Accra: Professor Charles Tortoe, a Committee Member of the Ghana Beverage Awards (GBA), has challenged the local beverage industry to set standards in the hospitality sector and shine beyond Ghana’s borders. Although the industry is growing, he emphasized the importance of promoting Ghana’s culture through its unique tastes across the globe. Prof. Tortoe made these remarks during the celebration of the 2024 Ghana Beverage Awards organized by the Global Media Alliance in Accra.
According to Ghana News Agency, the ninth edition of the awards was themed ‘Inspiring Excellence in Ghana’s Beverage Industry.’ The judging process for selecting winners was described as rigorous and highly competitive, with criteria including taste, market presence, consumer engagement, sustainability, and branding. Prof. Tortoe highlighted that the industry is evolving, noting the introduction of new categories such as Bar of the Year and Bartender of the Year, which celebrate the creativity and skills of professionals in the field.
M
r. Ernest Boateng, CEO of Global Media Alliance, remarked that excellence in the industry is intentional, driven by vision, innovation, and hard work. He stated that the GBA aims to honor the entire value chain, from distillers to marketers and bartenders. Mr. Boateng added that consumers seek cultural experiences through food and drinks, and the world is eager to experience what Ghana has to offer. He praised the awardees for their innovation and tenacity in promoting the Ghana Beverage industry.
In a speech delivered on behalf of Madam Dzifa Ablah Gomashie, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Maame Afua Houadjeto, CEO of the Ghana Tourism Authority, emphasized that the ceremony honors not just the winners but also the collective efforts of those behind the vibrant beverage industry in Ghana. She highlighted the industry’s role in value addition and tourism promotion, noting that Ghanaian beverages tell the story of the land and its people.
Madam Gomashie urged collaboration across the industry
to position Ghana as a preferred destination for business and tourism, with locally made beverages serving as symbols of Ghanaian creativity, quality, and culture. She highlighted the social aspect of beverages, underscoring their role in fostering connections and cultural exchange.
The awards recognized various achievements, with Bel-Cola by Blow Chem Industries winning Beverage Product of the Year and Happy Delight Fruit Drink named Fruit Drink of the Year. Other notable winners included Heritage Beer (Beer of the Year), Coca-Cola Bottling Company of Ghana (CSR Company of the Year), and Johnnie Walker (International Spirit of the Year). Twellium Industrial Company Limited was named Manufacturing Company of the Year, while Voltic Natural Mineral Water was honored as Beverage Sustainability Champion of the Year.
