During the first Cabinet meeting of President John Dramani Mahama’s new administration on Thursday, February 20, 2025, Hon. Abla Dzifa Gomashie, the Minister of Tourism, Culture, and Creative Arts, was conspicuously missing from the list of 19 ministers who make up the government’s main decision-making body.
Concerns are raised by the Ministry of Tourism, Culture, and Creative Arts’ exclusion, which is all the more astounding given that it was a cabinet member in the previous government.
Ghana’s travel and tourism industry generated around $3.4 billion in GDP in 2022, according to Statista, a worldwide data and business intelligence platform.
This was more than the $3.1 billion that was recorded the year before. It was predicted that the share will increase to an additional $3.6 billion in 2023.
Therefore, several industry participants who have voiced their opinions are not happy about the Tourism Minister’s removal from the government’s highest decision-making body.
“Tourism is a unique industry that shines a light on all others,” remarked Mr. Francis Doku, West Africa Regional Representative of Pan-African tourist advising firm Africa Tourism Partners, in reference to his worries.
He stated that the development of infrastructure, transportation networks, marine resources, forestry and wildlife conservation, education, health care, and agriculture were all closely related to its success.
“When tourism flourishes, it stimulates agribusiness by creating demand for local food and beverages, encourages the preservation of natural ecosystems, drives investment in roads and transportation systems, and promotes educational exchange through cultural experiences,” he added.
Mr. Doku outlined the additional advantages of tourism, such as its role as a significant economic engine, a vital pillar for foreign exchange, the connection between tourism and the development of infrastructure and cultural diplomacy, the creation of jobs and national branding, and youth employment.
Ghana has become well-known around the world as a significant African travel destination. Over the last five years, Ghana’s image has been greatly enhanced by events that take place around December, such as the Chale Wote Festival, Afro Nation, and Afro Future, which was originally known as Afrochella.
“For stakeholders, investors, and the global travel community, keeping tourism out of cabinet sends the wrong message about Ghana’s commitment to maintaining this momentum,” he added.
Culture and Tourism Advocate PaJohn Bentsifi Dadson stated in an interview with Graphic Showbiz that perception was a major factor in the choice to establish a Cabinet, the inner circle where important decisions were made.
Knowing that their representative is a member of this inner club gives individuals outside the club confidence that their opinions are being heard.
Even though it generates the third-highest foreign exchange earnings, the tourist industry is frequently disregarded. The sector’s significance may be diminished if it is excluded from the cabinet and given a supporting role.
A strong-willed minister may still promote change, though. Because of the industry’s complexity, the tourism minister’s responsibilities go beyond ordinary business hours and necessitate cooperation with several sectors.
“For example, in the Central Region, enhancing roads to tourist destinations like Kakum Park requires cooperation with the Road Minister or Local Government Minister,” he stated.
“Being a member of the Cabinet raises the sector’s profile and commands more respect and influence. He went on to say, “I believe that when you are in Cabinet, the regard is much higher than the common floor members.”
Kwame Dadzie, a media personality and host of Showbiz A-Z, stated that the Tourism Ministry should have a place at the top decision-making table because of its enormous accomplishments and potential.
He suggested that the government take another look at this omission and make sure that tourism is still a top priority in Ghana’s national development plan.
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