Domestic tourism surges as Easter becomes nationwide celebration

Domestic tourism in Ghana is rising rapidly as Easter transforms from a religious observance into a nationwide celebration, Deputy GTA CEO Abeiku Santana has said.

Speaking during the Easter festivities, Abeiku Santana highlighted a growing shift in how Ghanaians experience the holiday, noting increased travel and participation in events across the country.

“Easter was for church convention, but now it’s becoming celebratory. People are going for events here and there,” he said, underscoring the evolving nature of the season.

He pointed to a surge in domestic travel, with multiple regions hosting activities simultaneously, reflecting a deliberate strategy to spread tourism beyond traditional hotspots.

According to him, the Ghana Tourism Authority has expanded its tourism promotion efforts, particularly into the Volta Region, where new sites are being developed to attract visitors.

“We are having Vodza Regatta Keta Festival concurrently with Easter paragliding,” he noted, adding that other destinations such as Gomoa and Sekondi are also developing their tourism offerings.

Mr. Santana stressed that the growing interest in local travel is a positive sign for the sector.

“Domestic tourism awareness is increasing, and our domestic tourism product is evolving,” he said.

He explained that this shift is not accidental but part of a broader strategy to ensure sustainability in the industry by reducing dependence on international arrivals.

“When we lose domestic tourism and rely on inbound foreign visitors, it’s going to affect us,” he cautioned, pointing to global uncertainties that can disrupt travel flows.

Santana also credited government policy direction for the momentum, citing investments in infrastructure under President John Dramani Mahama.

“If you look at all the major tourism destinations, the road infrastructure is going on,” he said, expressing optimism that improved access will further boost domestic travel.

He added that tourism activity is now visible across the Central, Western, Ashanti, Volta, Eastern and Greater Accra regions, reinforcing the idea that Easter has become a truly nationwide celebration.