The President of Ghana, John Dramani Mahama, has outlined government’s plans to transform the historical Osu Castle into a vibrant tourist attraction.
During his State of the Nation Address in Parliament on February 27, 2025, President Mahama emphasized the importance of developing the former seat of government and its surroundings to enhance tourism in the country.
“We will develop the Osu Castle and the area around it as a tourist attraction. This 22-acre land will feature a pedestrian precinct with arts and craft markets, jewelry, and gold markets, making it a destination for both local and international visitors,” he stated.
President Mahama highlighted the significance of tourism, culture, and creative arts in Ghana’s national development strategy, emphasizing their role in job creation, cultural exchange, and economic growth.
He also mentioned the government’s efforts to position Ghana as a premier global destination by leveraging its rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and dynamic creative sector.
One of the key initiatives mentioned by President Mahama is the Blackstar Experience, which aims to establish Ghana as the gateway to Africa for the global diaspora.
This initiative will offer curated cultural, historic, and creative arts experiences in collaboration with various stakeholders to create a uniquely Ghanaian tourism brand.
Additionally, the Pan African Month will be part of the Blackstar Experience, featuring a variety of events such as street carnivals, film weeks, fashion festivals, and more.
In line with promoting tourism, President Mahama pledged to focus on meetings, conferences, and exhibitions tourism to diversify Ghana’s tourism offerings.
He highlighted Ghana’s peaceful and democratic environment as a key advantage for attracting international summits, business conventions, and high-profile gatherings, positioning the country as an attractive hub for such events.
Furthermore, President Mahama promised to resume work on the Accra Marine Drive Project, a significant urban redevelopment initiative aimed at transforming Accra’s coastline into a vibrant tourism and economic hub.
Despite progress stalling on the project, he assured that his government would reassess the work completed and take decisive action to bring it back on track.
The transformation of Osu Castle and the implementation of these tourism initiatives underscore the government’s commitment to promoting tourism, cultural exchange, and economic growth in Ghana.
