The Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MoTAC) in Ghana has unveiled its plans to increase the country's foreign exchange earnings through tourism, with a target of generating $6 million from tourist arrivals by 2026.
Dr. Mohammed Ibrahim Awal, the Sector Minister, emphasized that in 2022, one million tourist arrivals brought in approximately $300,000 in revenue.
Speaking at a media capacity-building workshop on tourism, arts, and culture reporting in Kumasi, Dr. Awal announced the Ministry's goal to achieve 1.2 million tourist arrivals in the country by 2023.
The workshop, organized by MoTAC, brought together journalists and media practitioners from the Ashanti, Bono, Bono East, and Ahafo Regions.
Dr. Awal highlighted the significant economic potential of tourism and its capacity to create local employment opportunities. He estimated that with media support, the Ministry could generate around 150,000 local jobs annually.
Dr. Awal urged the media to play a vital role by identifying, packaging, and showcasing Ghana's tourist attractions to attract both tourists and investors.
Additionally, he encouraged the private sector to demonstrate interest in and invest in the nation's tourism industry to further enhance domestic tourism.
Reporting by Dennis Peprah. Editing by Mariam Aminu.
