The Upper East Regional Office of the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) marked this year’s World Tourism Day with a strong focus on heritage and sustainability, hosting a commemorative event at the iconic Bongo Caves and Rocks.
The short ceremony brought together a cross-section of stakeholders, including the Paramount Chief of the Bongo Traditional Area, Naba Baba Salifu Lemyaarum; the District Chief Executive (DCE) for Bongo; leaders of the Hotels Association; students; youth groups; and tourism enthusiasts.
In a welcome address, the Paramount Chief expressed deep appreciation to the GTA for selecting the historic site to commemorate such an important occasion on the global tourism calendar. He reaffirmed his readiness to partner with the Authority and relevant stakeholders to develop and promote tourism within his traditional area, highlighting the cultural significance of the location.
A statement delivered on behalf of the Regional Director of the GTA, Mr. Wisdom Ahadzi, explained the rationale behind choosing the Bongo site. The selection, he noted, was in direct alignment with the global theme for this year’s celebration: “Tourism and Sustainable Transformation.”
Mr. Ahadzi emphasized that the Bongo District holds a special place in his heart due to its wealth of untapped attractions. He expressed his commitment to collaborating with partners to bring the area’s hidden tourism potential into the national spotlight.
Echoing this sentiment, District Chief Executive Akaseke Joseph Abaa highlighted the wider economic significance of tourism and expressed optimism about its potential to drive development. He noted that with the right investments and proper measures, the district’s sites could become major contributors to local growth and job creation.
Symbolizing the commitment to sustainability, the main event concluded with a tree-planting exercise, serving as a living memento of the occasion.
The ceremony ended with an immersive tour and a hiking expedition up the historic rock mountain, giving participants firsthand experience of the unique geological and cultural heritage the area has to offer.
Source: A1Radioonline.com|101.1 MHz|Moses Apiah|Bolgatanga
