Ghana’s tourism industry achieved historic growth in 2024, generating $4.8 billion, the highest revenue ever recorded, according to the 2024 Ghana Tourism Report released by the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA).
The report, themed “Growth and Stability,” revealed a 12 per cent increase in international arrivals, reaching 1.288 million visitors. This surge was driven mainly by tourists from the United States, Nigeria, and the United Kingdom, with Nigerian visitors alone rising by 25 per cent.
Events such as “December in GH” boosted the sector, with international visitors spending an average of 22 nights and over $700 daily, highlighting Ghana’s appeal as a top heritage and leisure destination.
Domestic tourism also rose, recording 1.68 million visits to major sites like the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park, Kakum National Park, and Bunso Arboretum, a 19 per cent year-on-year increase.
The hospitality sector expanded with 6,702 licensed enterprises in 2024, up from 5,786 in 2023, while hotel occupancy and average tourist expenditure per trip rose to $3,742. Cruise tourism grew significantly as fourteen cruise ships docked, bringing over 12,600 passengers, a 38 per cent increase.
GTA CEO Maame Efua Huoadjeto said that despite global economic pressures, the sector remained on a strong upward trajectory thanks to collaboration with the private sector, workforce training, and improved regulatory compliance.
“The report reflects our achievements and sets the stage for a resilient, inclusive, and competitive tourism sector,” she said.
The report highlighted the positive impact of key events like PANAFEST Emancipation, Kwahu Paragliding Festival, and Dirty December, which boosted economic activity and created jobs across the regions.
Mrs. Huoadjeto emphasised sustainable tourism practices, including eco-tourism and climate-sensitive management, to ensure benefits for local communities and protect Ghana’s natural and cultural heritage.
Deputy Minister of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Mr. Yussif Jajah, underlined the importance of data-driven policy making, noting the report’s alignment with global standards from the UN World Tourism Organisation and the African Union Agenda 2063.
He credited the sector’s success to support for the creative industry, hospitality training, public-private partnerships, and digitalisation efforts.
While celebrating gains, Mr. Jajah acknowledged challenges such as limited site access, the need for better customer service, insufficient private investment, and regional disparities.
He said the ministry would focus on implementing the National Tourism Development Plan, promoting regional clusters, and renewing the strategy to position Ghana as Africa’s tourism, culture, and creative arts hub.
“Let us tell the Ghana story boldly, with data, passion, and purpose,” he said.
