Cape Coast MP raises concerns over high hotel rates, warns of threat to tourism

The Member of Parliament for Cape Coast North, Dr Kwamena Minta Nyarku, has raised concerns over what he describes as excessive hotel charges in Cape Coast, warning that high accommodation costs could discourage tourists from visiting the historic city.

According to the MP, the rising cost of accommodation could become a major deterrent for visitors seeking to experience Cape Coast’s historical, cultural and natural attractions, potentially undermining efforts to position the city as a leading tourism destination.

Dr Nyarku made the remarks during the second edition of a forum and fundraising event organised to support the implementation of Cape Coast’s eight-year development plan. The event was held on Thursday, August 13, 2026, at the School of Graduate Studies Auditorium of the University of Cape Coast.

He challenged the perception that Cape Coast had already attained its full potential as a tourism hub, arguing that the city must broaden its attractions beyond the Cape Coast Castle and improve the overall experience of visitors.

He said an attractive tourism destination must combine historical and cultural attractions with affordable accommodation, reliable security, efficient transportation and quality entertainment.

Dr Nyarku noted that tourism remains an important contributor to Cape Coast’s local economy, with the city’s historical landmarks, particularly the Cape Coast Castle, attracting visitors from Ghana and beyond.

He said the tourism industry supports several businesses, including hotels, restaurants, tour operators, transport operators and other small enterprises, but warned that high accommodation charges could undermine these economic benefits if visitors begin to consider Cape Coast too expensive.

Responding to the concerns, the Cape Coast Metropolitan Chief Executive, Hon. George Justice Arthur, assured participants that he would soon engage hotel owners and managers to discuss the issue.

The planned engagement comes ahead of the Oguaa Fetu Afahye festival, an annual cultural celebration that attracts thousands of visitors to Cape Coast to experience the city’s heritage and traditions.

Meanwhile, the Administrator of the District Assemblies Common Fund (DACF) and Special Guest of Honour at the forum, Mr Michael Harry Yamson, called on the Cape Coast Metropolitan Assembly to incorporate viable businesses into its eight-year development plan to create employment opportunities for young people.

He also cautioned the Assembly to establish effective mechanisms for recovering funds invested in proposed development projects.

According to Mr Yamson, failure to generate revenue from such projects and recoup the resources invested could result in public funds being wasted, defeating the purpose of the development initiatives.