Stop begging tourists for tips, It damages Ghana’s image - Mahama

President John Dramani Mahama has directed airport workers to desist from soliciting or begging visitors for tips, warning that the practice is damaging Ghana’s image among international travellers.

According to President Mahama, every interaction between a visitor and an airport worker contributes to the perception foreigners form about Ghana.

He said workers across the aviation sector must uphold professionalism, discipline and good hospitality to ensure that visitors receive a positive impression of the country from the moment they arrive.

President Mahama made the remarks on Thursday, August 27, 2026, at a sod-cutting ceremony for the Multi-Tiered, Multi-Purpose Car Park and Airport Hotels Complex at the Accra International Airport.

He commended the Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL), the Ghana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) and other agencies for taking firm measures to address the practice of airport workers soliciting tips from passengers and visitors.

“I’m happy that the Ghana Airports Company Limited and the Civil Aviation Authority and other institutions working at the airport are taking a tough stance against soliciting and begging visitors for tips. It reflects very badly on our country,” President Mahama said.

He stressed that the conduct of airport personnel, including immigration officials, baggage handlers, traffic managers and other service providers, can significantly influence a visitor’s first and final impression of Ghana.

“Every institution and every worker at this airport contributes to Ghana’s image,” he said.

President Mahama further urged workers to prioritise courtesy, efficiency and professionalism in their dealings with travellers, noting that Ghana’s hospitality reputation must be protected.

As part of efforts to enforce the policy, GACL has already dismissed two car park workers following alleged incidents involving the solicitation of tips from passengers.

Meanwhile, the new airport development project is expected to significantly expand facilities and services at the Accra International Airport.

The Multi-Tiered, Multi-Purpose Car Park and Airport Hotels Complex will feature two hotels and more than 2,000 parking spaces, as well as a pedestrian link connecting the development to the terminal.

The project will also include a shopping mall with a food court, retail outlets and office facilities.

In addition, a sky lounge and sky observatory are expected to form part of the development, offering visitors views of aircraft operations at the airport.

The President said such investments must be matched by improved service delivery and professional conduct to ensure that Ghana’s main international gateway reflects the standards expected of a leading destination.