Embarking on a journey to the Royal Cosy Hills Safari Resort in Jirapa in the Upper West region initially seemed like a simple getaway, but it unfolded into the discovery of a hidden gem and a significant catalyst for tourism in the Upper West region.

Amidst the exhilarating activities at the Safari Ranch – encompassing hikes, game drives, quad bike tours, boat rides, canoes, fishing, and jet ski rides – Royal Cosy Hills surpasses expectations by aspiring to showcase the entire region to its guests. Aided by dedicated tour guides like Aziz Pelpuo, cultural tours serve as a gateway to the soul of the Upper West.

The Jirapa Town Tour, Mushroom Rock Tour and Nadowli Tour transcend mere excursions, offering immersive experiences interwoven with tales and legends. Aziz Pelpuo passionately narrates stories, unveiling how mushroom rocks served as safe havens against those seeking captives for slavery. Each town's name and history unfold in an exciting narrative, providing a profound understanding of the region beyond conventional history books.

The apex of my Royal Cosy Hills experience was a nostalgic visit to the Black Volta. The canoe ride from Ghana to Burkina Faso unravelled the arbitrariness of borders, where farmers and fisherfolks seamlessly live on one side and trade on the other—a poignant reminder of the intricacies of African borders drawn without consideration for the lives they affect.

In the 2023 program-based budget, Royal Cosy Hills Safari Resort stood out as the largest commercial facility in the Jirapa municipality.

Undoubtedly, it holds the potential to become the growth pole for the municipality and the entire region. However, it is perplexing that the Ministry of Tourism and the Ghana Tourism Authority's official "Beyond the Return" document, listing places to visit and activities in Ghana this December, does not reference or recognize such a remarkable facility.

To rectify this oversight, concerted efforts should be made to bring Royal Cosy Hills into the spotlight. Collaborations between the resort and tourism authorities can ensure its inclusion in official promotions and documents, enhancing its visibility on the national and international stage.

Additionally, engaging with relevant stakeholders and media outlets can generate the awareness needed to position Royal Cosy Hills as a must-visit destination.

By addressing this discrepancy, we will not only elevate the status of this hidden gem but also contribute to the overall tourism growth of the Upper West Region.

The time is ripe for Royal Cosy Hills to receive the acknowledgement and acclaim it rightfully deserves in Ghana's vibrant tourism landscape.