By Hafsa Obeng
Accra, Aug. 23, GNA – The Ghana Heritage Conservation Trust (GHCT) on Thursday launched the GHCT Strategic Plan and GHCT Fund as part of efforts to conserve, preserve, and promote Ghana’s natural, cultural, and historic heritage.
The GHCT strategic plan lays out a road map for improving and managing the Central Region’s natural, cultural, and historic environmental potential, while the GHCT fund would support conservation efforts and community development projects.
Mr. Andrew Egyapa-Mercer, Minister of Tourism, Arts, and Culture, who launched the initiatives in Accra, said the government was committed to preserving Ghana’s rich cultural heritage, particularly the forests, historic forts, and castles, which are valuable testaments to the country’s history and resilience.
He said that those sites not only illustrate Ghana’s rich history, but also resonate with the stories of forebears.
“They remind us of the struggles, trials and heritage that have shaped our national identity,” he said.
The Minister said the government had allocated $12.6 million for emergency conservation measures in 2024, as well as $126 million over the next five years for forest and castle preservation, as authorized by cabinet.
He said the unprecedented commitment demonstrates governments’ grasp of the importance of those monuments, not just to the nation but to the entire world.
“With a proactive approach of providing funding, we are hoping that we can safeguard these sites and reinforce our dedication to the implementation on the operational guidelines under the World Heritage Convention.
“To achieve these goals, we have already begun critical actions for the receipt of the commencement certificate of restoration. We are engaging structural engineers, architects, world heritage experts, and archaeologists to ensure the highest standards in our conservation efforts,” he said.
Mr. Egyapa-Mercer urged stakeholders to work together to address the emergency challenges threatening those important cultural landmarks and to ensure the strategic plan’s successful implementation.
“Our heritage defines us, and its preservation will be a collective responsibility of all of us. Let us work hand in hand to ensure that our forts and castles and various forests, survive and thrive as key components of our national identity and tourist attractions,” he said.
Prof. Edward Marfo-Yiadom, Chairman of the GHCT Board of Trustees, said the five-year strategic plan, which is based on a comprehensive analysis of the challenges and opportunities facing Ghana’s heritage sector, outlines the priorities and goals for preserving and promoting the country’s natural, cultural, and historic heritage.
He said the plan represents the GHCT’s commitment to working with government agencies, civil society organizations, communities, and stakeholders, as well as outlining their aims and objectives and strategies for achieving them.
Prof. Marfo-Yiadom explained that the plan was based on seven main areas: consultation, education and outreach, sustainable tourism, research documentation and publication, business development, sustainable financial management, and governance management and administration.
He also described the plan as a comprehensive roadmap that encapsulates Ghana’s unwavering commitment to protecting and developing its rich cultural, ecological, and historical assets.
“The plan embodies the vision and aspirations to foster sustainable development, community empowerment and environmental stewardship, ensuring that the legacy of Ghana’s heritage endures for generations to come,” he said.
Mrs Theresa Ayoade, a Trustee, said the plan was not just a document, but a collective vision that reflects shared values, aspirations, and commitment to excellence.
“It is the result of countless hours of deliberation, collaboration, thoughtful discussions and a deep understanding of the challenges and the opportunities that lie ahead. It is also not merely a guide for our leadership, but a call to action.”
GNA