The Upper East Regional Director of the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA), Wisdom Ahadzi, has reiterated the critical role of tourism in promoting the region and outlined steps being taken to build a resilient tourism industry.
Speaking on A1 Radio, Mr. Ahadzi shared insights on how the region can enhance its tourism sector, highlighting the office’s recent engagement with the new Regional Minister, Donatus Akamugri. During the meeting, a proposal aimed at improving tourism in the region was presented.
The GTA Director noted that his office had been preparing proposals and sought to take advantage of platforms such as the upcoming Citi FM Heritage Caravan. According to him, such events provide valuable opportunities to showcase the region to a broader audience. “It’s a platform we believe we can leverage, considering the caliber of people who usually participate in the caravan.”
The proposal presented to the Minister, he said, focused on the importance of collaboration with Municipal and District Chief Executives (MDCEs) to develop the tourism sector. Mr. Ahadzi emphasized that without their support, tourism development efforts may not achieve the desired results. He suggested that before new MDCEs are appointed, there should be a concerted effort to sensitize and build their capacity to integrate tourism into their developmental goals. Tourism, he noted, has the potential to generate more Internally Generated Funds (IGF), a key resource that many local governments often struggle to secure.
“So we are of the view that before the new MDCEs are appointed, there’s a need for sensitization and capacity building to ensure that tourism is incorporated into their developmental goals, as it has the potential to generate IGF, which many of them struggle to mobilize.”
The proposal also touched on the need for improved infrastructure, particularly road networks, to enhance accessibility to tourist destinations. Mr. Ahadzi further stressed the importance of having an airport in the region, which would significantly boost tourism and connectivity. “Infrastructure, especially road networks, is key. We also reiterated the need for an airport in the region,” he stated.
Additionally, he noted that security concerns in the region remain a key factor and were highlighted in their proposal. Mr. Ahadzi expressed optimism that with the support of regional leadership and the active involvement of local government officials, the Upper East Region could realize its full potential as a tourism destination. “With the Regional Minister’s awareness and leadership, if he ensures that MDCEs prioritize tourism from the onset, we believe we will make significant progress.”
Source: A1Radioonline.Com | 101.1MHZ | Gifty Eyram Kudiabor | Bolgatanga
