Here are headlines for Travel and Tourism News
Ghana’s Outgoing President Approves Visa-Free Travel for All African Passport Holders
GACL Intensifies Debt Recovery Efforts, Highlights McDan’s $4 Million Arrears
Heavy Snow Disrupts Travel Across the UK Amid Warnings of Floods and Freezing Conditions
The closure of McDan Aviation’s private jet terminal at Kotoka International Airport over a $3 million debt has sparked concerns about its economic and reputational impact on Ghana.
McDan Aviation’s CEO warned that the shutdown not only disrupts their operations but also affects numerous vendors, service providers, and the Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL), which relies on royalties from the terminal’s revenue.
The CEO stressed that the closure undermines Ghana’s efforts to establish itself as a premier tourism hub, damaging its global image and affecting a broader business ecosystem reliant on the terminal’s operations.
The closure has also sparked debates about the government’s role in supporting private sector investments critical to national development. Stakeholders fear the situation could discourage future investments in Ghana’s aviation and tourism sectors. Calls have intensified for a swift resolution to prevent further damage to the country’s growing reputation as a business and tourism destination.
Meanwhile, the Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL) has reiterated its commitment to recovering outstanding debts owed by companies at Kotoka International Airport, including significant arrears from McDan Company Limited. According to GACL, McDan owes $3,995,622.66 and GHS 13,523.37 across multiple categories, such as rent and fees for Terminal 1 and various properties. Additionally, McDan is obligated to remit 15% of gross revenue from operations between September 2022 and November 2024.
While a GHȼ2,000,000 payment was made on December 24, 2024, GACL stated it is far below the total owed.
Ghana’s outgoing President, Nana Akufo-Addo, has announced visa-free travel for all African passport holders, effective from the start of this year.
The landmark decision, revealed during his final State of the Nation Address, aligns with the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and supports the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
This policy places Ghana among a few African nations, including Rwanda, and offering visa-free access, enhancing Pan-African unity, and facilitating trade, tourism, and cultural exchange.
Previously, Ghana provided visa-free access to 26 African nations and visas on arrival to 25 others.
In more news
Heavy snow across the UK has caused significant travel disruptions, with weather warnings still in effect. Airports like Manchester and Liverpool John Lennon reopened after morning closures but warned of delays. Roads in northern England were treacherous, with drivers reporting difficult conditions. Meanwhile, melting snow and rainfall in the south have prompted flood warnings, with 23 areas at risk and 226 alerts issued.
Rail services have also been impacted, with delays due to flooded tracks in southern regions. Temperatures varied dramatically, from -8°C in Scotland to 14°C in southern England. Northern areas face continued snow and ice warnings, while heavy rain threatens localized flooding in the south.
Communities have adapted, with efforts from rescue teams and individuals braving the conditions to maintain essential services. Despite the chaos, many embraced the snowy scenery, sharing images of sledding, snowmen, and pets enjoying the wintry weather. However, authorities continue to advise caution, emphasizing the dangers of icy roads and flooding.
Source : Africa Property News – Joyceyn Marigold
