Tourism, as has been noted, is not just about travel, but connection. It allows engagement with diverse communities, learning from one another and appreciating our shared humanity.
As the Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Egyapa Mercer, recently observed: “Through tourism, we can break down barriers and build bridges of understanding, fostering a spirit of peace and cooperation”.
Especially in a world where divisions often seem more pronounced than ever, tourism emerges as a powerful vehicle for fostering dialogue, understanding and reconciliation across culture and nations.
It is heartwarming to see destination Ghana increasingly becoming better organised. The Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA), after successfully hosting regional events across the country to reward local achievements in tourism and allied activities, last Friday hosted the grand national celebration to present several esteemed industry professionals and organisations in various categories with their accolades, giving them a plaque and citation.
Everybody likes awards – An acknowledgement of a job well done, and justification for the agony that goes into winning them. They bring about a “feel good factor” that gives validation to boost confidence.
The benefits of winning awards cannot be underestimated. It’s significance lies in how much of a prestige the awarding institution wields. This can contribute considerably to the future success of recipients, raising their profile and reputation. And when they are business awards, they can significantly bring about some great free PR.
Here are the of the 2023 National Tourism Award-winners
Accommodation
In the accommodation category, the following came tops as Overall Best.
5-Star – Labadi Beach, Greater Accra
4-Star – Royal Senchi, Eastern
3-Star – Golden Bean, Ashanti
2-Star – Sogakope Beach Resort, Volta
1-Star – GRNMA Hotel, Central
Guest House – Brynx Haven, Central
Budget – Jonas Lodge, Upper East
Hostel – De-Blast Hostel, Tema
Service Apartments – Veronique Heights, Ashanti
Food, Beverage and Entertainment
Grade 1 – MOKA’S Greater Accra
Grade 2 – The Buka, Greater Accra
Grade 3 – Conemm Catering – Upper East
Traditional – God is Love, Western
Fast Food – Shoprite Ghana, Western
Drinking Bar – King David Spot, Northern
Night Club – Exhale Lounge, Greater Accra
Offshore/Airline catering – Servair Ghana
Travel trade
Tour operator – Ashanti African Tours, Central
Travel agency – Satguru Travel & Tours, Greater Accra
Car rentals – Nii Plants, Greater Accra
Tour guide – Mr Fuseni Nawaru, Eastern
Site guide – Justice Brobbey, Ashanti
Visitor attraction – Bisa Abrewa Museum, Western
Digital tourism icon – SDK DELE- Greater Accra
Tourism-oriented media – CITI FM/Channel One TV
Sustainability Award – Eusbett Hotel, Bono
Honorary award
Long-standing Commitment to Quality Events Service – CEO of Jandel, Afi Amoro
Long-standing Commitment to Promoting Tourism through Advertising – CEO of Mullen Lowe Ghana, Norkor Dua
Outstanding Leadership in Tourism Development – Chief of Kyeremankoma, Kintampo & Kronko, Nana Effah Guakro IV
Traditional Leadership in Tourism Preservation – Acting President, National Council of Zongo Chiefs & President of National Council of Wangara Chiefs, Masaaba Sariki Fayinana III
Outstanding Contributions to Diaspora Engagement – Executive Director at PANAFEST Secretariat, Rabbi Kohain Nathanyah Helevi
Outstanding Contribution to Promoting Tourism through Events – CEO, Charter House, Theresa Ayoade
Outstanding Events Visionary – Co-founder of Afrofuture, Kennedy Agyapong Jnr
Woman of Excellence in Public Service – Former Chief Director, Ministry of Tourism, Bridget Katsriku
Special awards
Contributions to the industry – Mrs Oboshie Sai Cofie & Dr. Crystal-Adjirackor.
