By Hafsa Obeng
Accra, Jan. 06, GNA – The Ministry of Tourism Arts and Culture, in collaboration with the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) and Korle Klottey Municipal Assembly, has commissioned the first phase of the redeveloped Geese Park into the Accra Recreation and Leisure Park, in Accra.
The Park is an add on to the green spaces in Accra and would serve as a pivotal link in the growing network of recreational spaces, seamlessly connecting with the beloved Atta Mills Asomdwe Park.
Mr Andrew Egyapa Mercer, Minister of Tourism Arts and Culture, said the commissioning of the park marked a significant stride in their efforts to enhance Ghana’s tourism landscape and create vibrant spaces for recreation and leisure.
He said recreation and green spaces were extremely important as they serve as the backbone of a thriving urban environment and provide residents and visitors with a place to relax, exercise and connect with nature, contributing to improved physical and mental health.
Mr Egyapa Mercer said green spaces were not merely aesthetic additions to the cities but essential for the well-being of communities and the overall health of the nation.
“These spaces also foster social cohesion and bring people together for communal activities. For Ghana, this is a strategic move to bolster the tourism sector as tourists today seek destinations that offer unique and enriching experiences and well-maintained parks, and recreational areas are a significant draw.”
The sector minister said investing in such spaces would not only enhance the quality of life for citizens but also attract visitors who contributed to the growth of the tourism industry.
“As we strive to create a balance between urbanization and environmental preservation, projects like this serve as a model for future initiatives. They ensure that our cities remain livable, and our natural heritage is preserved for generations to come.”
He commended the GTA and the Municipal Assembly for the hard work, dedication, and efforts to transform the Geese Park into a beacon of recreation and leisure and assured them that the renovation of the park was just the beginning.
“We must continue to identify and develop more green spaces across the country, creating a network of recreational areas that will enrich the lives of our people and innovate Ghana as a premier tourist destination.”
Mr Akwesi Agyeman, Chief Executive Officer, GTA, said the park had an array of exciting facilities designed to cater for all ages and interests.
“It has a mini zoo that fosters appreciation of wildlife, a skating park, children’s eco-park, a serene fishpond, an event space, a restaurant and a snack bar.”
He said the park would be a great addition to the existing landmarks, including the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park, the Nationalism Park, the Asmodee Park and the Heroes Park which will also be at the Marine Drive, and together they would add and enhance the tapestry of tourism in the capital.
“This initiative is more than just a park. We are looking at a vibrant engaging community space that embodies the essence of Ghanaian hospitality.”
Mr Agyeman said after commissioning the Park, it would remain closed until the middle of January, when it will be formally opened to the public.
Nii Adjei Tawiah, Municipal Chief Executive, Korle Klottey Municipal Assembly, commended the GTA for collaborating with the Assembly and other stakeholders to renovate such places to brighten up Accra.
“It is a good legacy to be associated with. I thank the Almighty God for what we have been able to do together. If our relationship is to be replicated in other municipalities, it will make everywhere look like what we are seeing here.”
GNA