Ministry of Tourism reopens Ussher Fort and James Fort with immediate effect

The Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts has reopened Ussher Fort and James Fort to the general public with immediate effect.

The decision follows a period of temporary closure to allow for safety reviews and restoration works at the historic sites in Accra.

The reopening takes effect under strict access controls to protect visitors and ongoing conservation activities.

The two forts were among five historic sites closed by the Ghana Museums and Monuments Board (GMMB) for maintenance and safety assessments.

The closure, which took effect from December 18, also affected Fort Apollonia in Beyin, Fort St. Anthony in Axim and Fort Orange in Sekondi.

The GMMB said at the time that the move was necessary to safeguard both visitors and the structural integrity of the forts.

The Board explained that the directive was issued purely in the interest of public safety and heritage preservation while critical upkeep works were undertaken.

Announcing the reopening in a statement dated December 22, the Ministry said consultations with the GMMB had resulted in measures that allow controlled public access without compromising safety or restoration efforts.

“Subsequent to the temporary closure, reviews and consultations with the Ghana Museums and Monuments Board have resulted in adequate safety measures to allow controlled public access to the sites without compromising visitor safety or the integrity of ongoing restoration activities,” the statement said in part.

“The earlier directive to close the Forts was issued purely in the interest of public safety. We appreciate the cooperation and understanding demonstrated by the general public,” it added.

The ministry stressed that visitors, tour guides and operators must comply fully with the new access guidelines and that unauthorised entry into restricted areas remains prohibited as restoration works continue.