Ghana has taken commendable steps in attracting potential investors into the country through tourism, however, the state of the country's surroundings does not measure up to marketable standards. The poor state of sanitation in Ghana is barely recognised by its citizens as an issue, capable of deterring foreign investors from settling in the country.

Filth piles, choked gutters, unauthorised disposal of unused kiosks, construction debris, all on street shoulders, are common sights Ghanaians have grown accustomed to.

Due to this familiarity, not much urgency has been attached to resolving this matter. What Ghanaians fail to acknowledge is that prospective investors who visit the country are usually not familiar with these deplorable living conditions, hence, may search for alternative countries with better conditions of living to invest in.

The government, like a good number of citizens, seems to overly rely on the hospitable nature of Ghanaians along with the country's long-standing reputation of political stability, as enough bait to attract and sustain investors.

We do not realise the existence of keen competition between Ghana and all other countries bidding for investor opportunities for their country.

If Ghana wants to rank highly in tourism and investment, the government must, among other changes, elevate its sanitation standards to rival international ones. Since educational campaigns on keeping Ghana clean run in the past fell on deaf ears, steps must be taken to pass and enforce stringent laws against littering, given the recalcitrance of many Ghanaians.

Through legislative measures and dedication, the country's goals of promoting tourism, trade, and investment will yield results that complement the efforts of the government.