By Hafsa Obeng
Accra, March 1, GNA – As Ghana celebrates the Heritage Month in March, a series of activities have been lined up by the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) to engage the citizens, showcase local products, and promote the rich culture that makes the country unique.
This year marks a significant milestone as Ghana commemorates her 68th independence, which will celebrate everything Ghanaian; from food to fashion, tourism, culture and creative arts.
Mr Kofi Atta Kakra Kusi, the Deputy Director, Domestic Marketing, GTA, in an interview with the Ghana News Agency on Friday, mentioned the comprehensive marketing and communications strategy across all platforms to highlight the importance of supporting local products and participating in all the programmes.
“It is time to ‘See Ghana, Eat Ghana Wear Ghana and Feel Ghana’ as these initiatives are designed to encourage Ghanaians to engage with their culture in a tangible way,” he said.
On March 14, the excitement would peak with the “Taste 68 at 68 Food Fair”, an extraordinary event that brings together 68 varieties of Ghanaian cuisine to celebrate this year’s independence.
“This event will take place at the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park, a fitting location given its significance in Ghana’s history, as the park that honours the country’s first President and the architect of Ghana’s independence,” Mr Kusi said.
A diverse array of dishes, ranging from the traditional jollof rice and fufu to regional specialties from the south, north, east, and west of the country.
He noted that the event was not just about the food, but a celebration of the health benefits of Ghanaian cuisine.
“Many local dishes are packed with nutrients that promote good health, and the food fair would emphasise their importance in the daily lives of Ghanaians,” Mr Kusi said.
“We are proud of the diversity of our foods. Our foods have a lot to offer, not just in flavour but also in their positive impact on our health. This year, we are highlighting 68 different dishes because each one is a part of who we are as a nation.”
Exhibitions of local products, including music, clothing, and crafts, which are part of the campaign, would also be featured.
“This is a chance to support the local artisans and businesses that contribute to the vibrancy of the country’s cultural landscape.”
Mr Kusi mentioned the strong push to encourage domestic tourism since Ghana was blessed with a lot of attractions, and Ghanaians must embrace the opportunity to explore and connect with their heritage.
“There are countless beautiful sites and rich cultural landmarks in Ghana, and we must fully appreciate them. From the historic Cape Coast Castle to the scenic Kakum National Park, and the cultural heritage of the Ashanti Kingdom, there is so much to explore.”
He hinted of the GTA’s liaising with the Tour Operators Union and Tour Guides Association of Ghana to create affordable packages to attract patronge, regardless of the background or income of the visitor.
“Our aim is to ensure that domestic tourism is accessible to the average Ghanaian. We want everyone to experience the magic of our tourist destinations, no matter where they are in the country.”
The Ghana Month would also coincide with Pan African Month, as part of the ‘Black Star Experience’, which is government’s flagship programme aimed at establishing Ghana as the gateway to Africa for the global diaspora.
“The GTA’s regional offices will also engage in rigorous marketing efforts in this regard. It will give people in the regions the opportunity to experience and engage with the local culture and products from across Ghana,” the Deputy Director said.
“We are committed to showcasing the different local products and services made right here in Ghana, and our regional offices will be central to this effort.”
He mentioned the Ceejay Multimedia for the Akwaaba Festival, Channel One TV / Citi FM Heritage Caravan, among others, as campaign partners.
He urged Ghanaians to celebrate the rich heritage that had shaped the nation and invest in their own economy by supporting local businesses and tourism.
GNA