Unregistered Airbnb operators in Kasoa face prosecution as GTA intensifies enforcement

The Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) has shut down several unregistered accommodation facilities in Kasoa and surrounding areas for operating without the required licences.

The Authority said the operators had repeatedly been notified to register their facilities in accordance with the Registration and Licensing of Food, Beverage and Entertainment Enterprises, 2016 (L.I. 2238), but failed to comply.

During the enforcement exercise, the Accra West Regional Director of the GTA, Richard Agyenim Boateng, said operating an accommodation facility without the required registration and licence was illegal.

He warned that operators who reopen their facilities without meeting the necessary requirements could face prosecution.

Mr Boateng explained that the exercise was intended to enforce tourism regulations while helping to protect the safety and satisfaction of guests.

“We are mandated to close down all facilities that are not registered. These facilities have failed to register with us and have ignored our notices. That is why we are here to ensure they do the right thing. They operate Airbnb facilities, and we want them to come to our office to go through the registration process and obtain licences,” he told Accra-based Citi FM.

The GTA is urging operators of accommodation facilities, including Airbnb properties, to visit its offices and complete the registration and licensing process to ensure compliance with the law.

The enforcement exercise forms part of the Authority’s efforts to ensure that tourism-related businesses operate within the required regulatory framework.