The Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts has declared its intention to develop the Volta Region into a major eco-tourism hub. Minister Abla Dzifa Gomashie confirmed this commitment, outlining plans for cultural promotion, eco-tourism development, and substantial private sector investment.
This strategic focus follows President John Dramani Mahama’s Citizens’ Engagement in Ho. Madam Gomashie emphasized the government's prioritization of the Volta Region's tourism potential. She met with the Volta Regional Minister, Mr. James Gunu, and subsequently engaged all Municipal and District Chief Executives (MDCEs) to identify unique local attractions.
This initiative aligns with Ghana's broader economic strategy to diversify revenue streams beyond traditional sectors. Developing the Volta Region's tourism infrastructure can attract foreign exchange and create local employment opportunities. The government aims to boost the region's contribution to the national economy.
Minister Gomashie stated, "The responsibility of the assemblies is to identify what is unique and marketable in their districts, while the Ministry provides the technical expertise to package and promote those attractions both locally and internationally." This highlights a collaborative approach between central and local government.
The next steps involve significant infrastructure improvements, particularly road rehabilitation. Following a directive from President Mahama, Madam Gomashie met with Mr. Kwame Governs Agbodza, Minister for Roads and Highways. They discussed upgrading roads leading to major tourist sites across the country, including those in the Volta Region. The second phase of the government’s “Big Push” infrastructure programme is expected to enhance accessibility.
The Volta Region possesses immense eco-tourism potential, including the Adaklu Mountain range and the Likpe–Todome area in the Oti Region, suitable for adventure tourism like paragliding. Other key attractions include the Wli and Agumatsa Waterfalls, Avu Lagoon, and various coastal communities. The government is actively inviting private investors to partner in developing these sites into internationally competitive destinations.
Madam Gomashie stressed that tourism development is primarily driven by private investment. She noted, "We provide policy direction, but tourism is driven by private investment." The Ministry is offering litigation-free lands and exploring Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) and other Public-Private Partnership (PPP) arrangements to attract capital. This approach seeks to leverage private sector efficiency and funding.
The success of the Vodza Easter Regatta, an emerging tourism product, demonstrates the potential for such partnerships. Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang's participation in this year's event brought national attention. The government intends to transform the southern coastal belt of the Volta Region into a vibrant cultural and marine tourism destination through similar strategic public-private collaborations.
The Ghana Tourism Development Company has launched a digital tourism platform to showcase businesses and attractions nationwide. However, Minister Gomashie expressed concern that many hotels, restaurants, and tour operators have not registered. She urged businesses to register to facilitate international marketing efforts.
Environmental cleanliness is also a key focus, with Madam Gomashie commending Keta residents for maintaining clean beaches. She emphasized that environmental preservation is crucial for Ghana to compete with renowned international beach destinations. The government is also promoting investment in the Marine Drive Project and engaging traditional authorities, such as the Agbogbomefia of Asogli, to attract investors, particularly from China.
President Mahama has shown continuous support for the tourism sector, facilitating a meeting between the Ministry and the Ministry of Finance to secure additional resources. The Ministry anticipates significant growth in tourism, culture, and the creative arts sector from 2027 onwards, driven by increased investment and improved infrastructure.