Stakeholders in Ghana’s hospitality and tourism industry have been urged to adopt innovation, sustainability and digital technology as key drivers of growth in an increasingly competitive global market.
The call came at the 13th Delegates Conference of the Institute of Hospitality Ghana held in Tamale under the theme, “Leading Progress in Hospitality and Tourism: Innovation, Sustainability and Green Technology.”
Addressing participants, National President of the Institute of Hospitality Ghana, Dr Patricia Owusu-Darko, said rapid technological changes, shifting consumer preferences and environmental concerns demand a new approach to hospitality and tourism development.
She outlined several initiatives aimed at preparing the next generation of industry professionals, including youth entrepreneurship programmes, startup bootcamps, scholarships and plans to introduce digital hospitality laboratories, e-certification and online micro-credential courses.
Dr Owusu-Darko also announced a forthcoming Women in Hospitality and Tourism Initiative to equip women with leadership, business and digital skills, including training in the application of artificial intelligence within the sector.
She stressed the need for stronger partnerships with local communities and traditional authorities to promote sustainable tourism while preserving Ghana’s cultural heritage.
Hospitality and Tourism Consultant Dr Joseph Mensah-Ansah called on educational institutions to redesign their training models to equip students with critical thinking, creativity and entrepreneurial skills needed to navigate the evolving industry.
Meanwhile, Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Tourism Development Company, Professor Kobby Mensah, encouraged businesses to maximise digital platforms and online marketing to improve visibility and competitiveness.
He said tools such as the Ghana Tourism Marketplace and the GTDC’s Tourism Entrepreneurship Hub offer opportunities for businesses, startups and students to access mentorship, digital payment solutions and wider markets.
The two-day conference brought together industry professionals, academics, students and tourism operators to discuss practical strategies for building a resilient and sustainable hospitality sector in Ghana.
By Nadra Mohammed
