GTA warns against excessive pricing ahead of December in GH

October 22, 2026

2 minutes read

Ms Abla Dzifa Gomashie (sixth from left) with other dignitaries during the launch

THE Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) has urged tourism operators, event organisers and sponsors to prioritise local talent, improve service delivery and adopt responsible pricing as Ghana prepares to welcome international visitors for December in GH 2026.

It said the campaign should go beyond attracting visitors to creating sustainable economic opportunities for Ghanaian businesses, young people, women and players in the tourism and creative industries.

This year’s celebration, on the theme, “Ghana to the World: Our Music, Our Culture, Our December,” will feature activities in music, film, fashion, gastronomy, literature, heritage and the performing arts.

Speaking at the launch, the Minister of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Abla Dzifa Gomashie, said the initiative would build on the achievements of the Year of Return and Beyond the Return to strengthen Ghana’s position as a leading destination for cultural experiences.

She said the success of December in GH should not be measured solely by visitor numbers or the number of events organised, but also by the lasting economic benefits for local businesses and host communities.

Ms Gomashie cautioned hospitality operators, transport providers and event organisers against practices that made Ghana excessively expensive for visitors, warning that unreasonable prices could undermine efforts to attract international tourists.

She urged industry players to maintain high service standards, ensure visitor safety and adopt fair pricing to give visitors memorable experiences and encourage repeat visits.

The Minister also called on event organisers, promoters and sponsors to give Ghanaian artistes prominent places in their December entertainment programmes to promote local talent and create sustainable livelihoods for creatives.

She appealed to Ghanaians at home and abroad to support the campaign and project a positive image of the country to the world.

The Chief Executive Officer of the GTA, Maame Efua Houadjeto, said Ghanaian musicians and other creatives deserved prominent billing, quality production, fair remuneration and opportunities to reach wider international audiences.

“Our musicians and creatives deserve opportunities that match their talents. They deserve stages that build their audience, partnerships that expand their reach, and recognition that translates into lasting livelihoods,” she said.

Mrs Houadjeto said December in GH provided an important platform to showcase Ghana’s cultural identity, strengthen the tourism industry and encourage visitors to explore attractions beyond Accra.

She urged tourism and hospitality businesses to improve their services and encouraged visitors to experience the diverse traditions, cuisines and heritage of communities across the country.

She disclosed that more than 150 events had been registered nationwide for December in GH 2026, with additional activities expected to be added to the programme.

As part of the celebrations, Ghana will host the maiden African Festival of Arts, Culture and Creativity (IFESTA) from December 9 to 11, 2026, in collaboration with the African Union Development Agency (AUDA-NEPAD).

BY NELLY QUARCOOPOME & EUGENE AMPIAW

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