A sod cutting ceremony was held on Tuesday to commence the construction of the first-ever Accra Visitors and Tourists Information Centre (AVIC). The project, which is expected to be completed in May 2011, would help boost the tourism sector of the country and provide both local and foreign tourists with relevant and information about Ghana. The GH¢ 1.2m project is jointly funded by the governments of Japan and Ghana. The project, after completion is expected to provide information to travellers, tourists, investors, donors, Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) and the general public. Cutting the sod to start the construction of the centre Zita Okaikoi, Minister of Tourism said the project would create 700 direct jobs for Ghanaians and therefore reduce the unemployment rate among the youth. Hon. Okaikoi noted that the event opens a new chapter for tourists, especially foreigners visiting the country for the first time, adding that it would enable them to have access to a one-stop shop where adequate and necessary information about our country would be obtained. She said the AVIC, after completion, would help stranded foreigners who visit the country. The Minister of Information, John Tia urged Ghanaians to work hard to promote tourism since it is the fourth major foreign exchange earner of the country with an annual turnover of about 1.6 billion dollars, adding that it has created more than 26,000 jobs directly and indirectly. The project is expected to be replicated in the other regional capitals to provide services to tourists, investors and other users. The Japanese Ambassador to Ghana, Keiichi Katakami expressed happiness about the construction of the centre and stressed that the Japanese government has supported Ghana in its efforts to promote tourism over the years. Source: Daily Guide