The Minister for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Madam Abla Dzifa Gomashie, has urged local government leaders in the Central Region to take bold steps to invest in the region’s rich cultural and historical sites.
Speaking during her visit to Cape Coast for the launch of PANAFEST and Emancipation 2025, Madam Gomashie told Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) that heritage sites must become key drivers of economic development.
She said the region holds some of Ghana’s most iconic monuments, including castles and forts that tell the story of the transatlantic slave trade. According to her, these sites must be seen as more than just historical relics.
“We must begin to see these sites not just as remnants of the past, but as living monuments with the potential to transform our communities economically and culturally,” the Minister said.
She urged the MMDCEs to collaborate and develop innovative plans to enhance and promote these attractions.. She added that beautifying and maintaining tourist sites can boost local revenue and bring more jobs to the communities.
Madam Gomashie emphasized the importance of strengthening institutions such as the Ghana Museums and Monuments Board (GMMB). She pointed out that the board lacks full offices in all 16 regions. Providing these agencies with the necessary support will help preserve Ghana’s unique historical identity.
The Central Regional Minister, Mr. Eduamoah Ekow Panyin Oyere, backed the call and advised the MMDCEs to develop better financial strategies to support tourism. He urged them to treat heritage assets as tools for growth and invest in their upkeep and promotion.
During her tour, Madam Gomashie visited the Cape Coast Castle, one of Ghana’s top historical landmarks and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. She spoke about its global importance and Ghana’s role in the wider story of slavery and resistance.
She was joined by Deputy Minister Mr. Yussif Issaka Jajah, Chief Director of the Ministry Mr. Joseph Kwasi Amoah, Ghana Tourism Authority CEO Mrs. Maame Efua Houadjeto, and other directors from the ministry and its agencies.
The visit was part of efforts to promote domestic tourism and inspire stronger community partnerships around Ghana’s cultural sites.
