The management of Kintampo Waterfalls, located in the Kintampo Municipality of the Bono East Region, has expressed strong disapproval over the spread of false information regarding the facility on social media. In a statement, they reassured the public that proactive measures are being taken to protect the reputation of the tourist site, which has faced challenges, including misinformation that has undermined its credibility.
Although Kintampo Waterfalls did not meet its 2024 target of attracting 30,000 visitors, management is focused on boosting its visitor numbers in the coming months. As part of a broader initiative to improve the site's appeal, significant upgrades have been made, including the construction of paved walkways, additional staircases, and the addition of a new canopy walkway. These enhancements aim to provide an even more attractive and enjoyable experience for visitors, especially during the busy festive seasons.
Despite these improvements, Kintampo Waterfalls has struggled with the spread of fake news on social media, which has hindered efforts to attract tourists. One of the most significant pieces of misinformation revolves around the colour of the waterfall’s water, which has been wrongly attributed to illegal mining activities. According to Michael Afeke, the Manager of Kintampo Waterfalls, the change in water colour is caused by the rain carrying waste from the surrounding area, not illegal mining. Afeke urged the public not to use this issue as a platform for spreading false information.
To counter the negative impact of misinformation, the management has implemented several strategies aimed at increasing visibility and attracting visitors. These efforts include leveraging both traditional and digital media for marketing. Local media in Kintampo, as well as a robust online presence, have been integral to the site's strategy to reach a wider audience and correct misleading narratives.
Visitors who have toured the Kintampo Waterfalls have been quick to praise the improvements. Many reported that their experience surpassed previous expectations, highlighting the upgraded features and the natural beauty of the location. One visitor, who had travelled four hours to see the site, shared their excitement: “I have heard a lot about the place, but this is my first time being here. Most of the people that we came with have been here before, and they told us about it, so we travelled just to experience it,” they said.
The positive feedback from tourists, along with the management's efforts to combat misinformation, suggests that the Kintampo Waterfalls will continue to grow in popularity. As the management sets its sights on reaching the 30,000 visitor target for this year, it is clear that the combination of infrastructure improvements and a well-thought-out marketing strategy will be key to achieving this goal. With the community’s support and continued improvements, the Kintampo Waterfalls are poised to become an even more significant destination for both local and international tourists.
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