The leadership of the Ghana Tourism Federation (GHATOF), led by its President, Seth Ocran, paid a courtesy call on the Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah, at the Office of the President.

Speaking on behalf of the Ghana Tourism Federation, Mr. Ocran formally introduced GHATOF’s National Executives, members of its Governing Council, leaders of its various Trade Associations, and the thousands of operators across Ghana’s tourism and hospitality value chain represented by the Federation.

He reaffirmed GHATOF’s mandate as the umbrella body for private sector tourism operators in Ghana, spanning accommodation, travel and tour services, car rentals, restaurants, event management, attractions, and allied services.

The visit underscored the Federation’s commitment to strengthening public-private collaboration in positioning tourism as a strategic pillar of national development

GHATOF commended the government for recent macroeconomic gains that are gradually restoring confidence in the business environment. In particular, the Federation acknowledged:

• The reduction in inflation
• The gradual decline in interest rates
• The relative stability of the exchange rate
• The rehabilitation and construction of major roads across the country

According to the Federation, these measures are creating a stronger enabling environment for tourism and hospitality businesses to grow, invest, and plan with greater certainty. Improved road infrastructure, in particular, enhances accessibility to key tourist destinations and regional attractions.

While acknowledging progress, GHATOF highlighted critical structural challenges that require urgent attention.

1. Weak Regulatory Regime

The Federation expressed concern about regulatory lapses, particularly within the car rental sub-sector. It said illegal operators continue to use private vehicles for commercial rentals without proper licensing, insurance coverage, or tax compliance.

This situation, they said, undermines legitimate businesses that comply with regulations and deprives the government of significant revenue. GHATOF, therefore called for stronger enforcement mechanisms and harmonised regulation to sanitise the sector.

2. Absence of a Small Business Administration (SBA)

Tourism in Ghana is largely driven by Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). However, many operators lack structured support in bookkeeping, record-keeping, compliance management, and access to government contracts and financing.

GHATOF emphasised the need for a dedicated Small Business Administration framework or targeted SME support structure to enhance formalisation, financial literacy, and business sustainability within the sector.

3. High Utility Costs

Energy and water tariffs remain a major cost driver for hotels and hospitality establishments. High utility costs increase operational expenses and make Ghana comparatively expensive as a tourism destination within the sub-region.

The Federation proposed stakeholder dialogue on sector-specific tariff considerations or efficiency incentives to improve competitiveness.

4. Unstructured Regulatory Requirements

Multiple agencies with overlapping compliance mandates create inefficiencies, duplication, and additional financial burdens for tourism operators.

GHATOF called for regulatory harmonisation and a streamlined compliance framework to reduce administrative bottlenecks and improve ease of doing business in the sector.

The Federation also presented forward-looking initiatives aimed at transforming Ghana’s tourism ecosystem.

National Training & Certification Programme

GHATOF proposed the development of standardised training modules across tourism institutions, alongside a comprehensive data collection system and workforce certification framework.

The objective is to improve service quality, professionalise the industry, and enhance Ghana’s global competitiveness as a tourism destination. The Federation is seeking both financial and institutional support to implement this nationwide programme.

Chop Bar Redesign & Modernisation Initiative

Recognising the cultural and economic significance of Ghana’s traditional eateries, GHATOF outlined plans to upgrade chop bar facilities to meet modern hygiene, safety, and environmental standards—while preserving authentic Ghanaian culinary identity.

This initiative aims to formalise indigenous food enterprises and elevate them as viable tourism assets.

Independence Renaissance Festival

GHATOF further proposed the establishment of an annual national tourism festival marking the 70^th Anniversary of Ghana's Independence and beyond, the Independence Renaissance Festival, anchored on the theme: “Eat Ghana, Wear Ghana, Drink Ghana, Dance Ghana.”

The festival is envisioned as a flagship domestic tourism event designed to stimulate local consumption, celebrate Ghanaian culture, and attract international visitors through curated experiences in cuisine, fashion, music, arts, and heritage.

Conclusion: A Call for Strategic Collaboration

In concluding remarks, the Federation emphasised that tourism remains one of Ghana’s most powerful economic drivers, with strong linkages to transport, agriculture, creative arts, and SMEs.

With stronger regulation, structured SME support systems, and deepened public-private collaboration, Ghana can fully leverage opportunities under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and position itself as a leading tourism hub in Africa.

GHATOF respectfully sought closer collaboration with the Office of the Chief of Staff to address these priorities and to jointly advance policies that will unlock the full potential of Ghana’s tourism and hospitality sector.

The courtesy call reaffirmed a shared commitment between government and industry to build a resilient, competitive, and globally recognised tourism destination for Ghana.