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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.
The Bunbong community in the Northern Region was filled with excitement over the weekend as residents gathered at the forecourt of the Bunbong Chief’s Palace to celebrate the annual Linujil festival.
The festival, hosted by the Chief of Bunbong, Uborr Wumbe Dawuni, brought together different tribes including Konkomba, Dagombas, Gonjas, Fulbes, and the Anufus from neighbouring communities to celebrate culture, unity, and tradition through dance, drumming, and colourful performances.
In his address, Uborr Wumbe Dawuni expressed gratitude to the people of Bunbong and surrounding communities for their continuous support. He said the Linujil festival was not only a moment of celebration but also a time to reflect on the community’s values of peace, unity, and respect.
“The Linujil festival reminds us of who we are and where we come from. It strengthens our bond as one people and encourages the younger generation to preserve our cultural heritage,” he said.
The Northern Regional Minister, Ali Adolf, commended the Chief and people of Bunbong for keeping their cultural heritage alive and praised the hardworking farmers for their dedication to yam production.
Mr. Adolf further emphasised that health and education remain key pillars for building stronger communities, assuring the people that government would continue to support them in achieving their developmental goals. He also applauded Rocky Dawuni for his outstanding performance and for promoting the image of Northern Ghana on the international stage.
Mr. Angelo Yossi Dogbe, representative of the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, commended the people of Bunbong for using the Linujil festival to promote cultural tourism and community pride.
Mrs. Cary Sullivan, co-producer of the event and founder of Afro Funke, described the Linujil festival as an inspiring cultural experience that reflects the heart of Ghana’s creative energy.
A major highlight of the event was an electric live performance by Ghanaian music star and son of the land, Rocky Dawuni, whose vibrant show captivated the audience. He was joined on stage by Alidu Mohammed of Playing for Change fame, adding even more excitement to the night.
By Geoffrey Buta, Bunbong
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A new policy from the Ministry of Education (MoE) about the compulsory use of Ghanaian languages as the medium of instruction in basic schools has stirred controversy among the populace, especially parents.
The announcement, made last month by the Minister of Education, Haruna Iddrisu, aims to improve foundational learning and preserve Ghana’s rich linguistic heritage.
The move has been welcomed by some parents, applauding the efforts to keep the local language alive and help children learn and speak them. However, several concerns have been raised in opposition, forcing the ministry to clarify certain parts that seemed not to have been understood.
While some welcomed the move, citing better comprehension and cultural connection for young learners, others raised concerns about its practicality in diverse classrooms.
In a swift reaction, the MoE, through its Deputy Minister, Dr. Clement Apaak, clarified that the new directive issued by the sector minister was strictly limited to the earliest stages of basic education and does not extend across all levels.
In separate interviews conducted by The Spectator, parents remained divided on the policy and proffered diverse solutions to ensure its effectiveness.
“My daughter speaks Twi at home, so learning in Twi will help her grasp concepts faster,” said Mrs. Efia Asante, a mother of two. In her view, since her daughter already has a good grasp of the Twi language, it would be easier for her to understand the teachers.
Mrs. Rebecca Asare told The Spectator she shares the ministry’s explanation, saying that it is important to adopt measures that encourage young children to speak the native languages.
In sharp contrast, Mr. Albert Agyekum from Ablekuma commended the idea but questioned: “Can one teacher speak all the languages in a diverse classroom?”
Mr. Amoako Mark, whose child attends a school without a Ga teacher, wondered how his ward, who speaks only the Ga language, would cope under such circumstances.
Nii Amui also questioned how teachers in a class with children speaking different languages would manage if they cannot speak more than one local language.
Other parents also raised issues about regional language adaptation. Miss Eliza Vikporho argued that children naturally learn the dominant language of their environment. “If you live in the Volta Region, you learn Ewe. That’s how it has always been. Why make it compulsory?” she asked.
Still, others believe the policy could foster unity and elevate lesser-known Ghanaian languages.
By Beatrice Wonovi Kpeglah
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