By Jones Anlimah
Seventeen industry players have been honoured at the 2024 Volta Regional Tourism Awards for their remarkable achievements in boosting the region’s tourism.
The theme for the event was “Celebrating Innovation and Recognizing Excellence in Ghana’s Tourism Sector.” The Volta Regional Tourism Awards seeks to rrecogniseand celebrate outstanding contributions to the growth of tourism in the region.
The awards ceremony provided a platform for stakeholders to also network and share ideas on how to further enhance tourism in the Volta Region. A total of 17 industry actors were recognised for their contributions toward the growth of tourism in the region.
The theme for the event, “Celebrating Innovation and Recognising Excellence in Ghana’s Tourism Sector,” highlights the innovation and excellence that have driven growth in the region’s tourism industry.
The Volta Regional Director of the Ghana Tourism Authority, Mr. Johny Arthur-Quam, commended the recipients and other industry players for their creativity and innovation, which have not only attracted tourists but also helped position the Volta Region as a top destination in Ghana.
“The theme for this year’s awards, ‘Celebrating Innovation and Recognising Excellence in Ghana’s Tourism Sector,’ is not just a reflection of our aspirations but a call to action. It reminds us that the future of tourism in Ghana depends on our ability to embrace change, innovate, and push the boundaries of what is possible,” he said.
Mr. Arthur-Quam added, “Innovation is more than just new technology or modern infrastructure; it’s about reimagining how we share our stories, how we perceive our heritage, and how we engage with our visitors in ways that are meaningful and sustainable.”
The Director of Administration at the Ghana Tourism Authority, Mr. Richard Agyenim Boateng, said the Authority is keen on promoting sustainable tourism across the country, with the Volta Region being a key focus. He noted that there would be continued investment in infrastructure and tourism initiatives to further boost the sector.
“Tourism is a multi-stakeholder enterprise, requiring the full commitment of all stakeholders to ensure a truly vibrant tourism destination,” he remarked.
The Volta Regional Director for the Center for National Culture, Mrs. Lydia Nyarko Ampomaa, said tourism is a significant driver of the region’s economy, continuing to create jobs and stimulate development. According to her, the Volta Region’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty make it a unique destination, and she urged industry players to strengthen efforts to boost local patronage.
“Tourism is a key pillar in Ghana’s economic development. The government remains committed to supporting this sector by improving infrastructure, strengthening policies, and promoting tourism investments,” Mrs. Ampomaa said.
Categories for the awards included 4-, 3-, 2-, and 1-star hotels of the year, guest house of the year, restaurant of the year, fast-food establishment of the year, and traditional catering (chop bar) of the year.
Other categories were drinking bar of the year, tour guide of the year, site guide of the year, visitor attraction of the year, media/digital tourism of the year, corporate organisation of the year, and car rental of the year.
The Volta Regional Minister, Dr. Archibald Letsa, received a special honorary award in absentia.