The Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) says it is deepening support for event organisers participating in the annual “December in GH” festivities through funding, logistics and improved access to major venues, as part of efforts to grow the country’s creative economy.
Speaking on Showbiz A to Z, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the GTA, Gilbert Abeiku Aggrey Santana, outlined a range of interventions provided to organisers beyond listing events on the official December calendar. These include financial assistance, logistical backing, facilitation of visa-on-arrival processes and easing access to event venues nationwide.
Abeiku Santana said access to venues has significantly improved under the current leadership of the authority, led by Chief Executive Officer Maame Efua Houadjeto. He noted that in the past, private organisers struggled to secure major venues such as the University of Ghana Stadium, but recent stakeholder engagements have changed that narrative.
On funding, Abeiku Santana explained that financial support is assessed on a case-by-case basis. Established organisers with proven track records, such as DJ Mensah, stand a better chance of receiving funding support, while first-time organisers may initially receive logistical assistance.
“We want to be sure public funds will yield results,” he said, adding that credibility and past performance are key considerations.
Abeiku Santana also highlighted efforts to decentralise tourism through innovative regional projects. He cited the “Cocoa City Experience” in Sefwi Wiawso, in the Western North Region, as an example of turning non-traditional attractions into tourism products. Despite lacking natural tourist sites, the area’s prominence as Ghana’s largest cocoa-producing zone was transformed into a tourism experience through collaboration with local authorities and private partners.
The initiative, supported by telecoms giant MTN, featured a large concert headlined by artistes from the area, demonstrating how culture, agriculture and entertainment can be fused to promote domestic tourism.
The GTA says such initiatives are central to making December in GH more inclusive and economically impactful nationwide.