The Deputy Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mark Okraku Mantey, has stated that the tourism sector, one of fastest-growing industries in the country, needs media support to sustain progress.
The sector contributed US$2.1billion to the economy in 2021 and was estimated to have generated about US$2.3billion by the end of the year 2022, making it one of the fastest-growing sectors. Against this background, Mr. Okraku said the support of the media is needed to highlight key tourist attraction sites across the country so as to attract more tourists, both internal and external.
If well promoted, he said, the sector has potential to contribute to economic growth and job creation.
For instance, the Volta Region alone recorded 27,795 tourists and generated a revenue of GH₵281,527 in 2021; and in 2022, the region saw a boost in tourist numbers, reaching a total of 44,676 visitors and generating a revenue of GH₵626,282.
These developments, the deputy minister said, are significant. He, however, added that more still needs to be done to harness the full potential of the tourism industry.
“The tourism industry has become a vital stimulant to other sectors of the economy, such as agriculture, real estate, manufacturing and transportation; hence, the need to highlight, promote and support the sector to attract more tourists and investors for the greater development of the country.
“The media has a critical role to play when it comes to promoting and protecting our culture, heritage and tradition as well as tourism. It has the responsibility to let the people know this fundamental truth of how well the sector is doing, and draw international attention to the several historic and tourist sites in the country,” he said.
He reiterated the importance of dedicating more coverage to cultural activities and traditional ceremonies, such as festivals, religious ceremonies and cultural performances, through live coverage, documentary and editorial features.
He urged media organisations to put in place policies that give priority to culture and tourism to help preserve and promote traditions for future generations.
Reiterating the important role of the media in the preservation and promotion of the culture and heritage of a people, Mark Okraku said over the past three years, a lot of diasporas have come to Ghana and some continue to come; therefore, the need to leverage the power of the media as a tool to make the culture of the nation influence economic development.
He commended the media for initiatives, such as the Waakye Summit, Akple and the Gobe Festival held recently to throw more light on local delicacies.
“There is a positive correlation between culture and economic growth of a people, and the media must understand this as well as the important role marketing plays in achieving development,” he emphasised.
