A mandate for tourism: Mahama’s opportunity to elevate Ghana’s tourism sector
Over the past two weeks, I’ve emphasised the critical need for Ghana’s leadership to focus on tourism as a driver of national development.
Now, with the elections concluded, the people have entrusted former President John Dramani Mahama with an overwhelming mandate.
With over 56 per cent of the votes and a commanding two-thirds majority in Parliament, Mahama is set to take office on January 7, 2025.
This decisive victory is a call for transformative action, offering him the chance to correct past missteps, build on existing foundations and position Ghana for sustainable growth.
Tourism, as a key pillar of economic development, offers unparalleled opportunities. By the end of Mahama’s term, the goal should be clear: achieving at least 2.5 million tourist arrivals annually and fostering a tourism-orientated mindset among all Ghanaians. To achieve this, I propose six strategic priorities for the incoming administration.
Combat galamsey to revive eco-tourism
Illegal mining (galamsey) has left Ghana’s natural landscapes scarred, rivers polluted and wildlife habitats endangered. Addressing this is essential for Ghana to establish itself as a premier ecotourism destination.
Mahama’s administration must enforce stricter anti-galamsey regulations and rehabilitate degraded areas. Iconic natural attractions like the Mole National Park, Kakum Canopy Walkway and the waterfalls of the Volta Region must be protected to attract eco-conscious travellers and generate sustainable revenue for local communities.
Establish national carrier, aviation hub
Connectivity is fundamental to tourism. Ghana needs a competitive national airline to establish Kotoka International Airport as a leading aviation hub in West Africa, linking the country to key global markets.
The Mahama administration must resurrect the dream of a national carrier, complemented by investments in airport infrastructure and partnerships with regional airlines. Learning from the success of Togo’s Lomé hub, Ghana can become a gateway for international and regional travellers.
Revolutionise Ghana’s visa regime
Streamlining the visa process is a low-hanging fruit that can significantly enhance Ghana’s appeal. The new administration should draw inspiration from Seychelles, Rwanda and Kenya, which have adopted electronic travel authorisation (ETA) systems.
I propose abolishing visa requirements for most countries and introducing a nominal ETA fee of up to $50 for non-ECOWAS travellers.
For those from visa-waiver nations, the ETA can be a free, mandatory online registration. This system will simplify travel, boost revenue and position Ghana as a welcoming destination.
Position Ghana as a MICE destination
The Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) sector holds immense potential for economic diversification. To capitalise on this market, Ghana must develop world-class infrastructure.
To be taken seriously as a MICE destination, the Mahama administration should prioritise constructing at least one international convention centre with state-of-the-art facilities capable of hosting global events.
Alongside infrastructure, a strategic marketing campaign targeting organisations like the African Union, United Nations and global event planners will establish Ghana as Africa’s preferred MICE destination.
Empower local communities to benefit from tourism
Tourism’s sustainability depends on community participation. For Ghana to maximise its tourism potential, local communities must have a stake in the sector.
Mahama’s administration must focus on initiatives like cooperative models for managing heritage sites, community-based tourism ventures and revenue-sharing mechanisms.
Empowered communities will actively preserve and promote their cultural and natural heritage, enhancing the overall tourism experience.
Leverage ‘Year of Return’ legacy
The legacy of the Year of Return and initiatives like December in GH must be sustained and expanded. These programmes have successfully connected Ghana to the African diaspora, fostering cultural exchange and economic benefits.
The Mahama administration should invest in marketing Ghana as the ultimate destination for diaspora engagement, leveraging festivals, heritage sites and cultural experiences to deepen these ties and attract even more visitors.
Also, December should not only be the time to connect to the African diaspora, but it should also be all year round.
A tourism renaissance awaits
Tourism can transform Ghana’s economy, creating jobs and boosting its international image. Achieving this requires decisive leadership, strategic investments and a collaborative approach.
By addressing galamsey, establishing a national carrier, reforming the visa regime, investing in MICE infrastructure, empowering local communities and leveraging the Year of Return legacy, Mahama’s administration can set a new benchmark for tourism development in Ghana.
The next four years present an unprecedented opportunity to elevate Ghana into Africa’s tourism elite. The journey begins now.