Comments, notes from the TOUGHA event

The inauguration of new executives of the Tour Operators Union of Ghana (TOUGHA) attracted a large number of participants including the Minister of Tourism, Mrs. Juliana Azumah Mensah.

Mrs Azumah-Mensah and members of various tourism trade associations such as the Hotels, Car Rentals, Chefs, Traditional Caterers, Forex Bureau, and their umbrella organization, the Ghana Tourism Federation (GHATOF). Chairman for the occasion was Nana Akuoko Sarpong, Omanhene of Agogo Traditional Area and member of the Council of State. Conspicuously absent was the Ghana Tourist Board officials.

Many pertinent issues were raised by speakers during the occasion and here are some of them.

— “The Chinese Embassy has recommended Ghana as a favourite destination for Chinese tourists. The embassy is therefore working with the Ministry of Tourism to connect Chinese Travel Agencies with their Ghanaian counterparts to bring Chinese holiday makers to visit Ghana.” Hon. Azumah Mensah, Minister of Tourism said.

— “TOUGHA has started a basic French course for its members. This will enhance   the smooth development of cross-country tourism with neighbouring francophone countries. Bon!” Mr. Newlands Hiamey, outgoing TOUGHA, Secretary.

— “None of our political parties has shown serious commitment to the conservation of the country's wildlife and environment. All our rivers are drying up and our precious wildlife species are getting extinct.” Nana Akuoko Sarpong, Chief of Agogo, Member Council of State.

— “Tour operators should give religious tourism a serious thought. All the churches — the Presbyterian Church for example — have interesting historic sites that can be included in their itineraries. It will help inculcate good morals among travelers.” Rev. G. O. Kwapong, Victory Presbyterian Church, Adenta.

— “Apart from the hassle of cross-border travel within ECOWAS, there are too many police barriers in the country itself. The short 30km or so distance from Cape Coast to Kakum National Park has four barriers. Why?” Gordon Adoboe, President, TOUGHA.