The Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) has once again demonstrated its commitment to positioning Ghana as a vibrant, year-round tourism destination, with strong participation in two of the country’s most iconic Easter events — the Kwahu Business Summit, the official opening of the Paragliding Festival, and the Vodza Regatta in the Volta Region.
At the Kwahu Business Summit, His Excellency John Dramani Mahama delivered a reflective and forward-looking address that underscored the importance of tourism as a pillar for economic transformation. In a moment of nostalgia, he shared a personal anecdote that resonated deeply with participants:
“I recall vividly the long campaign journeys, sitting at the back of my Prado with my Chief of Staff. Even then, we were thinking critically about how to reposition tourism as a key driver of Ghana’s economy. Today, that vision remains even more urgent and achievable.”
The summit served as a powerful platform to reinforce tourism’s role in enterprise development, regional growth, and job creation, particularly within the Kwahu enclave, which continues to be a focal point during the Easter festivities.
At the official opening ceremony of the Paragliding Festival, the Chief Executive Officer of the GTA, Maame Efua Houadjeto, delivered a compelling address that highlighted both Ghana’s growing reputation in adventure tourism and the Authority’s forward-looking agenda:
“Kwahu has become synonymous with paragliding in Africa, drawing thousands of visitors annually and placing Ghana firmly on the global tourism map. But we are not stopping here.”
She further announced a major strategic initiative aimed at expanding this success:
“We are currently undertaking a feasibility study to develop an additional paragliding site at Adaklu in the Volta Region. This forms part of our broader vision to decentralize tourism and unlock the unique potential of every region.”
Her remarks reinforced the GTA’s commitment to innovation, regional inclusivity, and sustainable tourism growth.
Meanwhile, the scenic coastal community of Vodza came alive with the vibrant celebration of the annual regatta, drawing high-level dignitaries and enthusiastic patrons. The event was graced by the Vice President, Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Abla Dzifa Gomashie, and the Volta Regional Minister, Dzifa Gunu.
Delivering a powerful and forward-looking message, Vice President Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang set the tone for the significance of culture-driven development:
“Tourism is not a side conversation in our economic agenda — it is central to it. When we invest in our culture, when we elevate our stories, and when we empower our communities, we are building an economy that is inclusive, resilient, and globally competitive. Ghana must own its narrative, and events like the Vodza Regatta prove that our heritage is not just history — it is opportunity.”
Following her remarks, Hon. Gomashie emphasized the cultural and economic significance of such festivals:
“Events like the Vodza Regatta are not just celebrations of our heritage; they are critical economic drivers that empower local communities and showcase Ghana’s rich cultural diversity to the world.”
The Volta Regional Minister, Hon. Dzifa Gunu, reaffirmed the region’s readiness to become a prime tourism destination:
“The Volta Region stands ready to welcome the world. With our unique blend of culture, nature, and hospitality, we are positioning ourselves as a must-visit destination on Ghana’s tourism map.”
The events were also attended by the Board Chair of the Ghana Tourism Authority, Gertrude Emefa Donkor, alongside other distinguished members of the Board, whose presence underscored the Authority’s unified commitment to driving tourism growth.
From the heights of Kwahu to the shores of Vodza, the Easter festivities once again highlighted the immense potential of Ghana’s tourism sector — a sector that continues to evolve through strategic leadership, public-private collaboration, and a shared national vision.
