The recently concluded 2 days National Economic Dialogue provided an important platform for stakeholders to deliberate on strategies to revitalize Ghana’s economy. However, it is unfortunate that the final communiqué failed to make any concrete recommendations on leveraging tourism development as a key driver of sustainable jobs and economic growth. This omission is a significant oversight, considering the immense potential of the tourism sector to contribute to Ghana’s development agenda. Indeed leveraging tourism development for sustainable growth is a low hanging fruit.

Nevertheless, it is not too late because according to Prof. John Gatsi, the Chairman of NED, the team is preparing a comprehensive report to be submitted to the President for implementation. It is my hope that in the final report, tourism development will find a space. Tourism is should be the game-changer and a driver for the government's much touted 24 hour economy.

Tourism is a proven catalyst for sustainable economic growth: Tourism is one of the fastest-growing industries globally, contributing significantly to GDP, employment, and foreign exchange earnings in many economies. Countries such as Kenya, South Africa, and Rwanda have successfully positioned their tourism sectors as pillars of economic transformation. The City of New Orleans in the United States of America, attracts about 20 million tourists annually generating over 10 billion dollars in tourists spending.

Ghana, with its rich cultural heritage, historical sites, and natural attractions, is well-positioned to build wealth around tourism. Yet, despite its potential, the tourism sector in Ghana remains underdeveloped and underfunded. Thus, if the government fails to emphasize tourism in its agenda, it will miss an opportunity to champion a sector that can provide sustainable livelihoods for millions of Ghanaians.

Job creation and sustainable employment: One of the biggest challenges Ghana faces is unemployment, particularly among the youth. Tourism is a labour-intensive industry that can create jobs across multiple sectors, including hospitality, transport, entertainment, and crafts. From tour guides and hotel staff to artisans and entrepreneurs, the sector provides diverse employment opportunities, many of which require minimal formal education but contribute meaningfully to the economy.

By prioritizing tourism, the government can foster inclusive economic growth, ensuring that both urban and rural communities benefit. Countries like Egypt and Morocco have demonstrated how strategic investments in tourism can lead to job creation on a large scale. Ghana must learn from these examples.

Boosting foreign exchange earnings and investment: Tourism is a major foreign exchange earner for many economies. Ghana’s historical ties to the African diaspora, particularly through sites like Cape Coast Castle, Elmina Castle, Salaga Slave Market, Assin Manso Slave River among others make it a prime destination for heritage tourism. Events such as PANAFEST, the “Year of Return” and “Beyond the Return” have already showcased the country’s ability to attract international visitors. However, without sustained investment and a clear policy framework, Ghana risks losing out on the economic benefits of tourism.

Government policies should incentivize private sector investment in tourism infrastructure, including hotels, transportation, and digital platforms that enhance visitor experiences. Additionally, reducing bureaucratic barriers for investors and improving security and sanitation in tourist destinations will enhance Ghana’s competitiveness as a preferred travel destination.

A tool for sustainable development: Tourism development aligns with Ghana’s sustainable development goals (SDGs), particularly in poverty reduction, gender equality, decent work and economic growth and environmental conservation. Responsible tourism can empower local communities by providing alternative livelihoods while preserving cultural and natural resources. Ecotourism, for example, can be harnessed to protect biodiversity and forests from illegal gold mining while generating revenue for conservation and community development.

The way forward: Government must integrate tourism into its economic recovery and growth strategies. This includes:

1. Developing a comprehensive tourism policy that prioritizes infrastructure development, marketing, and capacity building.
2. Increasing budgetary allocation to the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture to support destination branding and product development.
3. Enhancing public-private partnerships to attract investment in hotels, transportation, and digital innovation in the tourism space.
4. Leveraging technology and digital marketing to promote Ghana as a premier travel destination globally.
5. Improving visa policies to attract more international visitors, especially from Africa and the diaspora. For instance, a friend in the United States had discussed with me in the past the delays in issuing visas on arrival to tourists who visit in December. I think this must be improved as soon as possible.

In conclusion, tourism is a low-hanging fruit that Ghana cannot afford to neglect. The government must take deliberate steps to mainstream tourism development into national economic policies to create sustainable jobs, generate revenue, and promote inclusive growth. Prioritizing tourism is not just an economic necessity; it is a strategic imperative for Ghana’s future.

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The author, Richmond Yeboah (Ph.D) is with the Department of Tourism Management, Cape Coast Technical University.