By Hafsa Obeng/Emelia Nkrumah
Accra, Oct. 29, GNA – The Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) has honoured 36 individuals and institutions at the 2024 National Tourism Awards.
The award on the theme: “Celebrating innovation and recognising excellence in Ghana’s tourism sector”, recognised industry players who have shown exceptional commitment and innovation, and contributed to the vibrant resurgence of Ghana’s tourism sector.
The awards included 26 competitive categories, eight honorary recognitions, and two special awards. Winners in the respective categories were presented with a plaque and a citation.
The event underscored GTA’s commitment to fostering innovation and excellence in Ghana’s tourism sector, aiming to boost the industry’s post-pandemic recovery and highlight efforts that are positioning Ghana as a preferred travel destination.
Speaking at the event, Mr Andrew Egyapa Mercer, Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, said the award highlighted the dedication and hard work of individuals and organizations who have contributed significantly to national tourism development.
He stated that over the years the Ministry had implemented various initiatives to accelerate growth in the sector and boost the economy.
He noted that there was a need for collaboration to promote tourism development and create opportunities for economic growth and job creation.
“In 2023, international arrivals reached 1,148,002, showing a 25 per cent increase from 2022, and a 2 per cent rise above pre-COVID figures. Domestic numbers have also increased from 945,405 in 2022 to 1,407,709 in 2023,” he said.
Mr Egyapa Mercer said “As we are all aware, tourism is a vital pillar of our economy, with immense potential to drive job creation, attract investments, generate foreign exchange, and catalyse socio-economic transformation,” he said.
He said the Ministry plans to build on the gains by enhancing engagement with the diaspora market, actively promote Ghana in the sub-region and African markets as well as establish the country as a competitive destination for meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions.
Mr Akwasi Agyeman, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of GTA, said innovation was central to Ghana’s progress in the tourism sector and encouraged stakeholders to keep generating innovative ideas and projects to drive further growth.
“We have seen transformative changes in our tourism infrastructure with new digital platforms enhancing visitor experience and our heritage sites being preserved and showcased in ingenious ways,” he said.
He encouraged industry players to continue to innovate and collaborate. By working together, we ensure Ghana remains a top destination for tourists around the world,” he added.
Some of the award winners include Labadi Beach Hotel- Greater Accra, which won 5 Star Hotel of the Year, The Royal Senchi Hotel- Eastern Region, 4 Star Hotel of the Year, Golden Bean Hotel, 3 Star Hotel, Sogakope Beach Resort- Volta Region, 2 Star Hotel, and GRNMA Hotel-Central Region, 1 Star Hotel.
The Guest House for the year was awarded to Brynx Haven-Central Region, Budget Hote, Johnass Lodge – Upper East, Hostel, De-Blays – Tema, and Service Apartment, Veronique Heights – Ashanti Region.
Others are Fast Food Establishment, Shop Rites Ghana- Western Region, Drinking Bar, King David Spot- Northern Region, Night Club/Pub, Exhale Lounge – Greater Accra, Offshore / Arline, and Servair Ghana Company Ltd.
Tour operator of the year went to Ashanti African Tours – Central Region, Travel Agency, Satguru Travel and Tours- Greater Accra, Car Rental, Nii Plants Car Rentals, Tour Guide, Mr Fuseni Nawaru- Eastern Region, Site Guide, Justice Brobbey, Visitor Attraction, Bisa Aberwa Museum- Western Region.
The Digital Tourism Icon went to SDK DELE- Greater Accra, Tourism Oriented Media, Citi Fm/Channel One TV.
GNA