The enchanting gardens of Christiansborg Castle, Osu, recently set the stage for the National Tourism Awards, a prestigious annual event celebrating excellence across Ghana’s tourism and hospitality sectors. Leaders, innovators, and industry pioneers gathered in Accra to honor those whose exceptional contributions have enhanced Ghana’s tourism landscape.
The event featured distinguished figures, including Hon. Oboshie Sai-Cofie, former Minister of Tourism and Senior Presidential Advisor, who chaired the evening with grace, and Special Guest of Honour Togbe Dr. Crystal-Djirackor, Chairman of Crystal TV Group. Other key dignitaries included Hon. Andrew Egyapa Mercer (MP), Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, and his Deputy, Mark Okraku-Mantey. Leaders from the Ghana Tourism Authority, including CEO Mr. Akwasi Agyeman, his deputies Mr. Ekow Sampson and Mr. Ben Nsiah, and heads of public service agencies and trade associations were also in attendance.
The awards ceremony celebrated exceptional contributions in 26 categories across various sectors of tourism. The evening’s honorees included:
🏨 Hospitality Sector:
- 5-Star Hotel: Labadi Beach Hotel
- 4-Star Hotel: The Royal Senchi Hotel & Resort
- 3-Star Hotel: Golden Bean Hotel
- 2-Star Hotel: Sogakope Beach Resort & Spa
- 1-Star Hotel: GRNMA Hotel
- Guesthouse: Brynx Haven
- Budget: Johnass Lodge
- Hostel: De-Blays Hostel
- Serviced Apartment: Veronique Heights
🍽️ Food and Beverage Sector:
- Grade 1 Restaurant: Moka’s Restaurant
- Grade 2 Restaurant: The Buka Restaurant
- Grade 3 Restaurant: Conemm Catering Service
- Traditional Catering: God is Love Chop Bar
- Fast Food: Shoprite Ghana (PTY) Ltd
- Drinking Bar: King David Spot
- Night Club/Pub: Exhale Lounge
🚗 Travel and Tourism Services:
- Travel Agency: Satguru Travel & Tours
- Tour Operator of the Year: Ashanti African Tours
- Car Rental: Nii Plants Car Rentals
- Tour Guide of the Year: Mr. Fuseni Nawaru
- Site Guide of the Year: Justice Brobbey
🎭 Visitor Attractions and Media:
- Visitor Attraction of the Year: Bisa Aberwa Museum
- Digital Tourism Icon: SDK DELE
- Tourism-Oriented Media: Citi FM/Channel One TV
🌿 Sustainable Tourism and Tour Operations:
- Sustainability Award: Eusbett Hotel
Among the evening’s distinguished awards were honorary recognitions for individuals who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, long-standing dedication, and visionary achievements.
Amongst the winners were:
- Long-standing Commitment to Quality Events Service: Madam Afi Amoro, CEO of Jandel LTD, was celebrated for her dedication to elevating event standards in Ghana through quality services that have enhanced the tourism and hospitality landscape.
- Long-standing Commitment to Promoting Tourism through Advertising: Mrs. Norkor Dua, CEO of Mullen Lowe Ghana, was recognized for her invaluable role in using advertising to spotlight Ghana’s tourism potential and attract visitors worldwide.
- Outstanding Leadership in Tourism Development: Nana Effah Guakro IV, Chief of Kyeremankoma, Kintampo, and Kronkor Hene of Nkoranza, received this honour for his commitment to advancing tourism development within his region, enriching Ghana’s cultural and heritage tourism.
- Traditional Leadership and Cultural Preservation: Masaaba Sariki Fayinama III, Acting President of the National Council of Zongo Chiefs and President of the National Council of Wangara Chiefs, was honoured for his dedication to preserving Ghana’s diverse cultural heritage, particularly within traditional communities.
- Outstanding Contributions to Diaspora Engagement: Rabbi Kohain Nathanyah Helevi, Executive Director of the PANAFEST Secretariat, was celebrated for his impactful work in fostering connections between Ghana and the African diaspora, strengthening cultural ties and heritage exchange.
- Outstanding Contributions to Promoting Tourism through Events: Mrs. Theresa Ayoade, CEO of Charter House, was awarded for her visionary leadership in organizing tourism-driven events that have positioned Ghana as a hub for entertainment and cultural experiences.
- Outstanding Events Visionary: Kennedy Agyapong Jr., of Afrofuture, received this award for his forward-thinking approach to creating events that celebrate African identity and attract global audiences, amplifying Ghana’s tourism appeal.
- Woman of Excellence in Public Service: Mrs. Bridget Katsriku, Former Chief Director at the Ministry of Tourism, was recognized for her dedicated service and leadership, which have paved the way for advancements in Ghana’s tourism sector.
These honorary awards underscore the National Tourism Awards’ commitment to acknowledging leaders who drive growth and excellence within Ghana’s tourism industry. Congratulations to all honorees for their contributions to promoting Ghana’s rich heritage and vibrant tourism sector!
Congratulations to all the honorees for their invaluable contributions and dedication to showcasing the best of Ghana! 🌍✨
The National Tourism Awards, organized by the Ghana Tourism Authority, acknowledges the remarkable impact of individuals, businesses, and organizations that have made Ghana a premier tourism destination in Africa. This year’s winners embody the exceptional standards and passion driving Ghana’s tourism industry forward.
