Pretoria, November 9, 2024 – In a vibrant display of cultural and business diplomacy, the Ghana High Commission in South Africa, alongside the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA), hosted the “Taste of Ghana and Business Exchange” event today in Pretoria. Held at the residence of Her Excellency Mrs. Francisca Ashietey-Odunton, Ghana’s High Commissioner to South Africa, the gathering marked a ceremonial welcome for Wanderlust Ghana as they embark on the second leg of their historic 30,000-kilometer road expedition.
The Wanderlust Ghana team’s journey, encompassing over 30 countries and spanning Europe, Dubai, and now South Africa, aims to build cultural bridges and promote Ghana’s tourism potential. This event drew prominent figures from Ghanaian and South African travel and trade sectors, celebrating a growing alliance between the two nations and showcasing Ghana’s dynamic cultural legacy.
In her address, H.E. Mrs. Ashietey-Odunton commended the evolving Ghana-South Africa relationship, highlighting shared values, solidarity, and a mutual vision for growth and prosperity. She emphasized how this partnership has flourished through initiatives fostering collaboration, cultural exchange, and people-to-people connections, such as the recent introduction of a mutual visa-free regime. This development, she noted, has opened the door for citizens of both nations to explore each other’s cultures, strengthening both tourism and business links.
Mr. Akwasi Agyeman, CEO of the Ghana Tourism Authority, further emphasized Ghana’s standing as a premier West African destination for South African travelers. He noted the success of key tourism initiatives such as the “Year of Return,” which has placed Ghana on the world tourism map, the rapidly growing MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Events) sector, and the celebrated “December in GH” festivities. Mr. Agyeman also invited South African businesses to explore investment opportunities in Ghana’s tourism and hospitality sectors, with promising areas in adventure tourism, waterfront development, and sustainable tourism technologies, all aligned with Ghana’s strategic tourism growth objectives.
Representatives of Wanderlust Ghana expressed gratitude for the warm reception from GTA and the Ghana High Commission, as well as the support they have received from the “Visit Ghana” brand. They look forward to further promoting Ghana as they advance on the final legs of their expedition.
Guests at the event enjoyed a culinary journey through Ghana with an array of authentic Ghanaian dishes, offering a taste of the country’s rich heritage. The celebration underscored Ghana’s vibrant tourism appeal and positioned it as a unique gateway to West Africa, encouraging South African travelers to experience Ghana’s charm and cultural diversity firsthand.
The Ghana Tourism delegation also included notable representatives such as Mr. Hakeem Ishmael, Ms. Miriam Brako Marfo, Ms. Veronica Amartey, and Mr. Frederick Asante, each contributing to the day’s successful celebration of Ghana-South Africa relations.
