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GTA Celebrates Ghana’s Rich Cocoa Legacy With Newly Appointed Ministers
In a heartfelt celebration of Ghana’s cocoa heritage, the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA), under the auspices of the Ministry of Tourism, Culture, and Creative Arts, delighted newly appointed ministers with an array of Ghanaian chocolates and cocoa-based products. These presentation, held on February 14, 2025, was a key highlight of National Chocolate Week.
Staff of the GTA’s marketing department, representing CEO Mrs. Maame Efua Houadjeto, carried out this thoughtful gesture. Under the themes “Eat Chocolate, Stay Healthy, Grow Ghana” and “Chocolate for All: Taste, Share, and Care,” the initiative emphasized the significant economic and cultural importance of cocoa.
Ministries Visited
The outreach extended to several key ministries, including Communication, Environment, Finance, Health, Lands and Natural Resources, Local Government, Agriculture, Gender, Children, and Social Protection, as well as Tourism, Culture, and Creative Arts. By sharing premium Ghanaian chocolates, the GTA highlighted the health benefits and national pride associated with cocoa.
National Chocolate Week Celebrations
National Chocolate Week serves as a vibrant platform to showcase Ghana’s exceptional cocoa products. It aims to position the country as a premier destination for cocoa-based tourism, engaging both local and international visitors in a week-long celebration of cocoa’s versatility and health benefits.
The Benefits of Chocolate
The initiative not only celebrates Ghana’s cocoa industry but also raises awareness about the positive impact of chocolate consumption. Ghana’s cocoa is renowned for its high quality, and the GTA encourages everyone to incorporate chocolate into their daily lives for its numerous health benefits, including its role as a source of antioxidants and its positive effects on cardiovascular health.
Looking Ahead
As the celebrations continue, the GTA urges everyone to support the local cocoa industry and contribute to the growth and development of the nation. Together, let’s celebrate Ghana’s cocoa legacy and enjoy the delightful taste of Ghanaian chocolates every day.
CHOCOLATE DAY 2025 LAUNCHED
The Ghana Tourism Authority, in collaboration with COCOBOD and Cocoa Processing Company, is excited to announce the 2025 National Chocolate Week under the theme; “EAT CHOCOLATE, STAY HEALTHY, GROW GHANA” and sub themed: “CHOCOLATE FOR ALL: TASTE, SHARE AND CARE”.
Under the auspices of the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, the National Chocolate Week will be organized from 3rd February to 14th February 2025. The event is celebrated to promote the consumption of chocolate and highlight chocolate as a healthy product.
The National Chocolate Day Celebration was instituted in 2005 to coincide with Valentine’s Day which falls on 14th February every year to boost the domestic consumption of Ghanaian chocolate and other cocoa-based products. In 2021, COCOBOD and GTA extended the day’s celebration to a week-long event, which has been organized successfully since then.
The Black Star experience embodies Ghana’s rich cultural heritage, with cocoa at its heart as a symbol of national pride and economic strength. As we celebrate Chocolate Week, we honour the farmers who cultivate this prestigious crop, transforming it into the sweet delight that brings joy to millions worldwide. The Black Star shines brightly through Ghana’s cocoa, a testament to our nation’s resilience, innovation, and commitment to producing some of the world’s finest chocolate.
Regional offices of the Ghana Tourism Authority will participate in the National Chocolate Week by visiting the Pediatric Units of Regional Hospitals on 14th February 2025.
The activities for this year include.
- Media Engagement and Sensitization on 3rd – 14th February 2025 to sensitize the general public about the health benefits of chocolate and other cocoa-based products.
- Melting moment on 13th February 2025 – A chocolate drink stand will be mounted at the reception of the Ghana Tourism Authority, Head Office.
- Float and Chocolate feast on 14th February 2025 through the principal streets of Accra, which will end with a durbar for stakeholders at the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park.
- Chocolate experience on 14th February 2025. Activation at the Kotoka International Airport to sensitize the public on the health and nutritional benefits of chocolate and distribute bar chocolate to passengers at the arrival hall.
- Hotel and Restaurant Participation: Throughout the Chocolate Week, hotels and restaurants across Ghana are encouraged to incorporate chocolate into their menus, offering special chocolate-themed dishes and desserts. On 14th February, these establishments are also urged to distribute complimentary chocolate to patrons as a symbol of love.
GTA WELCOMES NEW MINISTER OF TOURISM, CULTURE AND CREATIVE ARTS
The Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) held a meeting today, 4th February, 2025 to welcome the new Minister of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Hon. Abla Dzifa Gomashie. The meeting forms parts of activities marking her assumption of office as the sector minister.
In the meeting held at GTA Head office, Hon. Gomashie expressed her gratitude and acknowledged the roles each agency under the ministry plays in promoting destination Ghana.
She challenged management and staff to work collectively and harmoniously to make Ghana a destination of choice domestically and internationally.
She expressed her excitement to work with GTA and willingness to explore ways in which we can work together to drive growth, innovation, and excellence.
The staff and management congratulated her and expressed their gratitude for the interactive engagement and guaranteed their commitment to working closely with her for a better Ghana.
GTA Welcomes New Chief Executive Officer
The Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) held a maiden meeting to welcome its newly appointed CEO, Mrs. Maame Efua Houadjeto, on Monday, February 3, 2025, at its Head Office.
Mrs. Houadjeto succeeds Mr. Akwasi Agyeman who was present to welcome her.
During the meeting, Mrs. Houadjeto expressed her deep gratitude for the warm reception, stating that she was honored to lead the GTA. She emphasized her commitment to promoting Ghana’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty, urging management and staff to work collaboratively as a team to drive the growth and development of the tourism industry in Ghana.
Notably, Mrs. Houadjeto is the second female CEO of the GTA since its establishment as the Ghana Tourist Board (GTB) in 1973, and the first female CEO since the GTB became an Authority under the Tourism Act, 2011 (Act 817).
The staff and management congratulated and interacted with her.
The Success of Anansekrom Toon Festival: Celebrating Africa’s Cartoon Talent
The second edition of the Anansekrom Toon Festival, Africa’s International Cartoon Festival, concluded in grand style, marking another successful celebration of creativity and talent. Held on December 26, 2024 (Boxing Day), in the vibrant city of Accra, this year’s festival witnessed an impressive turnout of artists, enthusiasts, and visitors from across the continent and beyond.
Parables Animation Studios (PAS), the producers of Ghana’s first-ever animated feature film, the animation streaming platform KOLIKO+, and Africa’s first environmental superhero animated series, proudly powered the 2nd edition of ANANSEKROM TOON FESTIVAL (ATF 2024). This event, which started last year as Ghana’s first cartoon festival, commemorated the tenth anniversary of PAS’ renowned “Time with Ananse Live On Stage” theatrical shows at the Silverbird cinemas. Now widely known as Africa’s International Cartoon Festival, it features inspiring African artists and their amazing works.
A Celebration of Folklore and Creativity
The ANANSEKROM TOON FESTIVAL (ATF) is a two-day festival celebrating Ananse projects and African folklore using both traditional and modern forms of communication. The event included art and craft exhibitions, workshops, panel discussions, live folkloric music, poetry and storytelling, animation screenings, puppetry, sip and paint sessions, live caricature drawing, a caveman experience, and other engaging activities.
The festival commenced with an opening ceremony at the National Children & Mobile Library in the Airport residential area. Mr. Edward Addo-Yobo, the Regional Director of the Ghana Library Authority (GhLA) for Greater Accra, Cycil Jones Abban, the Director of the Anansekrom Toon Festival, and V.T. Albert Tetteh Amafu, the Manager, alongside other dignitaries and media friends, officially launched the event.
Following the opening ceremony, dignitaries toured the event grounds, led by V.T. Albert Tetteh. Attendees were astounded by the exceptional creativity and versatility of cartoon artists from various African countries, including Congo, Kenya, Nigeria, Benin, and Cameroon.
Panel of Legends and Engaging Activities
One of the highlights of the festival was the “Panel of Legends” session, an awe-inspiring discussion featuring Pierre Anani Accoh (cartoonist & illustrator, Togo), Tunji Anjorin (President of Panaramic Comics, Nigeria), Mr. Edward Addo-Yobo (Regional Director, GhLA), Baah A. Solomon (Socio-political artist, Ghana), Dr. Wale Okediran (Secretary General of Pan-African Writers Association), and others who joined via Zoom. Under the theme “UNITING AFRICA THROUGH ART,” they shared wisdom on the past, present, and future of Ghana and Africa’s animation and creative industry. The discussion, facilitated by V.T. Albert Tetteh, concluded with a lively Q&A session.
The festival also featured a range of activities, including “Color on My Wall,” Sip and Paint, Art/Craft and Animation workshops, screenings, the Caveman Experience, “Lend Your Voice To Animation” contests, art and cartoon exhibitions, and traditional games.
Animation workshops led by Parables’ Martin Dzakobo (Senior Animator), Caris Tachie-Menson (Animator/illustrator), and Dawud Abdul Mumin (3D Character Designer) provided a firsthand experience of Stop-Motion Animation and more. These sessions were well-attended, and many parents signed up their children for future workshops.
Special Screenings and Awards
A special Student Animation Screening session showcased works by student film producers from Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) and the National Film and Television Institute/University of Media, Arts and Communication. This inspiring session was praised by parents and stakeholders, encouraging them to continue exposing their children to worthy content produced in Ghana and Africa.
The festival concluded with memorable nighttime performances of live folkloric music and poetry, storytelling by the fireside, drama, and a dazzling display of puppetry and musical narratives in “Time with Ananse Live On Stage.” The top three winners of the day’s contests and workshops received prizes from Indomie Ghana and other partners, presented by Hiram Geraldo (Marketing Executive – Indomie Ghana). Major animated feature film screenings and discussions were also part of the festivities.
An Unforgettable Experience
The unique nature of the Anansekrom Toon Festival amazed all who attended, providing something special for people of all ages. The festival was a resounding success, promising an even greater experience next year. Africa, get ready!
ATF 2024 was proudly powered by Parables Animation Studios (@Parables_Gh) in partnership with the Ghana Library Authority, sponsored mainly by Indomie Ghana, and supported by the Embassy of Switzerland in Ghana. It was officially endorsed by the Ghana Tourism Authority’s “Beyond The Return” initiative.
MEDIA PARTNERS: ATV Ghana, Ameyaw Debrah, TV Africa, GTV, OnlineTimes GH, Graphic Communication Group, GhanaWeb, World News Update, Junior Graphic…
Anansekrom Toon Festival: Africa’s International Cartoon Festival. @AnansekromToonFestival on all socials, X (formerly Twitter): @AnanseToonFest anansekromtoonfestival@gmail.com +233265068758
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ATF 2024 is proudly powered by Parables Animation Studios (@Parables_Gh) in partnership with the GHANA LIBRARY AUTHORITY, sponsored mainly by INDOMIE GHANA and with the support of the EMBASSY OF SWITZERLAND IN GHANA. Officially endorsed by the GHANA TOURISM AUTHORITY “Beyond The Return” Initiative.
MEDIA PARTNERS: ATV Ghana, Ameyaw Debrah, TV Africa, GTV, OnlineTimes GH, Graphic Communication Group, GhanaWeb, World News Update, Junior Graphic
AFRICAN MUSIC WEEK – ACCRA LAUNCH: KICKING OFF THE COUNTDOWN TO 2025
Accra, Ghana – December 23, 2024 – African Music Week (AMW) is set to launch its inaugural Accra edition at the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC) Conference Room on December 27, 2024, from 4 PM to 9 PM. This official launch serves as the first step in the countdown to the main African Music Week Festival scheduled for 2025. It marks a pivotal step in promoting music tourism, fostering cultural exchange, and continue to position Ghana as a hub for Africa’s growing creative economy.
Under the theme “Exploring Music Tourism Markets & Opportunities,” the event will feature:
- Keynote Addresses: Discussions on leveraging music tourism to develop Ghana and Canada’s music ecosystems.
- Panel Discussion: Experts will explore key topics, including:
- Unlocking Ghana’s potential as a music tourism destination.
- Integrating music tourism into broader tourism strategies.
- Lessons from global case studies of successful music tourism destinations.
- Policy recommendations for sustainable growth in the creative sector.
- Networking Session: Connecting industry leaders, stakeholders, and artists for collaboration and growth.
- Music Showcase: Performances by artists from Ghana and Ontario, Canada, celebrating cross-cultural talent and artistic innovation.
The African Music Week – Accra Launch is part of the “December in Ghana” program endorsed by the Ghana Tourism Authority and the Beyond The Return initiative. This global platform aims to position Ghana as a vibrant destination for music and cultural exchange while creating new opportunities for Canadian and African creatives. With Africa’s music industry projected to surpass $1 billion by 2025, AMW Accra presents a unique gateway for international partnerships and market development.
Event Details:
- Date: December 27, 2024
- Time: 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Venue: GIPC Conference Room, 4th Floor, Accra, Ghana
Featured Speakers Include:
- Khadijat El-Alawa – CEO, The Continent Live/Universal Music Sync & Brands
- Ruddy Kwakye – Founder & CEO, The Rave Group
- Bola Ray – CEO, EIB Network Ltd
- Yoofi Grant – CEO, Ghana Investment Promotion Centre
“African Music Week Accra is a vital initiative to bridge cultural and economic ties between Ghana and Canada. By exploring music tourism, we aim to empower artists, create sustainable opportunities, and position Ghana as a creative powerhouse on the global stage. This event also kicks off the journey to the main African Music Week Festival in 2025,” said Julz Ossom, Founder & Director of AMW.
About African Music Week (AMW): African Music Week is an international platform dedicated to connecting African and global artists, industry leaders, and audiences. AMW Accra, an extension of the Toronto-based AMW, serves as a strategic hub for cultural exchange, innovation, and economic growth within the music industry. The Accra launch marks the beginning of the countdown to the 2025 African Music Week Festival
For Media Inquiries:
Dede Gedza
ticmanagementgh@gmail.com
+233505509712
PRESS RELEASE – GTA Finalises Engagements with Airbnb to Regularise Operations
Accra, Ghana – 21st November, 2024 – The Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) has introduced a new registration regime for short-term rentals in response to the significant rise in listings on platforms like Airbnb, fueled by both local hosts and international investors and visitors.
Key Regulations Outlined:
– Mandatory Documents: Business registration certificate for facilities with four or more listings, and a Ghana Card for those with less than three listings.
– Registration Process: Facilities will receive a provisional license valid for six months, renewable upon submission of outstanding documents, which may include a police clearance certificate, fire report, environmental health report, and evidence of ownership.
– Registration Portal Requirements: Host’s name, GRA TIN and/or Ghana Card ID number, business registration certificate, email, phone number, and listing address.
Over the past two years, the GTA has diligently worked with Airbnb to regularize operations in Ghana. This fruitful partnership has led to the creation of a Responsible Hosting Page for Ghana, providing crucial information and links for hosts. Notably, some Airbnb hosts have already completed the registration process, as Airbnb has included the information on their platform.
As the registration portal for short-term rentals prepares to launch, facilities will be required to apply through the GTA’s single window platform. Recognizing the unique needs of short-term rentals, the GTA is also developing tailored standards to enhance the tourism experience and contribute to Ghana’s economic growth.
“The introduction of this new registration regime marks a significant milestone in our efforts to create a structured and sustainable tourism ecosystem in Ghana. By regularizing short-term rentals, we are not only ensuring the safety and quality of accommodations but also fostering economic benefits and cultural exchange,” said Akwasi Agyeman, CEO of the Ghana Tourism Authority.
The GTA’s initiatives aim to balance economic growth, cultural exchange, and community involvement, further cementing Ghana’s position as a desirable travel destination.
Issued by the Corporate Affairs Department
Nationalism Park Officially Opens to the General Public
Accra, Ghana- December 19, 2024- The much anticipated Nationalism Park will officially open its gates to the general public on December 20, 2024. This will mark a historic moment in the celebration of unity, cultural pride, and national heritage as part of the December in Gh activities.
Nationalism Park, a one-of-a-kind space, has been designated to honour the rich tapestry of our nation’s history, showcasing the evolution of our identity, resilience and the collective dreams of our people. The ceremony promises to be an inspiring blend of art and culture that pays tribute to the heroes’ movement and milestones that have shaped the nation.
The opening of Nationalism Park is a call to action for every citizen to reflect on the values of patriotism, togetherness and progress. It provides a space for dialogue, education and celebration, fostering a sense of belonging and shared purpose.
According to the Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Tourism Authority, Mr. Akwasi Agyeman, “the Nationalism Park is a site for national, community and social cohesion, where we can all come together as Ghanaians and celebrate our past heroes and leaders”.
The Nationalism Park is a collaborative effort of the Ghana Tourism Authority, the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, the Korle Klottey Municipal Assembly, and the National Security to transform the site into a world- class tourist destination.
The Park features a city lighting park, two monuments celebrating Nii Kwabena Bonnie III and our national pride represented by an egg on rocks, a restaurant, a snack bar, a children’s play area, and other attractions. Additionally, the park will increase tourist footfall by driving local economies, creating jobs and spurring hospitality activities in the surrounding areas.
The nationalism park is located between Independence square and the Accra Sports Stadium.
Issued by the Corporate Affairs Department
Nationalism Park Commissioned: A New Era for Ghana’s Heritage and Tourism
Accra, Ghana – December 2, 2024 – The Ghana Tourism Authority is excited to announce the grand commissioning of the redeveloped Nationalism Park and the newly renovated 28th February Crossroads Memorial. These pivotal symbols of our nation’s identity and pride represent a significant milestone in Ghana’s cultural and recreational landscape. The 28th February Crossroads, also known as the Christianborg Crossroads, is a significant historical site where three World War II veterans—Sergeant Adjetey, Corporal Attipoe, and Private Odartey-Lamptey—were shot and killed by colonial police on February 28, 1948.
The ceremony, graced by His Excellency Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, President of the Republic of Ghana, was a landmark event attended by government officials, Service Commanders of the Ghana Military, traditional leaders, dignitaries, and key stakeholders in the tourism industry.
Mr. Akwasi Agyeman,CEO of the Ghana Tourism Authority, emphasized the importance of Nationalism Park in his welcome address: “This site is a place for national, community, and social cohesion, where we can all come together as Ghanaians and celebrate our past heroes and leaders.”
Benefits to Ghana’s Tourism Landscape
The commissioning of Nationalism Park marks a monumental addition to Ghana’s heritage, cultural, and recreational landscape, offering numerous benefits:
– Boost to Tourism: The park, along with the renovated 28th February Crossroads Memorial, is set to attract both local and international visitors, significantly boosting tourism arrivals.
– Economic Growth: Increased tourist footfall will drive local economies, create jobs, and spur hospitality activities in the surrounding areas.
– Cultural Hub: Nationalism Park will serve as a central hub for national events, cultural exhibitions, and community activities, promoting unity and social cohesion.
– Educational Value: The park offers rich educational opportunities, teaching both locals and visitors about Ghana’s storied past and the heroes who shaped it.
The park features a city lighting park, two monuments celebrating Nii Kwabena Bonnie III and our national pride represented by an egg on rocks, a restaurant, a snack bar, a children’s play area, and other attractions.
The ceremony highlighted the collaborative efforts of the Ghana Tourism Authority, the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, the Korle Klottey Municipal Assembly, and National Security to transform Nationalism Park into a world-class tourist destination.
Opening to the Public
Nationalism Park will be officially opened to the public on 20th December as part of the **December in GH** activities.
Join us in celebrating Ghana’s heritage and exploring the revitalized landmarks that tell our nation’s inspiring story.
By: GTA Corporate Affairs Department
Get Ready for an Exciting December in GH 2024! in Ghana
Accra, Ghana – November 30, 2024: The final line-up for December in GH 2024 is officially out! Spearheaded by the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) in collaboration with the Beyond the Return Secretariat, this year’s calendar promises a series of electrifying events across the country.
Since its launch as part of the ‘Year of Return’ in 2019, December in GH has become the heartbeat of Ghana’s cultural and tourism scene, drawing locals and international visitors eager to experience our vibrant heritage, arts, and entertainment.
This year’s festive calendar features a wide range of activities that highlight Ghanaian culture and foster connections within local communities. The Ghana Tourism Authority, alongside event organizers, has taken December in GH to new heights. CEO Akwasi Agyeman remarked, “Each event is an opportunity for collaboration, inspiration, and connection as we celebrate our rich and diverse Ghanaian culture amongst ourselves and with the world. These events pave the way for an even more impactful year ahead.”
The 2023 Tourism Report shows an impressive growth in visitor numbers, which more than doubled in 2022, reflecting a 47% increase. This trend continued in 2023 with 1,148,002 arrivals, a 25% rise from the previous year, surpassing pre-COVID figures by 2%. This marks a thrilling recovery for Ghana’s tourism sector, with a target of 1.3 million visitors this year.
The December in GH festivities not only elevate the tourism experience but also have a positive economic impact, especially for SMEs. These vibrant events boost demand for everything from accommodation to local artisan goods, benefiting small business owners and communities.
Beyond economic growth, December in GH plays a vital role in celebrating and preserving Ghana’s rich culture. For more information about the exciting events lined up, visit www.decemberingh.com. Stay tuned on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, TikTok, and Reels for updates on all things December in GH.
Let’s unite to embrace the joy and magic of December in GH!
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