Ghana Tourism Authority vows to stop unlicensed facilities from operating

The Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) has vowed to stop unlicensed facility operators in the hospitality industry from doing business.

Mr. Ekow Sampson, its Ashanti Regional Manager, said it would go to every length to ensure that the laws and regulations are enforced to promote sanity in the industry.

Speaking to the Ghana News Agency (GNA) in Kumasi, he pointed out that the right things must be done to sustain the industry on the path of growth.

Mr. Sampson said it had already identified 14 hotels, restaurants and travel and tours facilities, which had been operating in the region without license and served them with notices to comply with the law or face prosecution.

These include Sunflower, Justlink, Whiteman, Abaanekie and Bekimk Travel and Tours, Sweetbite, Steak and Asab Restaurants.

The hotels are Amansie International, Wildwin Resort, Mampong Guest House, Moreda Lodge, Alice Tee Hotel and Fampof Guest House.

Mr. Sampson expressed worry about the proliferation of sub-standard facilities and said the GTA had stepped up efforts to deal with the situation and to protect the safety of people, who patronize the facilities.

December is one of the peak tourism seasons, drawing many foreign tourists to the region, particularly to catch a glimpse of rare bird species which migrate to the Owabi Wildlife Sanctuary in the course of the harmattan.

Additionally, Kumasi being a major business hub in the West African sub-region, has been drawing traders from neighbouring countries to carry out economic activities.

Source: GNA