Ghana’s tourism future, according to the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Abla Dzifa Gomashie, lies not just in attracting international visitors, but in deepening local participation and pride in indigenous products. Speaking at the “Back to Your Village” Food Festival in Accra, she called on Ghanaians to embrace and promote locally made goods as a strategic pathway to strengthening the tourism industry and national economy.
The festival, held at the Efua Sutherland Children’s Park, brought together food vendors, cultural enthusiasts and businesses showcasing Ghana’s rich culinary heritage. The Minister noted that strong patronage of local food and products could inject fresh energy into the country’s economic ecosystem while sustaining small businesses.
She emphasised that Ghana’s cultural diversity from the North to the coastal regions, offers unique products and experiences that can drive tourism growth if properly appreciated and promoted. According to her, building a culture of consuming what is locally produced will not only support businesses but also create a ripple effect across the economy.
The Minister further highlighted that increased demand for local goods translates into higher incomes for producers, which in turn boosts tax revenue. These revenues, she explained, can support national development through improved infrastructure, rural electrification and other essential services.
She also proposed expanding such festivals nationwide, suggesting that replicating the initiative across all 16 regions could significantly strengthen local enterprises and enhance Ghana’s tourism value chain.
Ultimately, the message was clear: sustainable tourism growth begins at home. By celebrating, consuming and investing in local culture, especially food, Ghana can build a more resilient and globally competitive tourism industry.
Source: CitiNewsroom
