President John Dramani Mahama’s new administration convened its inaugural Cabinet meeting. However, one notable absence from the list of 19 key ministers was Hon. Abla Dzifa Gomashie, Minister of Tourism, Culture, and Creative Arts. This omission has raised eyebrows, especially since the ministry previously held cabinet status in the former administration.
The exclusion has sparked concerns within the tourism sector, given its significant contribution to Ghana’s economy. According to Statista, Ghana’s travel and tourism industry contributed approximately $3.4 billion to the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in 2022, marking an increase from the $3.1 billion recorded in 2021. The sector was projected to generate about $3.6 billion in 2023, further underscoring its economic importance.
Several industry stakeholders have voiced their concerns over the decision. Francis Doku, West Africa Regional Representative of Africa Tourism Partners, emphasized the tourism sector’s broad impact on multiple industries.
“Tourism is a unique industry that shines a light on all others,” he stated. He highlighted its interconnection with infrastructure development, transport networks, wildlife conservation, marine resources, education, healthcare, and agriculture.
While acknowledging the challenges in selecting a Cabinet team, Mr. Doku stressed that the economic productivity of the tourism sector could not be ignored.
“When tourism thrives, it drives investment in roads and transport systems, encourages the preservation of natural ecosystems, promotes educational exchange through cultural experiences, and stimulates agribusiness by creating demand for local food and beverages,” he explained.
He also pointed out that tourism plays a vital role in foreign exchange earnings, infrastructure development, cultural diplomacy, national branding, and job creation, particularly for the youth.
Ghana has gained global recognition as a leading tourism destination in Africa, with major events such as Afro Future (formerly Afrochella), Afro Nation, and the Chale Wote Festival boosting the country’s international appeal.
“Keeping tourism out of the Cabinet sends the wrong message to stakeholders, investors, and the global travel community about Ghana’s commitment to sustaining this momentum,” Mr. Doku warned.
Culture and tourism advocate PaJohn Bentsifi Dadson also weighed in on the matter, emphasizing that perception plays a crucial role in governance.
“For those outside, knowing their representative is in this inner club provides reassurance that their voices are being heard,” he said.
He noted that despite being Ghana’s third-highest foreign exchange earner, the tourism sector often feels overlooked. Without cabinet representation, the industry risks being relegated to a secondary role, which could undermine its growth.
However, he remained optimistic that a determined minister could still drive progress. Given the multifaceted nature of the tourism industry, he stressed the importance of cross-sector collaboration.
“For instance, improving roads to tourist sites like Kakum National Park in the Central Region requires coordination with the Roads Minister or the Local Government Minister,” he explained.
Mr. Dadson further noted that cabinet membership enhances the sector’s influence, stating, “When you are in Cabinet, the regard is a lot higher than the common floor members.”
Media personality and host of Showbiz A-Z, Kwame Dadzie, also expressed his views, urging the government to reconsider its decision.
“Given the vast contributions and potential of the tourism sector, the Ministry deserves a seat at the highest decision-making table,” he said.
He called on the administration to ensure that tourism remains a top priority in Ghana’s national development strategy.
As industry players continue to push for greater recognition of tourism in government decision-making, the sector’s future role in national development remains a critical topic of discussion.
