The Government of Ghana has officially launched the “December in Ghana 2025” initiative, reaffirming its commitment to position Ghana as Africa’s premier cultural, creative and tourism destination during the festive season.
The launch, held at the Jubilee House in Accra, brought together senior government officials, creative industry players, event organizers, and private sector partners. The ceremony featured remarks from the Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA), the Minister for Tourism, Arts and Culture, and the Chief of Staff, who all emphasized the importance of collaboration, innovation, and service excellence in promoting Ghana’s tourism brand.
Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Tourism Authority, Maame Efua Houadjeto, said the December in GH brand has grown into one of Africa’s most recognized tourism experiences, attracting visitors from across the world.
She explained that the initiative, which evolved from the Year of Return and Beyond the Return campaigns, continues to build global interest in Ghana as a preferred destination for travel, entertainment, and heritage tourism.
Ms. Houadjeto emphasized that December in GH 2025 would feature a more diverse lineup of events across all regions, including festivals, music concerts, art exhibitions, food fairs, and community-led celebrations.
“We want every region, every community, and every Ghanaian to feel part of this movement. December in Ghana is not just about Accra it’s about our people, our stories, our culture, and our creativity,” she said.
She commended government, private sector partners, and the creative community for their continued support, adding that the GTA remains committed to building a tourism experience that is inclusive, impactful, and sustainable.
The Minister for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Hon. Abla Dzifa Gomashie, reaffirmed government’s commitment to promoting Ghana as Africa’s cultural capital through the December in GH initiative — describing it as “a cultural movement, a global call to home, and a testament to the power of Ghana’s heritage, hospitality, and creative spirit.”
She commended the Chief of Staff for her leadership and support to the tourism and creative sectors, describing her presence as a reflection of government’s belief in the transformative power of culture and tourism.
Hon. Gomashie highlighted Ghana’s rise as a global cultural hub since the Year of Return 2019, noting that follow-up initiatives such as Beyond the Return and Black Star Experience have made Ghana “a gateway for reconnection, rediscovery, and rejuvenation” for Africans and the diaspora.
“From Afro Nation and AfroFuture to street carnivals, art fairs, culinary expos, and traditional festivals, Ghana has become the cultural heartbeat of the continent,” she said. “Each December, our airports are busy, our beaches are alive, and our cities burst into colour and rhythm that is the spirit of Ghana.”
She revealed that December in GH 2024 attracted over 200,000 international visitors, generating thousands of direct and indirect jobs across hospitality, transport, crafts, and entertainment. “This is how tourism becomes a tool for inclusive development — by empowering our people and connecting culture with commerce,” she stated.
Launching the event, the Chief of Staff, Hon. Julius Debrah, said Ghana has the talent, culture, and hospitality to compete on the global tourism stage.
“If we package our initiatives well, Ghana will undoubtedly claim its rightful place on the international tourism market,” he said, citing achievements in music and sports as proof of the country’s global appeal.
He encouraged the Ghana Tourism Authority and stakeholders to engage social media influencers and young creatives to project a positive image of Ghana. “Imagine a short video of a dancer, a footballer, or a musician tagged #DecemberInGH that’s powerful marketing,” he said.
Hon. Debrah urged the hospitality sector to focus on service delivery, stressing that customer experience is key to attracting repeat visitors. “From the doorman to the front desk, every interaction matters. Service quality must reflect the warmth we are known for,” he noted.
He praised Ghanaian hospitality as an asset that sets the nation apart. “There’s one thing no country can take from us our warmth and friendliness,” he said, urging Ghanaians to leverage that strength as a major selling point.
The Chief of Staff also encouraged citizens to explore domestic tourism, saying every Ghanaian should experience the beauty of their own country from the coasts of Keta to the wildlife of Mole.
On behalf of President John Dramani Mahama, Hon. Debrah officially launched December in Ghana 2025, calling for collective support to make the celebration a global showcase of Ghanaian culture, creativity, and hospitality.
The “December in GH” initiative, led by the Ghana Tourism Authority under the auspices of the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, continues to attract record numbers of international visitors each year. With renewed focus on service excellence, sustainability, and inclusivity, this year’s edition is expected to further enhance Ghana’s reputation as Africa’s destination of choice for culture, creativity, and connection.
Story by Osman Issah Abadoo
