He said the revolution of the world in technology had made it essential for them to embrace new ideas, adopt cutting-edge technologies and foster sustainable practices for tourist attractions. “However, innovation alone is not enough; excellence must be our guiding principle. It is the dedication to quality service, the pursuit of customer satisfaction, and the passion for showcasing the best of the Upper East that would set our tourism apart, he added.

The Director made the call when he addressed stakeholders at this year’s Upper East GTA Awards held in Bolgatanga, the regional capital. It was held on the theme “Celebrating Innovation and Recognising Excellence in Ghana’s Tourism Sector,” to celebrate institutions and individuals who embodied their values, pushed boundaries, and set new standards within the tourism space. It had support from GANASS Hotel, Golden Horse Hotel, Atula Hotel, Tap Hotel, Rock Gardens and Eco Resort, among other hosts of donors and partners.

Mr. Akwasi Agyeman, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), GTA, in a speech read on his behalf, noted that the theme reflected a call to action and a reminder that the industry’s growth and success depended on stakeholders’ ability to innovate, adopt new ideas, and strive for excellence.

He urged the stakeholders to improve their services for economic growth by providing unique experiences that captivate the hearts and minds of travelers.

Pe Ditundini Adiali Ayagitam III, the Paramount Chief of the Chiana Traditional Area and President of the Upper East Regional House of Chiefs, reiterated the need for an airport for the region.

He said the construction of an airport would ease the travelling difficulties of tourists into the region and significantly promote its tourism credentials.  It would also create more economic opportunities for the youth that would enable them to resist economic influence by violent extremists, he added.

Dr. Hafiz Bin Salih, the Upper East Regional Minister, said the private sector was the engine for development, and the government was committed to creating an enabling environment for businesses to thrive.  He called on investors to tap into the growing potential tourist sites in the region.

Mr. Boniface Gambila, Ghana’s Ambassador to Burkina Faso, noted that it was about time Ghana and its neighbouring countries like Burkina Faso, Togo among others created a platform for cross border cultural and tourism display to showcase the potentials of each country.  This, he said, would help promote the local tourism industry, increase the number of visitors and help boost the local economy for sustainable socioeconomic development.