The tourism sector in Ghana has experienced an impressive revival, as indicated by international arrivals contributing a substantial $3.8 billion by the conclusion of 2023, according to the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture.
This signifies a notable rise from the preceding year’s $2.5 billion, signalling a strong rebound from the challenges imposed by the pandemic.
The Chief Director of the Ministry, Mr John Yao Agbeko, underscored the importance of stakeholders collaborating to establish a favourable regulatory framework, thereby facilitating continued growth within the sector.
Addressing attendees at the GIPC Quarter Two CEOs 2024 Breakfast Meeting in Accra, he pointed out the potential for sustained expansion, referencing Ghana’s notable increase in international arrivals. In 2022, there were 914,882 visitors, followed by 1,148,002 in 2023, yielding substantial receipts of $2.5 billion and $3.8 billion, respectively.
The Ministry has committed to fostering an enabling environment for the sustainable growth and development of tourism, arts, and culture. Through the implementation of effective policies, plans, programs, and projects, it aims to significantly contribute to Ghana’s GDP.
This commitment is anticipated to positively impact the country’s economy, especially considering the sector’s substantial contribution to Ghana’s GDP.
“In Africa, the tourism industry showed considerable strength in coping with 75% of each pandemic receipt. Ghana, however, recovered a total international arrival of nine hundred and fourteen thousand, eight hundred and eighty-two in 2022 and One million, one hundred and forty-eight thousand and two in 2023 giving a receipt of $2.5 billion and $3.8 billion respectively. These are just the international arrivals,” he said.
Meanwhile, Deputy Finance Minister Dr Stephen Amoah has urged stakeholders in the tourism industry to prioritize domestic tourism to stabilize the depreciating cedi.
He emphasised the need for home-grown policy tools that address Ghana’s specific needs, encouraging patrons and players in the industry to support local economic growth.
“One thing I’ve seen about Africa is that we have a lot of ideas but sometimes the global modules control us too much. We need to build home-grown policy tools that specifically address our needs. Let’s begin to show the high level of patronage and keep the money here. I think as a country we have everything at our disposal to develop tourism because God has endowed us,” he said.
