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South African Tourism Minister Visits Ghana to Strengthen Bilateral Tourism Relations

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Patricia de Lille, South Africa minister of Tourism

Minister of Tourism, Patricia de Lille has embarked on a special outreach programme to Ghana from 26 – 28 March, aiming to strengthen tourism partnerships and promote cultural exchange between the two nations.

As part of the outreach programme, Minister de Lille will engage the Minister of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts of Ghana, Honourable, Abla-Dzifa Gomashie, the South Africa-Ghana Chamber of Commerce, tourism trade, key media and tourism stakeholders to showcase South Africa as an attractive leisure and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) destination.

The easing of visa regulations between the two countries in November 2023, was a progressive step that contributed to unlocking significant tourism potential. It also marked a new chapter in strengthening tourism and trade, creating a seamless journey for both South Africans and Ghanaians to experience the beauty and diversity Ghana and South Africa have to offer. This development also opened doors for increased business, leisure and cultural exchange.

“Ghana and the broader African continent are incredibly important markets for South Africa’s tourism sector. This visit reaffirms our dedication to deepening partnerships and unlocking growth opportunities through meaningful collaboration.  Ghana has emerged as a standout performer, recording an exceptional 149.0% increase in tourist arrivals to South Africa in 2024 when compared to 2023. The number of Ghanaian visitors surged to 36,656, largely due to the introduction of a visa waiver in November 2023 coupled with the consistent marketing by South African Tourism, allowing citizens of both countries to travel to each other’s country visa-free for up to 90 days within a year,” Minister de Lille said.

Minister de Lille’s visit holds added significance as it takes place in a year when South Africa proudly hosts the G20 Summit — a momentous occasion that highlights South Africa’s growing influence on the global stage and its commitment to fostering meaningful partnerships across the African continent.

“We recognise the immense potential of intra-African travel to drive economic development, cultural exchange, and shared prosperity. It is for this reason that we are conducting this outreach mission to strengthen relations and partnerships with our counterparts in Ghana,” Minister de Lille added.

The outreach programme will also enable senior officials from both countries to engage further on tourism bilateral issues and enhance relations.

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Culture

PANAFRICA-GHANA hosts 3rd World Press Conference 25′ in Accra: A Bold step toward a Unified African Voice

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In a remarkable show of unity, purpose, and global vision, Panafrica-Ghana (PAG) convened its 3rd World Press Conference 25 on Monday, 16th June in Accra, Ghana at the iconic Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum and park, an event that proved both historic and forward-looking. The conference, held under the theme “Embrace PAN AFRICANISM- AFRICAN WAY OF LIBERATION”, aimed to amplify Africa’s voice on the world stage. The 3rd World Press Conference 25 marked a significant milestone in the organisation’s mission to connect African leaders, influencers, and changemakers across the continent and the diaspora.

A Celebration of Leadership and Vision

At the heart of the event was the inauguration of newly appointed  Executive Members and World Artistic Ambassadors, distinguished individuals tasked with leading PAG’s advocacy efforts across borders. These leaders represent a wide range of sectors, including media, arts, diplomacy, entrepreneurship, and sustainable development.

Their appointment signals a renewed drive to influence policy, promote cultural identity, and accelerate social impact across Africa and in international corridors.

A Convergence of Influencers and Change Agents

The event drew a dynamic and diverse audience: media professionals, creatives, diplomats, development experts, and youth leaders from across Africa and beyond. It served as a platform for networking, storytelling, and agenda-setting, all centred on advancing Africa’s narrative and potential.

Board Chairman of the organisation, HRH Nana Amoah  Kwadwo II ( HON. Hadji Mustaphar Issahk addressed critical themes, including pan-Africanism, economic empowerment, digital transformation, and the need for inclusive leadership in Africa’s rapidly evolving landscape.

Founder and president Ras Caleb Appiah-Levi emphasised that PanAfrica-Ghana (PAG) is a significant initiative that seeks to revitalise the spirit of Pan-Africanism, a movement that has been a beacon of hope for African liberation and unity. As Ghana plays host to this renaissance, it is essential to explore the theme and its relevance in today’s world. Pan-Africanism offers a unique perspective on liberation, one that is rooted in African values, experiences, and aspirations. He stated.

Special guest of honour, Her Excellency Mrs. Fedilia Graand-Galon, Ambassador of Suriname to Ghana, also addressed the need for a united African front to foster development and build a better Africa for Africans.

PAG’s Growing Global Influence.

Since its inception, Panafrica-Ghana has positioned itself as a visionary organisation dedicated to promoting African unity, advocating for African-led development, and fostering international partnerships. The World Press Conference 25 was a vivid reflection of this commitment, fusing culture, activism, and diplomacy in one powerful gathering.

The Road Ahead.

As PAG ushers in a new generation of leaders and ambassadors, the call to action remains clear: Africa must speak with one voice, and that voice must be heard on every platform that shapes our shared global future.

With the momentum gained from this year’s event, Panafrica-Ghana is set to expand its impact through initiatives that elevate African excellence, empower communities, and influence decision-making on a continental and global scale.

Stay connected to PAG’s journey as it continues to champion Africa’s narrative through strategic collaboration, cultural pride, and global advocacy.

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GOVERNMENT TO COMPLETE THE STALLED AMPHITHEATRE PROJECTS BY NPP

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The director of creative arts and tourism at the Ministry of Tourism Culture and Creative Arts, Mr Divine Owusu Ansah, has revealed that the current government will complete the construction of the amphitheatres which was inherited from the previous government.

He was speaking to Kojo Preko Dankwa, host of Kessben Entertainment on Kessben 92.9 fm. In a telephone interview, Mr Divine Owusu Ansah explained that the construction of the amphitheatres during the NPP era was under the a world bank project called the Ghana Tourism Development Project. According to him, the project ended in July 2023, and an extension was given by the World Bank, which also ended in 2024.

This he further stated stalled the project and

the government then did not have the financial muscle to complete the amphitheatres projects since the World Bank project expired.

He said the current minister, Dzifa Abla Gomashie, and his deputy minister have engaged the minister for finance, honourable Ato Forson to help complete the construction of the amphitheatres which was inherited by the Ministry of Tourism Culture and Creative Arts.

Mr Divine Owusu Ansah further revealed that the Ministry of Finance has agreed to complete the construction of the amphitheatres under the Ghana Economic Transformation project. Mr Divine Owusu Ansah said the paperwork is currently ongoing to see the project back on track.

It will be recalled that President john Dramani Mahama had promised to complete all projects under construction, which was left by the previous government.

This comes at the back of pressure from Foundation Of Concerned Arts Professionals (FOCAP) asking the ministry of Tourism Culture and Creative Arts to immediately set out the parameters and also with immediate effect inform stakeholders the current situation of the construction of the amphitheatres.

Mark Okraku Mantey, the former deputy minister for Tourism Arts and Culture who led the agenda to construct the amphitheatres, failed to honour his promise to deliver fully functional amphitheatres across the country.

Story: Kojo Preko Dankwa.

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Ghana Tourism Authority Invites Event Proposals for “December in GH” 2025

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The Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) has opened a call for event proposals for the 2025 edition of December in GH, a month-long celebration of culture, heritage, entertainment, and reconnection.

 

Aligned with the spirit of the Black Star Experience, Ghana’s premier tourism initiative, December in GH continues to position Ghana as the ultimate destination for culture, heritage, entertainment and reconnection.

 

Taking place during the festive holiday season, December in GH spans a full month of curated events across music, fashion, art, culture and nightlife, drawing thousands of visitors from around the world.

 

Each year, the season welcomes a vibrant mix of the Ghanaian diaspora returning home, as well as the historical diaspora reconnecting with their African roots.

Speaking on the announcement, Maame Efua Houadjeto, CEO of the Ghana Tourism Authority, said, “December in GH is more than a festive celebration, it is a movement that showcases Ghana’s vibrant spirit to the world. As we embrace the Black Star Experience, we are setting the stage for our biggest December season yet, and we look forward to innovative events that will elevate Ghana’s place as a leading destination for culture, entertainment, and heritage tourism.”

GTA has extended invitation to event organisers, promoters and cultural curators to submit proposals for events scheduled between December 1, 2025 to January 3, 2026 that will contribute to a vibrant and diverse calendar of activities across the country.

The deadline for submissions is June 16, 2025. A selection committee will review proposals to ensure high-quality events that reflect Ghana’s creativity, hospitality, and global appeal. Selected events will be featured on the official December in GH 2025 calendar.

Annabelle McKenzie, Director of the International Affairs Secretariat, expressed excitement about working with event organizers who bring fresh ideas to December in GH.

The campaign aims to boost tourism, strengthen cultural industries, and reinforce Ghana’s reputation as the gateway to Africa.

Source: 3News

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