Minister for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Andrew Egyapa Mercer is making a case for Ghana’s Tourism space for more developmental collaboration and tourist patronage.
The Minister made these profound remarks at the 121st Executive Council meeting of the United Nations Tourism in Barcelona, Spain on Tuesday, June 11 when he addressed council members.
Egyapa Mercer was accompanied by Ghana’s Ambassador to Spain, H.E. Muhammad Adam and the Director for Toursim at the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mr. Geoffrey Tamakloe.
Addressing members at the council meeting, the Minister assured the gathering of Ghana’s resolve to continue supporting UN Tourism’s efforts by providing latest data to show a strong recovery in international tourism with Africa surpassing pre-pandemic arrivals.
“Furthermore, I underscored, that Ghana’s tourism industry has also shown resilience with a 25% increase in arrivals in 2023 compared to the previous year, and a 2% rise in pre-pandemic figures indicating a strong recovery trend in African destinations,” the Minister wrote on his Facebook handle.
On the lines of sustainable practices, the Minister shared Ghana’s commitment to promoting sustainable practices that benefit local communities and preserve the environment.
He said initiatives such as eco-tourism, cultural and heritage tourism and community-based tourism are being implemented to attract responsible tourists.
The Sekondi MP also highlighted steps being taken by the government to make Ghana an attractive destination.
He noted that steps to restructure the visa regime, including a proposal to introduce an e-visa system that will make it easier for visitors to travel to Ghana and promote tourism growth.
According to him, these initiatives demonstrate government’s commitment to enhancing accessibility and promoting Ghana as a desirable destination for both domestic and international travellers.
The Minister reiterated Ghana’s commitment to sustainable tourism development that benefits her people, culture, and environment.
He used the opportunity to invite the gathering to visit Ghana and experience her warm hospitality, rich culture, and natural beauty.
