Accra: The Ghana Hotels Association (GHA) has revealed plans for its upcoming 50th Anniversary celebration, marking five decades of advocacy, perseverance, and impact on Ghana's tourism and hospitality sectors.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr. Edward Ackah-Nyamike, National President of GHA, explained that the association was established in 1975 to unify hotel owners and create a conducive environment for the industry. The GHA aims to be a well-resourced and organized body that can strategically influence economic policies to benefit the hotel sector. Key activities for the anniversary include advocacy efforts, information dissemination, capacity building, networking platforms, policy participation, and regulatory negotiations.
Mr. Ackah-Nyamike emphasized the hotel industry's role in driving tourism and providing employment. He announced four key activities to commemorate the anniversary, including a 10-kilometer health walk in Ho and the unveiling of the anniversary cloth in Tema, along with a donation to the Tema General Hospital. A symposium will take place in October in Cape Coast, and an awards ceremony will conclude the celebrations in January 2026 in Accra.
The GHA President also highlighted concerns such as the Tourism Development Fund, hotel taxes, utility tariffs, and regulatory issues. He urged the government to collaborate on initiatives like the 24-hour economy and the Blackstar Experience.
Mr. Ekow Sampson, Deputy CEO of the Ghana Tourism Authority, acknowledged the GHA's contributions to the tourism sector, noting the industry's growth from 580 hotels in 1996 to over 5,000 today. He pledged continued support for the GHA's future endeavors.
Prof. Kobby Mensah, CEO of the Ghana Tourism Development Company, emphasized the importance of the hotel industry to the sector and highlighted plans for a robust Ghana tourism marketplace. He assured the GHA of full support from the GTDC, driven by a dynamic team focused on innovation and technology.
