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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!
GHANA OPENS ITS DOORS: NON-PRE-APPROVAL VISA ON ARRIVAL FOR ‘DECEMBER IN GH’ VISITORS
Accra, Ghana – November 29, 2024 – The Ghana Tourism Authority is excited to announce that from December 1, 2024, to January 15, 2025, visitors can enjoy a Non-Pre-Approval Visa on Arrival in Ghana. This progressive policy is a key element of the ‘December in GH’ campaign, part of the transformative 10-year “Beyond the Return” initiative.
Designed to simplify entry, this visa waiver makes it easier than ever for travelers to experience Ghana’s rich culture, vibrant festivals, and unforgettable events featured in the December in GH calendar. The Government of Ghana is poised to attract an influx of visitors, amplifying the tourism sector and affirming Ghana’s reputation as a premier global
destination for visitors and investors alike.
In a directive issued on November 28, 2024, Hon. Kwaku Ofori Asiamah, Minister of Transport, called on all Airlines to update their systems promptly to implement this new policy. This initiative not only aligns with the “Beyond the Return” vision but also strengthens Ghana’s connections with the global African community, fostering cultural exchange and economic growth. The pre-approval waiver exemplifies Ghana’s commitment to welcoming the African diaspora and international visitors, ensuring a smoother, more accessible travel experience.
Akwasi Agyeman, CEO of the Ghana Tourism Authority, emphasizes the significance of this new visa regime, urging travelers to take advantage of this exceptional opportunity and fully immerse themselves in the exciting December in GH festivities.
The December in GH campaign showcases a dynamic calendar of officially endorsed events by the Ghana Tourism Authority and the Beyond the Return Steering Committee, designed to draw travelers who plan their visits around these exciting activities.
Since its launch in 2019, December in GH has positioned Ghana as a must-visit holiday destination, attracting global travelers eager to engage with the nation’s rich arts and culture. This campaign serves as a rallying point for the African family worldwide, inviting a reconnection like never before.
For more information about the December in GH initiative, visit our official website at www.decemberingh.com
Ghana Grants Citizenship to 524 Members of the Diaspora Community
In a historic ceremony held at the Accra International Conference Centre on Tuesday, November 19, 2024, 524 members of the African diaspora were officially granted Ghanaian citizenship. This event, the third of its kind under President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo’s administration, celebrated the enduring bond between Ghana and its global diaspora.
The ceremony is part of an ongoing initiative that began with the “Year of Return” in 2019, commemorating 400 years since the first enslaved Africans were transported to the Americas. President Akufo-Addo described the event as a significant milestone in reconnecting the African diaspora with their ancestral roots.
Addressing the new citizens, President Akufo-Addo highlighted the emotional and historical significance of the occasion. “Your ancestors left these shores in circumstances that were tragic and inhumane. Today, we embrace you as our own— as fellow citizens of this nation and as part of the Ghanaian family,” he said. The President emphasized that being Ghanaian goes beyond holding a passport. “It is about embodying values such as respect, equity, and peace. These are the principles that define us as a people, and we invite you to make them your own as you integrate into our society,” he added.
The President recounted the success of the Year of Return, which saw hundreds of thousands of people visit Ghana, rekindling ties with Africa. The initiative sparked a global conversation about the African diaspora’s role in the continent’s future and laid the groundwork for deeper connections. President Akufo-Addo expressed optimism about the contributions the new citizens would make to Ghana’s development. “Your skills, knowledge, and experiences from all over the world enrich our nation. Whether in education, healthcare, technology, or the arts, you have the potential to drive Ghana’s growth,” he said.
The President also acknowledged the role of the diaspora in reshaping global perceptions of Africa. “You are human bridges connecting us across the Atlantic. Your presence dispels misconceptions and tells a new story of unity, pride, and potential,” he noted. Citing the words of Marcus Garvey and Peter Tosh, President Akufo-Addo reminded the new citizens of the shared heritage that unites all people of African descent. “Africa is your home, and Ghana welcomes you with open arms. This is more than a ceremony; it is a reaffirmation of our collective identity and destiny,” he said.
The government, he assured, remains committed to making Ghana a welcoming and vibrant home for the diaspora. Policies to support investments, collaborations, and community-building initiatives are already in place, reflecting the administration’s dedication to strengthening ties with Africans abroad.
This occasion marks another step towards fostering unity and celebrating the rich heritage of the African diaspora.
Wanderlust Ghana’s Journey Sparks Cultural and Business Connections in South Africa
Pretoria, November 9, 2024. In a remarkable celebration of cultural and business ties, the Ghana High Commission in South Africa and the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) held the “Taste of Ghana and Business Exchange” event today in Pretoria. This special occasion, hosted at the residence of Her Excellency Mrs. Francisca Ashietey-Odunton, Ghana’s High Commissioner to South Africa, welcomed Wanderlust Ghana as they embark on the second leg of their ambitious 30,000km road expedition.
The journey, set to cover over 30 countries, spans from Europe to Dubai and now South Africa. The “Taste of Ghana and Business Exchange” gathered key figures in the travel and trade industries from both Ghana and South Africa, showcasing the spirit of collaboration and the cultural wealth of Ghana.
Addressing the gathering, H. E. Mrs. Francisca Ashietey-Odunton, Ghana’s High Commissioner to South Africa highlighted the deepening bond between Ghana and South Africa in the areas of solidarity, shared values and vision for mutual growth and prosperity. She stressed how the relationship has blossomed due to initiatives that promote collaboration, cultural exchange and people to people ties which has birthed a mutual visa-free regime allowing its people to freely explore and experience each other’s cultures thereby fostering tourism and business relations.
In his remarks, Mr. Akwasi Agyeman, Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Tourism Authority, emphasized Ghana’s growing appeal as a leading West African destination for South African travellers. He spotlighted Ghana’s celebrated tourism initiatives, including the renowned “Year of Return,” the booming Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Events (MICE) sector, and the highly anticipated “December in GH” festivities.
Mr. Agyeman also outlined investment opportunities for South African businesses, encouraging partnerships in sectors such as hospitality, adventure tourism, waterfront developments, and sustainable tourism technologies, which align with Ghana’s tourism growth strategy.
On their part, Wanderlust Ghana was appreciative of the collaboration with GTA and Visit Ghana brand and the warm reception and support they have received from Ghana’s missions and look forward to promoting Ghana more on the last leg of their journey.
The event also featured a delightful array of traditional Ghanaian dishes, offering guests an authentic taste of Ghana’s culinary heritage. This gathering underscored Ghana’s vibrant tourism appeal, positioning it as a gateway to West Africa and inviting South African visitors to discover its unique charm and potentials.
Other members of the Ghana Tourism delegation include Mr. Hakeem Ishmael, Ms. Miriam Brako Marfo, Ms. Veronica Amartey and Frederick Asante.
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Ghana’s National Tourism Awards Celebrates Excellence in Hospitality and Tourism
The magnificent Gardens of the historic Christiansborg Castle, Osu in Accra recently hosted the prestigious National Tourism Awards, an annual event that recognises and celebrates excellence across Ghana’s tourism and hospitality sectors. The awards ceremony, held with grandeur, brought together leaders, innovators, and key players in the industry, honouring those who have excelled in enhancing Ghana’s tourism offerings and services.
The event was graced by the distinguished Hon. Oboshie Sai-Cofie, former Minister of Tourism and Senior Presidential Advisor, who chaired the occasion with elegance. Togbe Dr. Crystal-Djirackor, Group Chairman of Crystal TV Group, attended as the Special Guest of Honour. Among the esteemed dignitaries were Hon. Andrew Egyapa Mercer (MP), Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, and his Deputy, Mark Okraku-Mantey. Sector leaders, including the Chief Director and the CEO of the Ghana Tourism Authority, Mr. Akwasi Agyeman, along with his deputies, Mr. Ekow Sampson and Mr. Ben Nsiah, as well as several heads of heads of public service agencies and trade associations, were also present, contributing to an unforgettable evening.
The night was marked by jubilant celebrations as outstanding hotels, restaurants, tour operators, and media houses were recognised for their contributions to making Ghana a leading tourism destination in Africa. The ceremony spotlighted a variety of winners across 26 categories, each of whom has set remarkable standards in their respective fields.
In the accommodation category, the luxurious Labadi Beach Hotel took the title of Best 5-Star Hotel, while The Royal Senchi Hotel & Resort was awarded Best 4-Star Hotel. Golden Bean Hotel, Sogakope Beach Resort & Spa, and GRNMA Hotel were named the Best 3-Star, 2-Star, and 1-Star Hotels, respectively, highlighting the diverse range of accommodations available across Ghana. Other hospitality winners included Brynx Haven as the Best Guesthouse, Johnass Lodge for Best Budget Hotel, De-Blays Hostel as Best Hostel, and Veronique Heights for Best Serviced Apartment.
In the culinary scene, Moka’s Restaurant, The Buka Restaurant, and Conemm Catering Service each earned titles as the Best Grade 1, Grade 2, and Grade 3 Restaurants. God is Love Chop Bar was celebrated as the Best Traditional Caterer, underscoring Ghana’s rich food heritage, while Shoprite Ghana (PTY) Ltd and King David Spot won awards in the Fast Food and Drinking Bar categories. In the vibrant nightlife space, Exhale Lounge was awarded Best Night Club/Pub.
For travel and tourism services, Satguru Travel & Tours was celebrated as Best Travel Agency, while Nii Plants Car Rentals took the award for Best Car Rental Service. Ashanti African Tours was awarded Tour Operator of the Year, commending their exceptional service in providing unforgettable travel experiences across Ghana. The event also recognized Mr. Fuseni Nawaru as Tour Guide of the Year and Justice Brobbey as Site Guide of the Year, both of whom have contributed immensely to enhancing visitor experiences in Ghana.
Highlighting some of Ghana’s top visitor attractions, Bisa Aberwa Museum was named Visitor Attraction of the Year, providing a window into Ghanaian art and heritage. The Digital Tourism Icon award went to comedian SDK DELE, for his role in promoting tourism through digital channels, while Citi FM/Channel One TV was celebrated as Tourism Oriented Media for their dedication to showcasing Ghana’s tourism on air and online.
In recognition of sustainable tourism practices, Eusbett Hotel received the Sustainability Award, demonstrating the industry’s commitment to eco-friendly practices.
Among the evening’s distinguished awards were honorary recognitions for individuals who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, long-standing dedication, and visionary achievements.
Amongst the winners were:
- Long-standing Commitment to Quality Events Service: Madam Afi Amoro, CEO of Jandel LTD, was celebrated for her dedication to elevating event standards in Ghana through quality services that have enhanced the tourism and hospitality landscape.
- Long-standing Commitment to Promoting Tourism through Advertising: Mrs. Norkor Dua, CEO of Mullen Lowe Ghana, was recognized for her invaluable role in using advertising to spotlight Ghana’s tourism potential and attract visitors worldwide.
- Outstanding Leadership in Tourism Development: Nana Effah Guakro IV, Chief of Kyeremankoma, Kintampo, and Kronkor Hene of Nkoranza, received this honour for his commitment to advancing tourism development within his region, enriching Ghana’s cultural and heritage tourism.
- Traditional Leadership and Cultural Preservation: Masaaba Sariki Fayinama III, Acting President of the National Council of Zongo Chiefs and President of the National Council of Wangara Chiefs, was honoured for his dedication to preserving Ghana’s diverse cultural heritage, particularly within traditional communities.
- Outstanding Contributions to Diaspora Engagement: Rabbi Kohain Nathanyah Helevi, Executive Director of the PANAFEST Secretariat, was celebrated for his impactful work in fostering connections between Ghana and the African diaspora, strengthening cultural ties and heritage exchange.
- Outstanding Contributions to Promoting Tourism through Events: Mrs. Theresa Ayoade, CEO of Charter House, was awarded for her visionary leadership in organizing tourism-driven events that have positioned Ghana as a hub for entertainment and cultural experiences.
- Outstanding Events Visionary: Kennedy Agyapong Jr., of Afrofuture, received this award for his forward-thinking approach to creating events that celebrate African identity and attract global audiences, amplifying Ghana’s tourism appeal.
- Woman of Excellence in Public Service: Mrs. Bridget Katsriku, Former Chief Director at the Ministry of Tourism, was recognized for her dedicated service and leadership, which have paved the way for advancements in Ghana’s tourism sector.
These honorary awards underscore the National Tourism Awards’ commitment to acknowledging leaders who drive growth and excellence within Ghana’s tourism industry. Congratulations to all honorees for their contributions to promoting Ghana’s rich heritage and vibrant tourism sector!
The National Tourism Awards is an initiative by the Ghana Tourism Authority to recognize the commitment of individuals, businesses, and organizations that have contributed significantly to Ghana’s tourism sector. This year’s winners reflect the exceptional standards that Ghana’s tourism industry upholds, contributing to its growth and international appeal.
This celebratory night served as a reminder of Ghana’s commitment to elevating its tourism industry and positioned the country as a must-visit destination in Africa. Congratulations to all the winners for their hard work, dedication, and excellence!
Ghana Tourism Authority Honoured at GOGE Africa Festival for “The Year of Return”
The Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) has been celebrated with the Outstanding Tourism Event in Africa award for its transformative “Year of Return” and “Beyond the Return” initiatives at the 25th GOGE Africa Festival in Lagos, Nigeria.
The prestigious award was presented on October 27, 2024, at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena (Onikan Stadium). Accepting on behalf of GTA CEO, Mr. Akwasi Agyeman, were Mr. Moses Ndewin Ndebugri, Director of the Upper West Region, and Mr. Kofi Atta Kakra Kusi, Deputy Director of Domestic Marketing.
This recognition celebrates the impact of Ghana’s initiatives, which have spotlighted African heritage, connected the diaspora, and established Ghana as a leading cultural tourism destination. Through these programs, Ghana has strengthened global cultural ties and fostered pan-African unity.
The GOGE Africa Festival, themed Symphony of Cultures, drew over 20,000 attendees from 32 countries, celebrating African heritage through exhibitions, parades, music, dance, and culinary arts. This year’s highlight, Our Shared Heritage, underscored the cultural unity shared across Africa.
Mr. Kusi spoke on Nigeria’s strategic significance as Africa’s largest market and shared plans for intensifying Ghana’s tourism marketing efforts. He expressed appreciation for the GTA leadership and stakeholders for their dedication to advancing Ghana’s tourism.
Festival Founders Mr. Isaac Moses and Mrs. Nneka Moses applauded Ghana’s commitment to promoting Africa through the “Beyond the Return” initiative, which expands on the success of the “Year of Return.” This landmark initiative brought over 1.18 million visitors in 2019, while “Beyond the Return” continues under GTA’s leadership, with a focus on fostering lasting cultural and economic partnerships across its seven strategic pillars.
GTA GEARS UP FOR THE NATIONAL TOURISM AWARDS
Accra, Ghana, 10th October 2024 – The Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) is set to organize the National Tourism Awards to reward excellence in the tourism sector.
Under the auspices of the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture, the awards ceremony is scheduled to be held on Friday, 25th October 2024, at the Osu Castle.
Prior to this, the regional offices of the Ghana Tourism Authority have organized the Regional Tourism Awards from Friday, September 13, to Saturday, September 28, 2024.
The National Tourism Awards aim to celebrate and recognize individuals and organizations in the tourism sector for demonstrating excellence and to encourage a stronger rebound of tourism in Ghana. This year’s theme is “CELEBRATING INNOVATION AND RECOGNISING EXCELLENCE IN GHANA’S TOURISM SECTOR.”
A total of 38 awards, comprising 29 Competitive Awards, 7 Honorary Awards, and 2 Special Mention Awards, will be presented to deserving tourism establishments and personalities. The Competitive Awards include Accommodation Services, Catering Services, Travel Services, Media, Events, and Corporate Organisations of the Year.
The Honorary Award is based on special recognition for outstanding contributions to the tourism industry in Ghana.
Established in 1997, the National Tourism Awards aim to acknowledge and reward industry players and stakeholders who have contributed immensely to the development of the tourism industry in Ghana. The awards also aim to set the tone for high standards in service delivery among practitioners in the tourism industry, rewarding excellent performance, raising standards, encouraging healthy competition among industry players, and firmly positioning tourism as a vibrant economic sector while consolidating Ghana’s position as a preferred tourist destination.
About 350 guests, including seasoned practitioners and industry players in the tourism value chain such as hotels, travel and tour agencies, and car rental services, have been invited to the event.
Other dignitaries who will grace the occasion include Ministers of State, Members of Parliament, the Diplomatic Community, Heads of Ministries, Departments and Agencies, and the Business Community.
ISSUED BY THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS DEPARTMENT
WORLD TOURISM DAY 2024 – TOURISM AND PEACE
Under the auspices of the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, the Ghana Tourism Authority is excited to announce the highly anticipated activities for the 2024 World Tourism Day, set to take place from September 27th to 29th in Sekondi, Western Region.
World Tourism Day, celebrated annually on September 27th, aims to raise global awareness about the importance of tourism and its social, cultural, political, and economic value. This year’s theme, “Tourism and Peace”, emphasizes tourism’s role as a catalyst for peace and understanding, highlighting the relationship between tourism, cultural exchange, and conflict resolution. The 2024 celebration will also focus on the transformative power of sustainable tourism in creating jobs, fostering inclusion, and strengthening local economies.
Key activities for the 2024 World Tourism Day celebration include:
Friday, 27th September
Seminar on Tourism and Peace
Time: 8:30 AM
Venue: Sekondi Youth Hall
Unveiling of Music ‘Wall of Fame’
Time: 4:00 PM
Venue: Duawusu
Saturday, 28th September
Cleanup Exercise
Time: 7:00 AM
Area: Sekondi Market Area
Musical Concert
Time: 8:00 PM
Venue: Sekondi Street
Sunday, 29th September
Church Service
Time: 9:00 AM
Venue: St. Andrews Anglican Church
Football Match
Time: 2:00 PM
Venue: Methodist Astro Turf Park
World Tourism Day was established by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (now UN Tourism) in September 1979, with the first celebration in 1980. The date, September 27th, marks the anniversary of the adoption of the UNWTO Statutes in 1970, a significant milestone in global tourism.
ISSUED BY THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS DEPARTMENT
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