Dr. Ibrahim Mohammed Awal
The Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Dr. Ibrahim Mohammed Awal says the seemingly slow growth of the tourism industry in Ghana could be improved if poor customer care is addressed.
Speaking at the National Tourism Awards 2023, on the theme “Celebrating 50 years of Ghana’s tourism excellence,” he said surveys over the past one year indicated that poor customer service was the biggest challenge facing the tourism sector, hence the need for both public and private sectors to work together to improve the sector.
“I therefore want to urge, hotel owners, restaurant owners, hospitality owners, everybody in the tourism value chain to wage a war on poor customer service. Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA), please next year, you must work together with the private sector to make sure that we improve customer care, we won’t tolerate poor customer care,” he said.
He also mentioned that though Ghana is ranked as the number one tourist destination in West Africa, operators within the tourist value chain such as hotels, transport companies could do more with attractive packages to help boost domestic tourism.
The Chief Executive of the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA), AkwasiAgyeman, who lauded the work of the awardees said they have not only contributed to the economic growth of the country but also elevated the tourism experience for visitors from all parts of the globe.
He said GTA has played a key role in shaping Ghana’s tourism landscape, showcasing its vibrant culture and historical landmarks.
He indicated that the awards therefore provided them an opportunity to reflect on the remarkable milestones achieved by the sector.
NeenyiGhartey VII, Paramount Chief of Effutu Traditional Area, who was the special guest, in his address also commended the Ghana Tourism Authority for sustaining the National Tourism Awards which provides a unique platform to recognise tourism sector players for their contributions to the promotion and growth of the tourism sector.
He also described the 50 years of GTA’s establishment as a significant milestone, while commending the current and past executives of the Authority as well as private sector players for their foresight and hardwork.
Twenty-five (25) players were awarded at the honorary edition for their artistic support to the tourism industry, includinghiplife/highlife artiste Okyeame Kwame and Ibrahim Mahama.
Other individuals who were also honoured for tourism investment are Minister for Agriculture Bryan Acheampong, Western Regional Minister, Kwabena OkyereDarko-Mensah, Nana Adu SakodeeAfriyie, Frank Nana Buah and ZibrimYamusah.
Samir Kalmoni, KwakuPassah, EnimilAshong, Kwame OfosuBamfo, NaaSintaroIddrisu Mahama and Okatakyie Nana Anim among others were also recognised.
The event, which also marked the golden jubilee of the Ghana Tourism Authority, brought together some government dignitaries, players in the tourism sector among several others.
By Ebenezer K. Amponsah