Mr Akwasi Agyeman, the CEO of the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA), has resigned, bringing to a close a transformative period in the country’s tourism sector. Having taken on the role in January 2017, Mr Agyeman guided the GTA through a remarkable recovery, leading the sector through the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and positioning it for future growth.
Under his leadership, international tourist arrivals saw a dramatic recovery, soaring from 355,108 in 2020 to 1,148,002 in 2023—surpassing pre-pandemic levels. Domestic tourism also thrived, with visitor numbers rising from 456,000 in 2017 to 1.4 million in 2023, driven by Mr Agyeman’s visionary approach and strategic planning.
Key accomplishments during his tenure include the restoration of several major tourist destinations, such as the Kintampo Waterfalls, the Kwahu Paragliding Site, the Bunso Eco Park, the Denkyira Kyekyewere Eco Park, the Tano Boase Sacred Grove, the Tetteh Quarshie Cocoa Farm, and the Tafi Atome Monkey Sanctuary. Notable redevelopment projects included the Accra Tourist Information Center and historic landmarks like the Nationalism Park, the Geese Park, the Salaga Slave Market, the Bonwire Kente Museum, and the Pikworo Slavery Camp.
Innovative initiatives like "The Year of Return" and "December in Ghana" helped position Ghana as a top destination for international visitors, particularly during the Christmas season.
Mr. Agyeman also emphasized digital transformation and professional development, launching the National Tourism Destination Single Window Project and the "Visit Ghana" App. Additionally, he facilitated the training of over 3,069 individuals in key areas such as customer service, digital marketing, and tourism product knowledge through the Ghana CARES Obaatanpa Initiative.
As Mr Agyeman steps down, the leadership of the Ghana Tourism Authority passes to Mr Otto Langmane, Acting Chief Director of the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, and Mr Ekow Sampson, Deputy CEO in charge of Operations.
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