News
Mrs Alisa Osei-Asamoah bows out of TOUGHA leadership with Thanksgiving Dinner
After four impactful years at the helm of the Tour Operators Union of Ghana (TOUGHA), Mrs Alisa Osei-Asamoah marked the end of her presidency with a heartfelt Thanksgiving Dinner on Sunday, May 25, 2025 at the Labadi Beach Hotel in Accra.
The elegant evening brought together members of the Union, tourism industry stakeholders, close associates and well-wishers in a spirit of appreciation and celebration. It was a fitting farewell for a leader whose tenure was marked by excellence, innovation and a tireless commitment to the growth of not just the organisation that she led, but also, Ghana’s tourism sector.
In her speech, Mrs Osei-Asamoah shared the inspiration behind the dinner,“I am here to express my utmost appreciation to God Almighty for seeing me through my tenure as the President of TOUGHA.”
She said, “He’s been faithful throughout my administration, and I’m glad you’re here to join me to show my appreciation.”
The evening served not only as a moment of spiritual reflection but also as a platform for honouring those who played key roles in her successful administration. Mrs Osei-Asamoah presented citations and gift packages to individuals who supported her throughout her leadership, in what she described as a gesture of sincere gratitude.
“These people have helped and worked closely with me during my tenure, and I felt it was only proper that I show my gratitude for their help,” she added.
Guests were treated to a sumptuous buffet accompanied by flowing drinks, lively music and dancing that fostered a mood of camaraderie and celebration.
One of the most memorable moments of the evening came when the Bono Chapter of TOUGHA presented Mrs Osei-Asamoah with a citation in honour of her outstanding leadership. The citation praised her transformative contributions to the Union and Ghana’s wider tourism landscape.
“Under your stewardship, TOUGHA has flourished as a beacon of advocacy for a regulated and sustainable tourism industry. Your visionary guidance has not only elevated the standards of the Union but has also significantly contributed to the enhancement of Ghana’s tourism landscape,” the citation read.
It concluded with a message of admiration and hope: “We, members of the Bono Region, extend our heartfelt gratitude for your exemplary service and leadership, and we look forward to your continued contributions to the growth and development of Ghana’s tourism industry.”
Adding to the honours, the Advisory Board leadership, which served alongside Mrs Osei-Asamoah during her tenure, also presented her with a citation on behalf of the Union, recognising her exemplary service and leadership.
As Mrs Alisa Osei-Asamoah steps into a new chapter, her legacy as TOUGHA’s immediate past president remains firmly etched in the hearts of those she led, inspired and empowered. Her tenure will be remembered for its strategic vision, strong advocacy and unwavering passion for tourism development in Ghana.
News
‘Thousands of Ghanaian women suffering from Obstetric Fistula’
Thousands of Ghanaian women continue to suffer in silence from Obstetric Fistula (OF) due to inadequate access to surgical treatment, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) has revealed.
Dr Wilfred Ochan, UNFPA’s Country Representative, disclosed that over the past decade, Ghana has accumulated a backlog of more than 12,000 untreated cases, despite recording an estimated 1,300 new cases each year.
He made the remarks during a visit to the New Times Corporation (NTC) in Accra to mark the International Day to End Obstetric Fistula (IDEOF).
“Only 1,000 repairs have been done in 10 years. That leaves thousands of women isolated, in pain, and excluded from society due to a condition that is both preventable and treatable,” Dr Ochan said.
He stressed the need for greater investment in surgical capacity, public awareness, and partnership, especially with the private sector— to accelerate Ghana’s efforts to eliminate the condition by 2030.
Obstetric Fistula results from prolonged or obstructed labour without timely medical care, causing a hole between the birth canal and bladder or rectum, leading to continuous leakage of urine or faeces. The consequences include stigma, chronic incontinence, and often, the death of the baby.
To help close the treatment gap, the UNFPA is working with health institutions including the Komfo Anokye and Cape Coast Teaching hospitals to scale up surgeries and outreach.
“We must not allow women to suffer lifelong trauma for simply trying to give life,” Dr Ochan urged.
The Managing Director, Mr Martin Adu-Owusu, pledged NTC’s support in raising public awareness and promoting maternal health initiatives.
“We are ready to collaborate with you to ensure that maternal deaths and issues affecting women come down to the barest minimum so that together we can achieve the UN goal to eliminating Obstetric Fistula by 2030,” he said
By Esinam Jemima Esinam
News
Inflated prices of Abaya, Jalabiya on Eid-al-Adha celebration
Muslims in Ghana and all over the world yesterday observed the Eid-al-Adha celebration.
It falls on the first day of Shawwal, the 10th month of the Islamic calendar and is celebrated by Muslims to mark the end of the month-long dawn-to-dusk fasting of Ramadan.
The build up to yesterday’s edition was characterised by a high demand for traditional Islamic attire here in Tamale, leading to a sharp rise in prices.
Checks by The Spectator from the various markets in the Tamale area revealed that prices for popular outfits like the Abaya, Jalabiya, and Kaftan have skyrocketed within the period.
Although there is no prescribed outfit for the celebration, many Muslims in Tamale traditionally choose modest and loose-fitting garments that reflect Islamic values.
Abayas and Jalabiyas often imported from Turkey, Dubai, Egypt, and Northern Nigeria have become particularly the most sought-after attires, resulting in the price hikes.
Currently, prices for men’s attire range from GH₵250 to GH₵800 while women’s outfits are selling from GH₵350 to GH₵1000.
Children’s garments are also not left out of the pricing craze. Bargaining for the youngsters starts from GH₵150.
Hajia Naila Abdul Karim, owner of ‘Cover with Style,’ confirmed a significant surge in sales in the holy month.
“Each day, more than 20 people, mostly women walk into the shop. We also send over 40 parcels daily to customers across the country,” she stated.
She attributed the price increases to the cedi’s depreciation and a recent shortage of Turkish imports, noting that most of her stock now comes from Dubai.
Hamdia Kamil, a loyal customer, shared her experience: “Two years ago, I bought an Abaya for GH₵350. This year, it’s GH₵650. I had no choice because it’s a special occasion and I want to feel good. Still, I hope the dresses are made affordable so others can also celebrate in style.”
At Baby Last Closet in Sakasaka, another fashion outlet, prices for women’s outfits range from GH₵350 to GH₵1,300, while men’s attire goes from GH₵250 to GH₵1,000.
“Some customers complain about the cost, but because it’s Ramadan, many still go ahead and buy,” said the shop owner.
Similarly, Mandy’s Haven at Zogbeli sells exclusively for Eid celebrations, dealing in high-end Abayas, Jalabiyas, and Kaftan materials. Prices there reflect quality and origin, with female attire ranging from GH₵450 to GH₵5,000, and kaftan fabric sold at GH₵200 per yard.
For many, including resident Iddrisu Suale, the holy month remains a sacred period despite the economic pressures. “Things are expensive this year, but I still want to make the day special for my children. I plan to get them Abayas and Jalabiyas from Egypt,” he indicated.
Despite the bustling nature of preparation and the high cost of goods, resident expressed optimism of having a good time in observing the deep spiritual significance of the occasion.
Story & photos by Paul Dery
