The Upper East Region could create thousands of employment opportunities by deliberately developing its tourism and cultural assets into a structured industry rather than treating festivals and cultural activities merely as occasional social events.
Managing Director of Kacstone Records and Chairman of the Paga Youth Movement, Wenawome Duriyem Aborah, says tourism has the potential to support an entire chain of businesses, from hospitality and food services to transportation, entertainment, handicrafts and other small-scale enterprises.
He argues that with the right investment and training, tourism sites could become sustainable sources of livelihood, particularly for young people who are struggling to find formal employment.
“Tourism is a basket of employment that gives a value chain,” he said, pointing to the range of economic activities that can emerge around tourist attractions.
Mr Aborah made the comments after participating in a tourism industry engagement in Lesotho, where he observed how the country was positioning tourism as an economic opportunity and mobilising support for people operating within the sector.
He believes Ghana, and particularly the Upper East Region, can adapt similar approaches by deliberately training people around tourist destinations and supporting them with the skills and resources needed to operate businesses.
He said such training should not be limited to people already in school, but should also target young people and others in communities who could provide services around tourism sites.
Mr Aborah also called for greater collaboration between government agencies, traditional authorities, private investors and local communities, warning that government alone cannot provide jobs for everyone.
He said the region must begin to view tourism destinations as economic assets capable of creating sustainable livelihoods rather than simply places for visitors to see and leave.
He further urged stakeholders to develop events around the region’s unique landscapes, traditions and seasons to attract visitors and create business opportunities for local people.
Source: Bolgafmonline.com| 102.7 MHz| Bolgatanga
