Welcome to PETV’s Travel and Tourism News.
Coming up
Goldstar Air plans to revitalize Ho Airport in the Volta Region.
Kenya to Confirm Ghana’s Exemption from eTA Visa Fee by End of March.
The World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) rebrands to UN Tourism
Let’s delve into the stories
Goldstar Air, also known as the Wings of Ghana, plans to revitalize Ho Airport in the Volta Region, dubbed the “Ghost Town.”
The CEO, Eric Bannerman, believes their innovative approach will attract more passengers and stimulate economic growth.
Although Ho Airport was completed in 2017, it remained inactive.
Mr. Bannerman highlights the airport’s readiness for specific aircraft and plans to operate Boeing 737-800s, ideal for Ho’s runway length.
Their strategic plan involves 24/7 service from Accra and Kumasi, focusing on direct flights to Mecca initially, and later expanding to Europe.
By promoting “Destination Volta,” they aim to make the region a premier tourist destination. Goldstar Air also plans to generate revenue through Hajj flights and loyalty charter flights, contributing to infrastructure maintenance costs and stimulating the local economy.
They will initially operate flights from Kumasi and Accra to various international destinations. These initiatives are expected to create over one hundred thousand direct jobs and boost Ghana’s GDP.
Away from that
Kenya’s High Commissioner to Ghana, Eliphas Barine, has announced that Ghanaians will soon be exempt from paying the US$30 Kenya Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) fee.
He made this statement during a Kenya Airways event in Accra, indicating that the exemption process for Ghanaian travelers, who previously did not have to pay for a visa, is nearing completion.
Ambassador Barine mentioned that a selected team is working on the issue, and a final announcement is expected by the end of March. Kenya recently replaced its eVisa system with the Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA), allowing citizens of all countries to apply.
This change means that tourists no longer need to apply for a visa but can instead complete the eTA application process and pay the required fees to obtain permits within three days.
However, this policy adversely affected citizens of countries like Ghana, which previously did not require an eTA or visa-on-arrival payment.
Kenya’s confirmation of Ghana’s eTA visa payment exemption is anticipated by the end of March.
In more news
The Minister of Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Mr Asamoah Boateng, has emphasized the importance of preserving Ghana’s cultural heritage during the Ghana Culture Week symposium in Accra.
He stressed the significance of safeguarding cultural practices, languages, and customs for unity and cohesion, highlighting their role in tourism and economic development.
Mr Boateng pledged government commitment to preserving and promoting Ghana’s traditions through policy initiatives.
Nana Otuo Owoahene Acheampong, Chairperson of the Ghana Culture Forum (GCF), expanded the weeklong celebration to showcase cultural diversity and address pertinent issues.
However, he noted the lack of support for the creative sector and urged government investment in data collection.
UNESCO representative Mr Carl Ampah commended the initiative and encouraged preserving Ghana’s cultural clothing and textiles while blending traditional skills with modern trends.
On the International Front
The World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) has changed its name to UN Tourism with the help of Interbrand, aiming to strengthen its role in global tourism development.
This change emphasizes three main messages: the UN’s global role, connecting people worldwide, and proactive movement.
Executive Director at Interbrand, explains that the new name offers simplicity and clarity, reflecting the agency’s influence in tourism.
UN Tourism aims to be more approachable and emphasizes its authority in tourism.
The rebrand reflects a shift towards agility and accountability, focusing on education, consultancy, and networking for Member States and private sector affiliates.
The new visual identity includes a redesigned symbol and a grid-based visual system for consistent branding across various touchpoints. Implementation will roll out gradually across digital and physical channels.
Source : Africa Home Building News -Joycelyn Marigold