AGRA President Advocates for Increased Investment in Smallholder Farmers at World Economic Forum

George Justice Arthur urges hotels to source food from local producers

The Mayor of Cape Coast, George Justice Arthur, has called for a stronger synergy between the tourism sector and local producers to ensure that the economic benefits of the industry are felt throughout the community. Speaking at the opening of the sixth Inter Tourism Expo Accra in Cape Coast, the Mayor emphasized that the hospitality industry must serve as a catalyst for growth in other sectors, particularly agribusiness and small-scale manufacturing. He argued that for tourism to be truly transformative, its spending must reach beyond hotels to benefit farmers, fishers, and local artisans. The three-day exhibition, which runs from October 21 to October 23, serves as a platform for stakeholders to explore opportunities in tourism, agribusiness, and digital innovation. During his address, Mayor Arthur specifically urged hotels and restaurants to prioritize sourcing their food and supplies from local producers. By shifting away from imported goods and creating robust links with local food processors, he noted that the tourism industry could help stabilize the domestic economy and create sustainable employment opportunities for the youth in the Central Region. Beyond food sourcing, the Mayor highlighted the potential for tourism to support a wider range of local enterprises, including manufacturers of herbal medicines, cosmetics, and traditional crafts. He noted that the integration of these sectors is essential for developing a 24-hour economy, which would enhance national productivity and make Ghana more competitive on the global stage. The expo featured displays of locally manufactured products, demonstrating the capacity of indigenous businesses to meet the needs of high-end hospitality clients. Looking forward, Mayor Arthur expressed his ambition to transform Cape Coast into a premier global tourism destination through targeted investment. He encouraged private sector players to explore niche markets such as boutique hotels, heritage-themed accommodations, and digital tourism services. By fostering collaboration between financial institutions and the tourism sector, the Mayor believes Cape Coast can offer visitors more immersive experiences while ensuring the local population remains the primary beneficiary of the city's rich cultural heritage.