The Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) has a new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) in Maame Efua Houadjeto, a former Deputy Women’s Organiser of the National Democratic Congress (NDC).
Her appointment comes as the government aims to boost the tourism industry and utilize its potential for economic growth.
Houadjeto is expected to bring her wealth of experience in empowering women and communities to her new role, where she will lead the GTA in promoting Ghana’s cultural heritage and attracting both local and international tourists.
Her leadership is anticipated to drive innovative initiatives to elevate Ghana’s tourism profile on the global stage.
Houadjeto takes over from Akwasi Agyeman, who served as CEO since January 2017. Under Agyeman’s tenure, the GTA saw significant growth in both international and domestic tourism.
International tourist arrivals surged from 355,108 in 2020 to 1,148,002 in 2023, surpassing pre-pandemic figures. Domestic tourism also saw a notable increase, with visitor numbers rising from 456,000 in 2017 to 1.4 million in 2023.
Agyeman oversaw the rehabilitation of various tourist sites and the redevelopment of historic landmarks, positioning Ghana as a major holiday destination. Initiatives such as “The Year of Return” and “December in Ghana” boosted international tourism.
Under Agyeman’s leadership, the GTA also embraced digital transformation with projects like the National Tourism Destination Single Window Project and the “Visit Ghana” App.
Capacity building was also prioritized, with over 3,069 individuals trained in customer service, digital marketing, and tourism product development under the Ghana CARES Obaatanpa Initiative.
