Prince Anthony Bart-Appiah, a prominent member of the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) Board, died on Sunday, July 26, 2026. He passed away in the early hours at his private residence located in Spintex, Accra. The Ghana Tourism Authority officially announced his death via a Facebook post on Tuesday, July 28, 2026.
Prince Anthony served on the GTA Governing Board from 2025 until his recent passing. He was widely recognized for his significant contributions to Ghana's tourism industry. His efforts focused particularly on attracting the African diaspora and enhancing the nation's global appeal as a heritage destination.
His death represents a notable loss for Ghana's tourism sector, which has been a crucial component of the nation's economic diversification strategy. The tourism industry contributes substantially to Ghana's Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and provides numerous employment opportunities. Prince Anthony's work helped to solidify Ghana's position as a leading destination for cultural and heritage tourism, especially for those of African descent.
Prince Anthony, a former British Army officer and a royal from the Akwamu clan, played an instrumental role in the flagship 'Year of Return' campaign. This initiative, launched in 2019, commemorated 400 years since the first recorded arrival of enslaved Africans in English North America. The campaign successfully elevated Ghana's international profile, drawing thousands of visitors and generating significant revenue for the country.
Beyond his board duties, Prince Anthony was also the Chief Executive Officer of Bridgezone. This agency dedicated its efforts to showcasing Africa to Western audiences and fostering deeper cultural connections. His work with Bridgezone complemented his public service, creating a holistic approach to promoting Ghana's rich cultural heritage and tourism potential.
The 'Year of Return' campaign, under his influence, achieved remarkable success. It not only attracted a large number of tourists but also stimulated investment in the hospitality sector. This campaign demonstrated the economic power of heritage tourism and its potential to drive national development. The initiative's success led to subsequent programs aimed at sustaining the momentum.
The Ghana Tourism Authority expressed its profound condolences to Prince Anthony's family and all those mourning his passing. His legacy includes a strengthened tourism infrastructure and a heightened global awareness of Ghana's historical significance. His vision helped to transform Ghana into a preferred destination for diaspora tourism, creating lasting economic and cultural impacts.
His contributions will continue to influence future tourism strategies aimed at attracting international visitors and fostering cultural exchange. The foundation he helped build through initiatives like the 'Year of Return' provides a robust framework for ongoing growth in Ghana's tourism economy. The sector remains a vital engine for job creation and foreign exchange earnings.