Government targets West Africa’s top spot for conferences, business tourism

Government says it is targeting to make Ghana West Africa's leading destination for international conferences and business tourism as part of a US$1 billion investment in the tourism, culture and creative arts sectors.

Finance Minister Dr Cassiel Ato Forson said the initiative will focus on developing world-class facilities and expanding the country's capacity to host major international gatherings.

Presenting the 2027 Budget Statement and Economic Policy to Parliament on Thursday, November 12, he said the investment will position Ghana to attract more international conferences, business meetings and cultural events.

“Mr Speaker, our ambition is to make Ghana West Africa’s destination of choice for international conferences and business tourism,” he stated.

As part of the plan, the Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) will build and operate an ultra-modern international convention centre at the La Trade Fair Centre.

“It will be a landmark venue worthy of the Black Star, bringing major international gatherings to Ghana,” Dr Ato Forson added.

Government also plans to establish a professional convention bureau in 2027 to bid for recurring African and global conferences.

Accra will serve as the country's principal international hub, while Kumasi will be developed as a complementary destination, drawing on its cultural heritage to host business and other major events.

The government is also offering tax incentives to SSNIT to construct five-star hotels in Accra and Kumasi, as well as four-star hotels in the Volta, Central and Northern regions by 2030.

The measures form part of Pillar 5 of the 2027 Budget, which seeks to turn Ghana's tourism and cultural assets into a year-round visitor economy, generate foreign exchange and create employment opportunities.