The Ghana Tourism Federation (GHATOF) is urging the government to review Ghana's $260 e-visa fee, warning that the cost could discourage international visitors and undermine efforts to grow the country's tourism industry. According to President of the Federation, Seth Ocran, the current pricing and single-entry limitation of the e-visa system put Ghana at a disadvantage compared to neighbouring countries. Ocran described the e-visa system as a positive reform but argued that its cost is too high.
Ocran cited the example of a family of four, which would pay more than $1,000 in visa fees alone, while several competing destinations in the sub-region charge between $50 and $60. He believes a review of the fee, coupled with the introduction of more accessible multiple-entry visas, could help increase tourist arrivals from about 1.2-1.3 million to 2 million. This, he thinks, would help boost the country's tourism industry.
Beyond visa reforms, the Federation is also calling for Ghana to embrace digitalisation and artificial intelligence to expand the country's global tourism reach. In line with this year's World Tourism Day theme, "Digital Agenda and Artificial Intelligence to Redesign Tourism," Ocran proposed the development of virtual tourism experiences that would allow people around the world to explore Ghana's culture and heritage remotely.
Ocran noted that such virtual experiences could particularly benefit members of the African diaspora seeking to reconnect with their heritage, while also showcasing Ghana's cultural, culinary and investment opportunities to a global audience. This, he thinks, would help promote Ghana's tourism industry and economy. The Federation's proposal aligns with the World Tourism Day celebrations.
The Ghana Tourism Federation also welcomes the collaboration between the World Tourism Day celebrations and the Eastern Expo, describing it as an example of how tourism can drive investment and commerce rather than serving only as a sightseeing activity. Ocran noted that tourism supports hundreds of thousands of jobs directly and indirectly.
Ocran urged policymakers to work more closely with industry players to unlock the sector's full economic potential. He emphasized that the tourism industry has the potential to contribute significantly to Ghana's economy, but this requires a collaborative effort from all stakeholders. The Federation is hopeful that the government will consider its proposals.
The review of the e-visa fee and introduction of multiple-entry visas, coupled with the adoption of digitalisation and artificial intelligence, are key to boosting Ghana's tourism industry. The Ghana Tourism Federation is optimistic that these measures will help increase tourist arrivals and promote economic growth.
Key points
- The Ghana Tourism Federation wants the $260 e-visa fee reviewed.
- The current e-visa fee and single-entry limitation make Ghana less competitive.
- The Federation proposes virtual tourism experiences to promote Ghana's culture and heritage.
