The Tourism Society of Ghana (TOSOGHA) will officially launch the 2026 Youth in Tourism Festival (YOTOFEST) on Tuesday, August 25, 2026. This initiative aims to empower young people and significantly promote domestic tourism across Ghana. The launch event will take place at the University of Ghana, Legon.
The three-day festival operates under the theme, “My Culture, My Pride: The Role of the Youth in Promoting Domestic Tourism.” This theme highlights the crucial role young people play in preserving Ghana’s cultural heritage. It also focuses on promoting local tourism experiences and developing innovative solutions for the tourism industry. The festival is a collaborative effort between TOSOGHA and the University of Ghana.
Ghana’s tourism sector is a vital component of its economic diversification strategy, contributing significantly to Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Promoting domestic tourism helps retain capital within the country and creates local employment opportunities. This festival aligns with broader government efforts to boost local consumption and appreciation of national assets, following trends seen in other emerging economies.
Joseph Amartey, Executive Director of TOSOGHA and Youth Tourism Ambassador, emphasized the festival’s objectives. He stated, “YOTOFEST is a celebration of Ghana’s culture, creativity, and the potential of our youth.” Mr. Amartey added that the festival empowers young people with knowledge, skills, networks, and opportunities. It encourages them to become active promoters of domestic tourism and Ghana’s tourism brand.
The 2026 edition of YOTOFEST anticipates attracting more than 3,000 participants. These participants will include students, tourism and hospitality professionals, government representatives, and traditional leaders. Corporate organisations, exhibitors, and members of the public are also expected to attend. This broad participation underscores the widespread interest in youth development and tourism promotion.
The festival’s agenda includes a Youth in Tourism Summit, leadership dialogues, and sessions on tourism innovation and artificial intelligence. A career development forum will also provide guidance for young professionals. These components are designed to equip participants with practical skills and insights relevant to the modern tourism landscape.
Further activities include a tourism and hospitality exhibition and a youth business fair. A business pitch competition will encourage entrepreneurial ventures within the sector. The festival will also feature a talent hunt and a cultural and creative arts showcase, celebrating Ghana’s rich heritage. These events offer platforms for young people to display their talents and business ideas.
The final day of the festival will concentrate on cultural and community activities. These include a youth walk for domestic tourism and an entertainment night. Cultural performances and an awards ceremony will recognize contributions to youth development, tourism promotion, cultural preservation, and innovation. TOSOGHA is actively inviting corporate organisations and development partners to support the festival. This support will further efforts to promote youth entrepreneurship and sustainable tourism development in Ghana. The festival represents a strategic investment in the future of Ghana’s tourism industry and its young workforce.