The Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) has launched the Ghana Tourism Report 2024 at the Accra Tourist Information Centre (ATIC).

The July 3 event was under the theme, “Growth and Sustainability.”

It brought together stakeholders from the tourism industry, government officials, and other key players to discuss the sector's progress and future plans.

In her address, Acting CEO of GTA, Maame Efua Houadjeto, stressed the report's importance in showcasing the sector's achievements and challenges.

She noted that despite global and regional economic pressures, Ghana's tourism sector maintained strong growth in 2024, marked by a significant rise in international arrivals, increased domestic tourism, and continued diversification of offerings.

Madam Houadjeto credited the sector's success to targeted marketing campaigns, strategic partnerships, and enhanced digital platforms, particularly the "See Ghana, Eat Ghana, Wear Ghana, Feel Ghana" campaign. She also highlighted the authority’s efforts to strengthen private-sector collaboration, invest in training and certification, and improve regulatory compliance.

“Tourism continues to serve as a powerful tool for economic transformation, social cohesion, and national branding.

“The 2024 Tourism Report is a product of diligent research, data collection, and stakeholder collaboration, and it captures the full breadth of our achievements, lessons learned, and the opportunities that lie ahead,” she said.

In a keynote address, Deputy Minister of Tourism, Culture, and Creative Arts, Yussif Issaka Jajah, stressed the importance of data-driven decision-making. He described the report as “a mirror reflecting the sector's progress, pinpointing challenges, and guiding strategic decisions.”

Jajah highlighted tourism’s potential to create jobs, attract investment, and strengthen cultural identity. He also revealed that the ministry, alongside stakeholders, is refining the National Tourism Development Plan to further boost the sector.

“The sector's development is a shared responsibility, and the Ministry is calling on local government, traditional authorities, industry leaders, and every Ghanaian to see themselves as custodians of Ghana's culture and heritage and ambassadors,” he said.

The report noted a 19% increase in domestic visits compared to 2023, totaling 1.68 million. Popular destinations included the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park, Kakum National Park, and Bunso Arboretum.

The Ghana Tourism Report 2024 provides a comprehensive overview of the sector’s progress, challenges, and future opportunities, serving as a vital resource for policymakers and industry players.