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The Deputy Director of International Relations for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Maame Efua Houadjeto, has been appointed as the new Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA).
Her appointment is part of the government’s broader strategy to strengthen the tourism industry and harness its potential for economic growth.
Maame Efua, a former Deputy Women’s Organiser of the NDC, previously contested the Trobu Parliamentary seat in 2020 but was unsuccessful. She brings extensive political and leadership experience, particularly in community empowerment and women’s development, which are expected to shape her approach to tourism management.
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Houadjeto takes over from Akwasi Agyeman, who resigned on January 22, 2025, after serving as GTA CEO since January 2017. His tenure saw remarkable progress in Ghana’s tourism sector, particularly in navigating the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic and driving a strong recovery.
Under his leadership, international tourist arrivals surged from 355,108 in 2020 to 1,148,002 in 2023, surpassing pre-pandemic levels. Domestic tourism also expanded significantly, growing from 456,000 visitors in 2017 to 1.4 million in 2023.
Agyeman spearheaded the rehabilitation and redevelopment of key tourism sites, including:
- Natural attractions: Kintampo Waterfalls, Kwahu Paragliding Site, Bunso Eco Park, Denkyira Kyekyewere Eco Park, Tano Boase Sacred Grove, Tetteh Quarshie Cocoa Farm, and Tafi Atome Monkey Sanctuary.
- Historic and cultural landmarks: Accra Tourist Information Centre, Nationalism Park, Geese Park, Salaga Slave Market, Bonwire Kente Museum, and Pikworo Slavery Camp.
He also championed major initiatives such as “The Year of Return” and “December in Ghana,” positioning Ghana as a premier destination for cultural and heritage tourism. His emphasis on digital transformation led to the launch of the National Tourism Destination Single Window Project and the “Visit Ghana” app, streamlining tourism services and information access.
Agyeman also prioritised capacity building, training over 3,069 individuals in customer service, digital marketing, and tourism product development under the Ghana CARES Obaatanpa Initiative.
As the new CEO, Maame Efua Houadjeto is expected to build on these achievements and introduce innovative strategies to further develop Ghana’s tourism sector.
Her leadership will focus on boosting international and domestic tourism, preserving Ghana’s cultural heritage, and implementing policies that attract investment into the sector.
With the foundation laid by her predecessor, industry stakeholders anticipate a renewed push to elevate Ghana’s tourism profile globally.
Her success in the role will be measured by her ability to sustain the momentum of growth, expand tourism infrastructure, and enhance Ghana’s appeal as a top travel destination.
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