President Mahama Utilizes Creatives to Enhance Tourism | By Joojo Maapa | In a strategic move to elevate the tourism sector’s contribution to Ghana’s economy, President John Dramani Mahama has appointed a host of talents from the creative arts and tourism fields.
Analysts say this initiative underlines the administration’s commitment to harnessing the country’s rich cultural heritage and diverse tourism offerings as powerful drivers of economic growth.
Tourism has been a significant sector in Ghana’s economy, contributing approximately $3 billion to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP). However, there is immense potential to increase this revenue, given the country’s wealth of attractions, which include the stunning landscapes of the Volta Region, vibrant cultural experiences, and historical landmarks such as the Cape Coast and Elmina Castles, and Kakum National Park.
By tapping into this potential, the administration hopes to boost tourism revenue significantly, aiming for a target of $5 billion over the coming years.
Among the notable appointees is Gilbert Abeiku Aggrey affectionately known as Abeiku Santana, who has been appointed as the acting Deputy CEO of the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA). With over 23 years of experience in broadcasting and tourism management, Santana brings invaluable expertise. He will work closely with CEO, Maame Efua Houadjeto, to implement strategic plans that emphasize Ghana’s key tourism offerings and enhance its visibility on the global stage.
Creative entrepreneur Kofi Okyere-Darko (KOD), appointed as Director of Diaspora Affairs, Office of the President, is expected to play a crucial role in connecting Ghana with its global diaspora. His extensive background in media and the arts positions him well to promote initiatives that invite Ghanaians abroad to invest in their homeland.
By fostering cultural collaboration and enhancing the visibility of Ghana’s tourist attractions within the diaspora, KOD aims to increase tourist influx and investment, reinforcing the success of programs like the “Year of Return,” which has attracted significant interest from the global diaspora community and people of African descent.
“Ghana’s diaspora community has long played a crucial role in our nation’s development, contributing significantly across sectors such as business, culture, technology, and education.
Strengthening these connections and fostering deeper engagement is vital to national progress, and I am committed to working diligently to enhance these ties,” Kofi Okyere-Darko (KOD) said in an acceptance statement on Wednesday, Feb 26, 2025.
Additionally, celebrated musician and cultural advocate Rex Owusu Marfo, known as Rex Omar, has been appointed as a Presidential Staffer for the Black Star Experience. This initiative aims to celebrate and promote Ghanaian culture through year-round events spanning various artistic forms—from music to fashion—thereby redefining Ghana’s cultural identity. Omar’s position will allow him to create engaging events that attract both tourists and locals, enhancing community involvement in the tourism sector.
Ghana is renowned for its rich history, warm hospitality, and diverse offerings, including ecotourism, beach tourism along its picturesque coastlines, and cultural tourism through festivals such as Homowo and Panafest.
These new appointees are expected to amplify tourism’s role in Ghana’s economy and position the country on the global tourism map. By capitalizing on the momentum generated by the “Year of Return” and “Beyond the Return,” they will work to attract tourists, encourage investments, and create job opportunities. They ultimately aim to boost tourism revenue to $5 billion and pave the way for sustainable growth in the tourism sector and the Ghanaian economy as a whole.
President Mahama Utilizes Creatives to Enhance Tourism | AviationGhana.com
