The Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) under the leadership of CEO Mr. Akwasi Agyeman, has called for greater support from Ghanaians towards local tourist attractions, meshing their business patronage with the unique cultural heritage and natural beauty that Ghana offers. Mr. Agyeman made this appeal during the Northern Regional Tourism Awards, where he was represented by Director of Research, Monitoring, and Evaluation (RME), Dr. Spencer Doku. The awards event was themed “Celebrating Innovation and Excellence in the Tourism Sector,” focusing on recognizing outstanding performers in Ghana’s tourism landscape, which plays a vital role in stimulating economic advancement and creating job opportunities. He highlighted the importance of collective efforts in promoting tourism as a strategic catalyst for sustainable economic growth.
At the awards ceremony held at the Red Clay Studio in the Sagnarigu Municipality, various establishments and individuals were celebrated for their contributions to the tourism sector. Among the winners, Nim Avenue Hotel was recognized as the 2-Star Hotel of the Year, with Bowmarie Resort receiving accolades for the 1-Star Hotel of the Year category. Other awards included Mbiib-Do Guest House as Budget Hotel of the Year and Daa Dingbe Suites for Service Apartment of the Year. The ceremony also recognized the Catholic Archdiocesan Guesthouse as the Good Corporate Organization of the Year, thus promoting corporate responsibility within the tourism industry.
Additionally, the awards honored outstanding culinary establishments with Wooden Lounge named Restaurant of the Year (Grade 2), while 7A’s Unique Services was awarded Restaurant of the Year (Grade 3). Other notable winners included De-Shallote Catering Service as Chop Bar of the Year and King David Spot as Drinking Bar of the Year. In the fast food category, KFC triumphed as Fast Food of the Year. For travel services, Trip Africa Tours and Power Link Travel and Tour won Tour Operator of the Year and Travel Agency of the Year, respectively, while Yussif Adam Abdul Rahman was honored as Tour Guide of the Year, reinforcing the vital role of these service providers in attracting tourists.
Mr. Agyeman expressed the urgent need for innovation and commitment to quality service within the tourism sector, signifying that the industry’s growth hinges on continuous adaptation and enhancement. His encouraging comments aimed to motivate stakeholders to remain passionate and dedicated to fostering a thriving tourism environment, reinforcing that recognition strengthens standards and encourages excellence in service delivery.
The Northern Regional Minister, Alhaji Shani Alhassan Saibu, represented by his Regional Director Mr. Sumaila Ewuntomi Abudu, reiterated the government’s dedication to leveraging tourism for socio-economic development within the region. He underscored the importance of strategic partnerships and policy creation aimed at improving tourism infrastructure, enhancing visitor experiences, and fostering skills development among tourism professionals. Through these committed efforts, the Northern Region aims to become a prime destination for both local and international tourists, strengthening the region’s economic viability.
Contributions from industry leaders such as Mr. Ibrahim Mahama, Director of Red Clay Studio, showcased additional initiatives aimed at boosting domestic tourism and serving as a research hub for academia. The Northern Regional Director of the GTA, Lawyer Angelo Dogbe, also pointed out that although certain attractions have migrated to Savannah and North East Regions, the Northern Region possesses significant untapped resources. With a forward-looking approach that embraces creativity, collaboration, and sustainable tourism practices, the Northern Region is poised for growth, solidifying its position as an attractive tourism destination in Ghana.
