Ghana’s tourism industry is on the verge of a major breakthrough following the discovery of the historic Agbozume slave market and a renewed government drive to develop the nation’s “blue economy.”
The Minister for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Abla Dzifa Gomashie, visiting the newly documented inland slave market in the Volta Region, described the find as a “goldmine ready to be tapped,” noting that it offers a fresh dimension to Ghana’s already rich heritage tourism portfolio.
Unlike the well-known coastal castles, Agbozume presents an inland perspective of the transatlantic slave trade, providing visitors with a more complete historical narrative.
“The goal is to unearth new products so visitors who have already toured forts and castles can discover something new here in Volta,” Minister Gomashie said. The timing is ideal, as global interest in authentic heritage experiences continues to rise.
Beyond history, the minister highlighted Ghana’s 560-kilometre coastline as an underused asset.
Linking World Tourism Day celebrations to a “blue economy” agenda, she outlined plans to transform the entire stretch from Aplau to Half Assini into a vibrant coastal tourism corridor.
Tourism is already a key economic pillar, contributing more than GH¢4.8 billion to the national GDP. Analysts believe this represents only about 30% of the sector’s true potential growth that hinges on infrastructure improvements. “Imagine what would happen if we had good roads to all our major tourism sites,” Gomashie remarked, stressing that poor access currently shortens visitor stays and limits revenue.
The government’s decision to release 80% of the District Assemblies Common Fund provides fresh resources for local tourism projects.
The Ketu South Municipality have begun lobbying for strategic road upgrades, with visits already made by senior highway authorities.
Youth engagement is another priority. Students were deliberately included in the Agbozume World Tourism Day event to foster cultural pride and prepare a new generation to manage and promote heritage sites.
With new attractions, stronger local-government partnerships, and infrastructure investments on the horizon, Ghana is positioning itself for global recognition as a premier heritage destination.
Industry observers say the convergence of heritage discovery, blue economy development, and increased funding presents a rare opportunity. If seized, Ghana’s “tourism goldmine” could not only preserve cultural history but also drive sustained economic growth across the country.
By: Daniel Orlando/newsalertgh.com
