Africa-Press – Ghana. Nana Oye Bampoe-Addo, the Deputy Chief of Staff, has urged stakeholders in the creative arts industry to leverage artificial intelligence (AI) to optimise Ghana’s tourism experience for sustained growth and competitiveness.
Ghana’s tourism potential had expanded significantly with the deployment of technology and AI in destination marketing, tailored travel recommendation platforms, and tools that enhance visitor experiences and forecast tourism trends, she said.
Delivering a speech at the National Tourism Awards 2025 in Accra, Nana Oye said an AI-powered “Visit Ghana” system, capable of real-time translation, accessibility mapping and route planning for international tourists, would be a game changer.
She noted that digitising the country’s heritage and culture was non-negotiable, adding that digital archiving, virtual reality tours and immersive storytelling could project Ghana’s castles, festivals and crafts to millions globally, transforming the nation’s heritage into a sustainable digital export.
The Deputy Chief of Staff said government and the corporate sector must continue to invest in tourism technology hubs, train artisans and local guides in digital tools, and support youth-led tourism start-ups capable of telling Ghana’s story authentically to a global audience.
“These innovations will ensure that our tourism is not just preserved but propelled, creating jobs and deepening our identity as the Black Star of Africa,” she said.
She commended the awardees for their selfless service, excellence and professionalism, noting that their careers and achievements reflected the spirit of Ghana; creativity, resilience and continuous growth.
“Together, let us continue to shape the Black Star Experience, one that celebrates not only our landscapes and heritage but also our people and their ingenuity.
“May your work continue to inspire excellence, innovation and pride in Ghana,” she said.
The 2025 National Tourism Awards were honorary awards organised by the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) with support from RNAQ Holdings.
The awards were categorised into individual, corporate and special awards, with the Ghana Hotels Association receiving the Trade Association of the Year.
King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, Ga Mantse; Odeneho Kwafo Akoto III, Akwamumanhene; Nana Kobina Nketsia V, Omanhene of Essikado; and Pe Dennis Aneakwoa Balinia Adda, Pe Asagipari II, received the Tourism Promotion Award (Traditional Ruler) for their respective regions.
Lakeside Marina Park received the Eco-Tourism Site and Attraction Development of the Year Award for the Greater Accra Region.
Devtraco Plus (The Pelican Hotel) and Lawrencia Sarhene (Veronique Heights) received the Indigenous Tourism Investment (Accommodation) Awards for the Greater Accra and Ashanti Regions, respectively.
Madam Abla Dzifa Gomashie, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, said the National Tourism Awards had, over the years, become the benchmark for quality and professionalism in the sector, adding that stakeholders must continue to strive for excellence.
She said the individuals and institutions honoured represented national ideals through hard work, innovation and service excellence, contributing to Brand Ghana.
“Service that leaves lasting memories is the reason people visit again and again,” Madam Gomashie said.
“We must rethink the quality of service we provide and whether it encourages repeat visits to our country.”
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