Hotels association gets new president as industry calls for stronger private sector role

The Ghana Hotels Association has sworn in Mr Victor Opoku Mintah as its new President, with renewed calls for a stronger role for the private sector in shaping the direction of the country’s tourism industry.

The ceremony, held in Accra on Thursday, April 23, 2026, brought together industry players, traditional authorities and academia. It was chaired by Prof. Kwaku Boakye, Vice Chancellor of Cape Coast Technical University.

Mr Opoku Mintah takes over from Dr Edward Ackah Nyamike Jnr, who served two consecutive four year terms after his election at the Association’s Biennial Congress in Kumasi in February 2018 and re election in Wa in 2022.

In his inaugural address, Mr Opoku Mintah said the hotel sector remained largely private sector driven, accounting for over 98 per cent of operations, while creating jobs and contributing to the country’s gross domestic product.

“The question is whether the system is fully working for us,” he said, indicating that his administration would pursue a more structured and results driven approach in engaging stakeholders.

He said a review of existing laws would be pursued to make membership of tourism establishments within the Association compulsory, noting that this would improve coordination within the sector.

“To our partners in government and regulatory bodies, we respectfully state that the time has come for the private sector to take fuller ownership in driving visibility, accessibility and growth of the tourism industry,” he said.

Mr Opoku Mintah also drew attention to cultural identity, pointing to “Oobake”, a Ga expression of welcome, as a concept gaining ground within the hospitality space.

“I am encouraged to see hotels already embracing Oobake in their receptions,” he said, adding that it reflected pride in local identity.

In his farewell address, Dr Nyamike said his eight year tenure had been guided by integrity and transparency, adding that the Association was handing over a well organised and widely recognised body.

“We are handing over an administration that has become the mouthpiece of the tourism and hospitality industry in Ghana and a strong advocate for a conducive business environment,” he said.

Dr Nyamike outlined a number of issues requiring attention, including the need for transparent and inclusive disbursement of the one per cent Tourism Development Fund, full implementation of the Public Private Partnership Forum under the Tourism Act, promotion of alternative energy solutions for hotels and the use of technology, including artificial intelligence, in hotel operations.

He also mentioned a pending copyright case involving the Ghana Music Rights Organisation as outstanding.

“We have done our part, and it is now time to hand over the baton,” he said.

Past President Mr Herbert Acquaye later presented handing over notes to Mr Opoku Mintah and formally handed over the staff of office.

Dr Nyamike was subsequently inducted into the Association’s Presidential Advisory Council.

Nii Kojo Ashifi Papanyira I, Developmental Chief of the Ga State, who spoke on behalf of His Royal Majesty King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, said hotels often serve as the first point of contact for visitors arriving in the country.

“Your industry plays a major role in promoting our culture and shaping Ghanaian identity,” he said.

He urged hotels operating on Ga land to display the greeting “Oobake” alongside other welcome messages, and encouraged those in other parts of the country to reflect local languages.

He said about 65 per cent of hotels in Ghana were owned by Ghanaians, describing it as an opportunity to promote culture while supporting the national economy.

“Even though the industry is performing well, we must do better,” he said, adding that a peaceful and clean environment was needed for hotel businesses to operate.

The Association presented a citation to King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II in recognition of his support.

Prof. Boakye, after administering the oath of office, advised the new executives to consult widely in their work.

“Leadership is not easy,” he said. “Consult one another and consult the seniors. We will always be available to support you.”