Akwasi Agyeman, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA), has stepped down from his position after a transformative tenure. Appointed in January 2017, Mr. Agyeman led the GTA through challenging periods, including the COVID-19 pandemic, achieving a remarkable recovery and growth in the tourism sector.
During his tenure, international tourist arrivals surged from 355,108 in 2020 to 1,148,002 in 2023, surpassing pre-pandemic levels. Domestic tourism also witnessed a significant rise, with visitor numbers growing from 456,000 in 2017 to 1.4 million in 2023.
Mr. Agyeman spearheaded the rehabilitation of major tourist attractions, including Kintampo Waterfalls, Kwahu Paragliding Site, Bunso Eco Park, Denkyira Kyekyewere Eco Park, Tano Boase Sacred Grove, Tetteh Quarshie Cocoa Farm, Tafi Atome Monkey Sanctuary
He also oversaw the redevelopment of cultural landmarks such as: Accra Tourist Information Centre, Nationalism Park, Geese Park, Salaga Slave Market, Bonwire Kente Museum, Pikworo Slavery Camp
Mr. Agyeman’s tenure featured groundbreaking initiatives, including “The Year of Return” and “December in Ghana,” which positioned Ghana as a top holiday destination.
He embraced digital transformation, launching the National Tourism Destination Single Window Project and the Visit Ghana App. Additionally, his commitment to capacity building saw over 3,069 individuals trained in customer service, digital marketing, and tourism product development through the Ghana CARES Obaatanpa Initiative.
Mr. Agyeman handed over his responsibilities to the Acting Chief Director of the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Otto Langmane, and Ekow Sampson, the Deputy CEO in charge of Operations.
