Minister-designate for Tourism, Andrew Kofi Egyapa Mercer, has said President Akufo-Addo’s action on the Anti-Gay/LGBTQ Bill –whether he signs it or not, –will not have any impact on the sector.
He believes the success of the tourism sector depends on how it is marketed.
The Member of Parliament for Sekondi in the Western region says no matter the stance the President takes on the bill, it would impact the sector in a certain way therefore leaving the success or failure of it on the marketing.
Appearing before Parliament’s Appointment Committee Tuesday, March 05, 2024, the legislator said depending on one’s belief on the issue, assenting to the bill or not will influence how people perceive Ghana.
Thus, advertising the State’s tourist sectors properly will rake in more visitors either the bill is signed or not, and not advertising it will equally dwindle the numbers irrespective of the existence of the law or otherwise.
“It all comes down to how vou promote Ghana and position ourselves within the law that is if His Excellency the President assents to it. It definitely would have an impact and one way or the other, some people believe that lifestyle should be allowed everywhere will find Ghana not an attractive place.
“Some people who believe in our culture will find Ghana as an attractive place so it all comes down to how you market Ghana and what it is that we offer to the world,” he told the Committee.
Parliament passed the Human Sexual and Family Values Bill also known as the Anti-LGBTQ/Gay Bill on Wednesday, February 28, 2024, after going through its third reading in the House.
The passage of the bill has stirred a debate with factions, some in support and others against it. Those kicking against it say there are some provisions that still need to be amended since they appear draconian and do not conform to the Constitution of Ghana.
The Finance Ministry for instance has raised fears over the possible ramifications Ghana could face from its development partners like the World Bank and IMF if the bill is assented.
The Ministry is urging President Akufo-Addo to hold off on signing the bill into law as it may cost the country greatly.
These risks include a potential loss of $850 million in budgetary support from the World Bank this year alone.
In the 5-page document, the Ministry explained that “for 2024 Ghana will lose US$600 million Budget support and US$250 million for the Financial Stability Fund.”
“This will negatively impact Ghana’s foreign exchange reserves and exchange rate stability as these inflows are expected to shore the country’s reserve position,” the statement added.
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