Minister Urges Ghanaians to Champion Domestic Tourism Under 'Black Star Experience' Initiative

Abla Dzifa Gomashie, the Minister of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, has made a passionate appeal to Ghanaians to prioritize domestic travel as the foundation for the nation’s tourism sector. Speaking during a high-profile visit to the Jirapa Royal Hill Safari in the Upper West Region, the Minister emphasized that the success of the broader 'Black Star Experience' initiative depends heavily on local engagement. She underscored that while international tourism remains a vital component of the economy, the true strength and sustainability of the industry lie in citizens discovering and supporting the diverse attractions found within their own borders.

During her tour of the safari facility, the Minister highlighted Ghana’s immense potential for world-class eco-tourism, noting that domestic travelers could significantly boost the economy. She pointed out that with a national population exceeding 30 million, mobilizing just 10 million Ghanaians to explore local destinations would result in domestic visitor numbers that far surpass international arrivals. This shift in focus is seen as essential for building a resilient tourism ecosystem that supports local businesses and preserves Ghana’s unique cultural and natural heritage for future generations.

Minister Gomashie also paid a touching tribute to the late founder of the Jirapa Royal Hill Safari, expressing mixed emotions during her visit but ultimately praising the facility for its exceptional standards, which she compared favorably to renowned global destinations. She called on the public to visit such local sites not only for leisure but as a way to honor the visionaries who invest in the country's tourism infrastructure. Furthermore, she encouraged the youth and the wider public to leverage social media platforms to showcase Ghanaian landscapes, creating a digital narrative that could attract even more interest to the region.

The call to action marks a strategic push to foster a culture of exploration among Ghanaians, aiming to move beyond a heavy reliance on foreign visitors. By promoting the 'Black Star Experience' as a homegrown movement, the Ministry hopes to ensure that tourism becomes a consistent, year-round economic driver. As the government continues to market Ghana’s unique cultural identity and scenic beauty, the success of these efforts will ultimately depend on the willingness of citizens to embrace their own heritage as the first step toward achieving global tourism excellence.