The successful organisation of its first-ever AGM marks an important development in TOUGHA’s institutional journey, providing a platform for members and stakeholders to collectively examine the direction of the Union and the broader tour operations industry.
