Maame Efua Sekyi-Aidoo Houadjeto, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA), has reaffirmed the outfit’s commitment to advance sports tourism as a pivotal strategy to promote Ghana on both the domestic and international stage.
She said leveraging sports, especially football, was essential in fostering national unity and attracting visitors, thereby strengthening the country’s overall tourism profile.
Mrs Houadjeto made the remarks on Monday at the Laboma Beach Resort in Accra during a public viewing party of the Black Stars FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier against the Eagles of Mali.
It was organised by the GTA in collaboration with tribe and the Ghana Football Association (GFA).
The programme was aimed at showcasing sports tourism by creating inclusive and vibrant communal experiences beyond the stadium.
The GTA boss highlighted the Authority’s longstanding support for sports, recalling its dedication since the start of its current mandate.
“Right from the time we came into government, we have supported sports tourism. We believe it is very important, and it is one of the mandates given to us,” she said.
Reflecting on Ghana’s hard-fought 1–0 victory over Mali, she expressed delight at the result while maintaining optimism for future matches.
Mrs Houadjeto underscored the importance of the beachside viewing event, explaining that while about 40,000 fans were at the stadium, the initiative offered an opportunity for many more, including tourists to join in the excitement.
“Tourism is about bringing people together to celebrate. Look at us here at the beach, as late as it is, watching football. We had locals and tourists enjoying the game side by side,” she noted.
She further stated that GTA’s support would not be limited to football alone, saying that “Whether it’s soccer or boxing, we’ll support any sport that attracts international audiences. Sports is the heartbeat of Ghanaians, and it is rewarding for us to be part of it.”
Echoing her sentiments, the CEO of Tribe, a lifestyle and events company, Nana Agyeman, described the Black Stars’ qualification as a phenomenal moment not just for football fans but for the entire nation.
“We held our breath for the entire 90 minutes, but what matters is winning. And yes, we made it,” he added.
He explained that the viewing parties formed part of a wider plan to promote sports tourism by giving ordinary Ghanaians the chance to participate in national celebrations.
He further indicated that future events would also move beyond beaches into inner-city locations to broaden access and inclusivity.
He urged Ghanaians to continue to rally behind the Black Stars, emphasising that qualification was a shared national achievement.
BY STEPHANIE BIRIKORANG
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