Jirapa: The Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) in the Upper West Region marked World Tourism Day by planting various species of trees, including fruit trees, as part of a celebration themed ‘Tourism and Sustainable Transformation’. The event was held in Jirapa at the Royal Cossy Hills, colloquially known as ‘Jirapa Dubai’, and was organized under the auspices of the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture in collaboration with Royal Cossy Hills and Dellagio Hotel.
According to Ghana News Agency, the initiative was part of the Green Ghana project, aiming to create a more resilient and greener environment to enhance Ghana’s attractiveness as a tourist destination while supporting local economic growth. The event also sought to raise awareness within the international community about the cultural, social, and economic value and benefits of tourism.
Mr. Moses Ndewin Ndebugri, the Upper West Regional Director of GTA, emphasized during an interview that this year’s event highlighted tourism’s potential to drive inclusive, equitable, and environmentally responsible growth. He reiterated the importance of sustainable practices in the tourism sector, which plays a crucial role in the country’s national heritage and socioeconomic development.
The Director stressed the need for forest education to discourage deforestation and encourage tree planting, which can help mitigate climate change effects. He urged residents to establish tree nurseries across various communities to boost tourism in the region. Mr. Ndebugri further noted that the World Tourism Day celebrations would significantly contribute to the sustainability and development of the region due to its tourism potential.
In addition to tree planting, the Authority organized a tour for 30 students from St. Francis Roman Catholic Primary School to the Royal Cossy Hills Safari, where they experienced the area’s ecology and wildlife, including hippopotamuses, lions, zebras, antelopes, jackals, monkeys, and tortoises. Mrs. Galku Rina, the headmistress of St. Francis Roman Catholic School, expressed gratitude to the Ghana Tourism Authority for selecting the school to participate in this year’s World Tourism Day celebration.
Some students shared that the experience had positively impacted their lives, enriching their learning and deepening their understanding of wildlife and cultural heritage.