Accra: Dr. Kwesi Eyison, CEO of Pacific Tours, has urged Madam Abla Dzifa Gomashie, the newly appointed Minister for Tourism, Culture, and Creative Arts, to embrace a comprehensive strategy in managing the tourism sector, avoiding any partiality towards the arts.
According to Ghana News Agency, Dr. Eyison highlighted the vast and interconnected nature of the tourism industry, which includes sectors such as accommodation, transport, food and beverage services, travel, trade, attractions, event management, the arts, and special interest tourism activities. He advised the incoming minister to avoid focusing solely on one sector as it could negatively impact the industry as a whole.
Dr. Eyison stated, "The tourism industry is very diverse and integrated. It is essential to strike a balance and integrate all components for the sector to thrive." Madam Gomashie's appointment by President John Mahama on January 16 to head the Ministry of Tourism, Culture, and Creative Arts has sparked discussions on the direction she will take in leading the sector.
In an interview, Dr. Eyison expressed hope that Madam Gomashie's experience as a former Deputy Minister would aid her in navigating the complex dynamics of the tourism industry. He noted the sector's significant challenges due to recent economic crises and encouraged the new minister to bring renewed energy to help it recover and grow.
One of the key areas of focus, Dr. Eyison suggested, should be increasing inbound tourism to attract more international visitors, which would boost foreign exchange earnings and address issues like the depreciation of the Ghanaian cedi and foreign direct investment. He also pointed out the need to address the multitude of taxes and levies that burden the industry.
Dr. Eyison emphasized tourism's role as an economic driver, advocating for it to be seen as integral to national economic development. He urged Madam Gomashie to familiarize herself with the draft National Tourism Policy and Cultural Policy, which offer valuable frameworks for advancing the sector.
He stressed the importance of collaborating with private sector trade associations and the sector skills body under the Commission for Technical and Vocational Education Training (CTVET) to drive progress. Infrastructure development, both tangible and intangible, along with an environment conducive to youth skills and entrepreneurship, were also highlighted as crucial elements for sector growth.
Dr. Eyison noted the importance of enhancing service quality and customer experience through skills development initiatives. On the Marine Drive project, he urged the minister to assess and address any challenges impeding its progress, recognizing its potential benefits.
He advocated for a shift in mindset, emphasizing the need for tourism to be prioritized alongside sectors such as health, education, agriculture, and gender issues. Dr. Eyison concluded by congratulating Madam Gomashie on her appointment and expressing confidence in her ability to lead the sector effectively, given her past experience and discipline.
He called on industry practitioners to support and collaborate with the new minister, regardless of political affiliations, to promote destination Ghana and improve the visitor experience, stating, "We all depend on tourism for our livelihoods, so it is crucial to work together to drive the industry forward."