TOURISM TO GENERATE GHC2.25BN IN 2016-SECTOR MINISTER

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The Minister of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Mrs. Elizabeth Ofosu-Agyare says the contribution of tourism to Ghana’s economy keeps growing yearly. 

She said last year alone, the sector generated two-point-two-five billion Dollars, adding that the figure is projected to increase this year to two-point–five billion Dollars. 

Mrs. Ofosu-Agyare said the country recorded one-point-two million tourists arrival last year and that the Ministry anticipates an increase in the number this year to about one-point-three million. 

The Minister announced this in a speech read on her behalf at a durbar at Kokofu in the Bekwai Municipality of Ashanti to climax Opemsuo Festival of the chiefs and people of Kokofu. 

The festival is celebrated every two years to highlight the history of Kokofu as the birth place of Nana Osei Tutu, the first King of the Asante. 

The theme for this year’s celebration was, “Let Us Arise And Build”. Mrs. Ofosu-Agyare emphasized that cultural festivals have contributed immensely to Ghana’s socio-economic development. 

As such, her Ministry has a special interest in such festivals as they unite the various traditional areas for development and serve as vehicles or fostering peace among people. She said it is because of Ghana’s festivals that give reason for tourists to want to visit the country. 

For that to happen, the country would need to provide more than the beautiful spectacles and the festive atmosphere that accompany the display of culture. 

Mrs. Ofosu-Agyare said equally important ingredients of the tourism business such as clean and hygienic environment, improved customer service, and decent hotel accommodation also need to be provided. 

She reminded chiefs of their key role as custodians of culture and should ensure that their people accord festivals and cultural sites in their respective traditional areas with awe and reverence. 

Mrs. Ofosu-Agyare commended the Kokofu traditional council for preserving the sacred birthplace of Opemsuo Osei Tutu.

 The Paramount Chief of Kokofu, Barima Ofe Akwasi Okogyeasuo, expressed serious concern about illegal mining and deforestation that have destroyed water bodies and forest reserves and urged chiefs and landowners to desist from selling their lands for these nefarious activities.  

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