The Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA), led by its CEO, Mrs. Maame Efua Houadjeto, paid a significant courtesy call on the Ga Mantse, Nii Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, at the Ga Mantse Palace today, May 7, 2025. 

The visit marked the Authority’s first official engagement with the traditional leadership since Houadjeto’s appointment and underscored GTA’s commitment to deepening partnerships that drive tourism development in the Greater Accra Region.

Accompanied by her team of directors, the CEO expressed the Authority’s intent to foster closer collaboration with traditional authorities—describing them as “landlords” whose role is vital in safeguarding and promoting local tourist attractions.

“Greater Accra is home to several key tourist sites—forts, castles, the Jamestown Lighthouse area, and even the monkey sanctuary. These are not just national treasures but also important cultural landmarks that require local collaboration for effective promotion,” Houadjeto noted.

The engagement also highlighted the President’s flagship initiative, the ‘Black Star Experience’, which is designed to position Ghana—particularly Greater Accra—as a vibrant, must-visit destination for heritage, history, and cultural immersion. 

As part of the Experience, key cultural sites and festivals are being enhanced to provide visitors with authentic and memorable interactions with Ghana’s rich traditions.

During the meeting, discussions focused on how to strengthen cooperation ahead of the upcoming Homowo Festival. 

The Ga Mantse emphasized the importance of tourism in amplifying the significance of traditional festivals, and the CEO pledged GTA’s full support in elevating Homowo into a key cultural tourism highlight on the national calendar.

“Our goal is to work hand-in-hand with the Ga State to ensure this year’s Homowo is not only grand but also strategically positioned to attract both local and international tourists,” she said.

Challenges were also raised around tourism infrastructure and community engagement—particularly in the Jamestown area.

Mrs. Houadjeto acknowledged that although GTA had established a tourist centre near the lighthouse to organize guided tours, local oversight had waned following the passing of the centre’s original manager. In the absence of structured management, community youth had taken over operations informally.

“We’ve visited the site and identified the need for reorientation and training. We want to help the youth understand the importance of proper tourism management and equip them with the knowledge to enhance the visitor experience,” she explained. 

She said, plans are also underway to support local efforts in cleaning and beautifying the area to meet tourist expectations.

Additionally, the visit touched on Ghana’s upcoming role in hosting the AU-backed FESTAC Africa Renaissance Festival , the 6th World’s Black and Africans Festival of Arts and Culture which celebrates the heritage, food, fashion, and customs of African countries.

 Ghana is set to host this prestigious cultural exchange, and GTA is preparing to launch a comprehensive public announcement on the festival’s events and impact.

“FESTAC offers Ghana a unique opportunity to showcase our rich cultural heritage on a continental stage and attract greater international recognition,” Houadjeto added.

The visit concluded with assurances of continued collaboration between the Ghana Tourism Authority and traditional leaders in advancing tourism as a tool for cultural pride and economic development through the Black Star Experience.