Ghana’s Minister for Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Hon. Andrew Egyapa Mercer has delivered an impactful address at the 121st Executive Council meeting of the United Nations Tourism Council (UNWTO). In his speech, he emphasized Ghana’s openness to developmental collaboration and the increasing patronage of its vibrant tourism sector.
Hon. Mercer highlighted the robust recovery of international tourism, noting that Africa has surpassed pre-pandemic arrival figures, a testament to the continent’s resilience and allure. He shared that Ghana’s tourism industry mirrored this positive trend, with a 25 percent increase in tourist arrivals in 2023 compared to the previous year, and a 2 percent rise compared to pre-pandemic levels. This growth underscores the recovery and expansion of African tourist destinations.
In his address, Hon. Mercer reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to supporting the UNWTO’s initiatives and advancing sustainable tourism practices. He detailed several initiatives aimed at promoting eco-tourism, cultural and heritage tourism, and community-based tourism. These efforts are designed to attract responsible tourists who contribute positively to local communities and help preserve the environment.
“The successful ‘Beyond the Return’ initiative, a sequel to the ‘Year of Return’ aims to sustain dialogue among people of African descent and foster economic relations and investments from the diaspora.”
Hon. Andrew Egyapa Mercer, Minister for Tourism, Arts, and Culture
The Minister underscored the importance of such programs in strengthening Ghana’s cultural and economic connections globally.
In addition to international tourism, Hon. Mercer discussed the promotion of domestic tourism through campaigns like EXPERIENCEGHANA and SHAREGHANA. These initiatives aim to boost domestic tourism visits and expedite the recovery of the sector. By encouraging Ghanaians to explore their own country, these campaigns foster national pride and contribute to the local economy.
The Minister also provided an update on the significant developments in Ghana’s tourism infrastructure. He cited the ongoing Accra Marine Drive Project, a transformative 241-acre redevelopment scheme along Accra’s waterfront. This ambitious project is set to create an iconic skyline for Accra and transform the area into a world-class tourism enclave. Such infrastructural advancements are pivotal in enhancing the country’s appeal as a top-tier tourist destination.
Boosting Sustainable Tourism
Addressing the ease of travel, Hon. Mercer noted the Government of Ghana’s efforts to restructure the visa regime. A key component of this strategy is the proposal to introduce an e-visa system.
“This innovation aims to streamline the visa application process, making it easier for visitors to travel to Ghana. The introduction of an e-visa system is anticipated to significantly boost tourism growth by improving accessibility and convenience for international travelers.”
Hon. Andrew Egyapa Mercer, Minister for Tourism, Arts, and Culture
Throughout his address, Hon. Mercer reiterated Ghana’s dedication to sustainable tourism development. He emphasized that the country’s tourism strategies are designed to benefit the people, culture, and environment of Ghana. By promoting sustainable practices, Ghana aims to ensure that tourism growth does not come at the expense of its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty.
Hon. Mercer extended a warm invitation to the global audience, encouraging them to visit Ghana. He highlighted the nation’s renowned hospitality, rich cultural heritage, and picturesque landscapes. The Minister assured potential visitors of a memorable experience, enriched by Ghana’s vibrant culture and scenic beauty.
The meeting in Barcelona provided a platform for Ghana to showcase its achievements and future plans in the tourism sector. Hon. Mercer’s address was well-received, reflecting Ghana’s proactive stance in the global tourism industry and its commitment to sustainable and inclusive growth.
Ghana’s active participation in international forums such as the UNWTO Executive Council meeting underscores its strategic approach to positioning itself as a leading destination in Africa. With ongoing initiatives and infrastructural developments, Ghana is poised to enhance its tourism appeal and forge stronger collaborations within the global tourism community.
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