World Tourism Day 2024

CAPE COAST, GHANA – In celebration of World Tourism Day on September 27, 2024, the Central Region branch of the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA), in collaboration with the Cape Coast Metropolitan Authority (CCMA), spearheaded a major beach clean-up exercise at the Breeze Pub along the University of Cape Coast (UCC) – Elmina stretch of the N1 Highway. The initiative also saw participation from pubs and businesses along this key route, which has emerged as a significant stopover for travellers heading to the Western Region of Ghana and also the center of Night life in Cape Coast.

Charles Buabin, the Regional Director of the GTA for the Central Region, emphasized the importance of maintaining cleanliness in promoting tourism. “You cannot have tourism in an environment of chaos and dirt,” Buabin stated. He highlighted that the choice of location was deliberate, as the stretch from UCC to Elmina has now become a primary rest stop for tourists and travellers to destinations like Takoradi and other parts of the Western Region.

With the backdrop of the upcoming national elections, Buabin underscored the need for peace and cooperation, remarking, “As an election year approaches, it is vital that we accommodate each other so we can continue enjoying tourism after the election.”

Joel Opare-Asare, a representative of the Cape Coast Mayor, Hon. Ernest Arthur, expressed his pride in Cape Coast’s historical significance in Ghana’s tourism landscape. “Tourism is Cape Coast,” Opare-Asare said. “You cannot speak about the history of Ghana without mentioning Cape Coast. On a day like World Tourism Day, it is an opportunity to join the GTA in promoting not only tourism but also a clean and welcoming city.”

He also called on potential investors to collaborate with the CCMA, highlighting the untapped potential of over 20 tourist sites in the Central Region. “There is a huge opportunity here, and we are calling on investors to come on board and partner with the CCMA to develop these sites,” Opare-Asare noted.

The CEO of Breeze Pub, Noah Dekowski, , acknowledged the recognition by the GTA as a positive development for businesses along the route. “It’s a big deal being recognised by the GTA today. It’s a plus for our business,” Dekowski remarked. However, he pointed out the challenges in maintaining the beach, noting that open spaces require constant upkeep. “We provide waste bins at strategic points on our premises and ensure the beach is cleaned daily. Unfortunately, many beaches are no longer well-maintained, so creating awareness through initiatives like this is crucial for sustaining tourism,” he added.

The clean-up exercise, organised in partnership with Zoomlion Ghana Limited and local pubs and bars along the UCC -Elmina stretch, reflects the commitment of the local authorities to ensure Cape Coast remains a hub for tourism in Ghana. The event drew attention to the importance of cleanliness, especially as Cape Coast continues to play a central role in the country’s tourism industry.

Background on World Tourism Day

World Tourism Day, celebrated annually on September 27, is a global observance day designated by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) to foster awareness about the role of tourism in international communities and its impact on cultural, social, political, and economic values. The theme for the 2024 celebration is “Tourism and Peace,” recognising the significant role tourism plays in fostering peace and understanding among people from diverse cultures.

Looking Forward

With tourism being a significant driver of economic development in the Central Region, the collaboration between the GTA, CCMA, and local businesses along the UCC – Elmina stretch of the N1 Highway is a promising step toward ensuring a clean and peaceful environment for both tourists and residents alike.

As Cape Coast gears up for another peak tourist season, the Christmas Holiday’s, the commitment to cleanliness and sustainability along key tourist routes is expected to enhance the region’s appeal and ensure long-term growth for local businesses.