Vice President of the Republic of Ghana, Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, has tasked the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts to intensify efforts to promote Ghanaian culture and tourist attractions beyond the country’s borders as a strategic way of generating revenue and boosting national development.
Speaking at a roundtable discussion during a working visit to the Ministry, the Vice President stressed the need for a deliberate and coordinated approach to showcasing Ghana’s rich cultural heritage, including traditional attire, local cuisine, languages, festivals, music, and historic landmarks, to the international community.
Professor Opoku-Agyemang observed that despite Ghana’s cultural diversity and historical significance, many Ghanaian dishes, traditions, and tourist sites remain largely unknown to the global audience.
She noted that Ghana is home to over 60 forts and castles in various shapes and forms across the country, which, if properly branded and promoted, could significantly increase tourist arrivals and foreign exchange earnings.
“These forts and historical sites tell powerful stories about our past and identity. With the right promotion and investment, they can become major tourism magnets,” she said.
The Vice President commended the Ministry, under the leadership of Hon. Abla Dzifa Gomashie, for initiatives such as the Black Star Experience, which aims to position Ghana as the gateway to Africa and celebrate the country’s cultural excellence. She described the initiative as a step in the right direction and encouraged the Ministry to build on its successes.
Professor Opoku-Agyemang further urged the Ministry to intensify public education on local dishes and culinary traditions, emphasizing that promoting Ghanaian foods both locally and internationally would not only preserve cultural identity but also create opportunities for entrepreneurs in the food and hospitality value chain.
She reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting policies and programmes that harness culture, tourism, and the creative arts as key drivers of economic growth, job creation, and national pride.
Story by: George Osei-Akoto Addae (Teacher Kojo) #ahotoronline.com/oseiakotor1@gmail.com