The Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA), Maame Efua Houadjeto, has urged local tour guides to maintain professionalism when interacting with tourists to uphold the country’s reputation.
This advice comes in light of a recent incident where a video surfaced online showing a local tour guide in Jamestown, Accra, allegedly extorting money from a tourist. Wode Maya, a renowned Ghanaian tourism ambassador, shared the video, prompting Maame Efua to visit the area and investigate the matter.
During her visit, Maame Efua engaged with the tour guide, Daniel Addo, also known as Toucher, to address the issue. She emphasized the importance of providing proper training to local guides to ensure they interact with tourists in a professional and ethical manner.
As the regulators in the tourism sector, the GTA CEO stressed the need to guide local guides in conducting themselves appropriately to maintain the country’s image and reputation. She mentioned that Ga Mashie boasts many tourist sites and attractions, making it crucial for guides to offer their services without tarnishing the country’s image.
Daniel Addo, the tour guide in question, clarified that the tourist voluntarily inquired about supporting a local project and denied any allegations of extortion. He explained that they typically charge a fee of GHC50 for tours, with the proceeds going towards supporting the local community, including volunteer teachers in the area.
In support of Maame Efua’s sentiments, Gilbert Abeiku Aggrey Santana, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of GTA, emphasized the need for local tour guides to share accurate information with tourists and exhibit professionalism in their interactions. He disclosed that the GTA would introduce plans to aid local guides in effectively fulfilling their responsibilities in the coming months.
