Headlines for Travel and Tourism News
Ghana Tourism Authority Pushes for Lower Hotel Rates with Solar Energy Loans
Ghana ranks tenth in Africa’s hotel development pipeline with 22 projects totalling 3,125 rooms
Marriott International Expands Global Footprint with 100 New Hotels in 2025
The Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) has taken steps to address the high cost of hotel accommodation in the country by introducing an innovative Public-Private Partnership (PPP) scheme. Speaking at a news conference in Accra, CEO Maame Efua Houadjeto announced that the GTA is collaborating with financial institutions to provide interest-free soft loans to hotels to invest in solar energy systems.
According to her, the high hotel rates are largely driven by rising utility costs. She explained that reducing electricity expenses through solar adoption would allow hotels to lower their room rates, supporting GTA’s broader plan for sustainable tourism.
“We are urging hoteliers to reduce their rates, but they need help. Installing solar is expensive upfront, and we’re stepping in with a solution that lets them spread the cost over two years,” she stated.This move is part of GTA’s long-term commitment to creating a sustainable tourism environment while making Ghana more affordable and attractive to both domestic and international travellers.
As part of its drive to strengthen tourism development in Ghana, the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) has announced a restructuring of its administrative departments. At a press briefing, GTA unveiled the separation of its Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Department from the Corporate Affairs Unit to enhance operational efficiency.
The Corporate Affairs Department is now led by Bright Asempa Tsadidey, while the newly established PPP Department is headed by Rev. Jones Aruna Nelson. Rev. Nelson described the PPP model as “a bold step towards harnessing the collective strengths of government and private enterprises,” in line with Section 42 of the Tourism Act 2011 (Act 817). He revealed that key initiatives under this new structure include “The Black Star Experience,” which showcases Ghana’s heritage, and the “Resetting Agenda,” aimed at reimagining tourism strategies for sustainability.
Mr Tsadidey, on his part, outlined his vision to position Ghana as a global cultural force. He promised an intensified public education drive, enhanced media relations, and a unified tourism identity to strengthen the nation’s global appeal.
Africa’s hospitality industry is booming, with 577 hotel projects totalling 104,444 rooms underway as of Q1 2025—a 13.3% year-on-year increase. This growth reflects rising international confidence and demand, especially in North and West Africa.
Ghana ranks 10th on the continent with 22 projects (3,125 rooms), mostly concentrated in Accra. Major brands like Hilton and Marriott lead the market, while emerging players such as Aleph, Eurostars, Index, CityBlue, and Radisson Individuals are expanding their presence.
Tanzania follows in 9th place with 29 projects (3,432 rooms), though only 37.9% are under construction. Zanzibar is the main hotspot, expecting 10 resort openings between 2025 and 2026.
Marriott International has announced plans to open 100 new hotels across key global markets by the end of 2025, reinforcing its position as one of the world’s leading hospitality brands. The expansion will span across Asia-Pacific, the Middle East, Europe, and Africa, reflecting the company’s strategic focus on high-growth regions and evolving travel trends.
The new properties will include brands such as The Ritz-Carlton, JW Marriott, Sheraton, and Moxy, catering to both luxury and mid-scale travellers. A significant portion of the development will occur in emerging markets, including India, Vietnam, Saudi Arabia, and Kenya, where demand for leisure and business travel continues to grow.
Marriott’s CEO, Anthony Capuano, said the expansion aligns with the company’s vision of providing exceptional travel experiences and supporting local economies. “As global travel continues to recover, we are focused on bringing our trusted brands to new destinations and deepening our presence in markets where travellers are looking for authentic and elevated stays,” he stated.
The company also emphasised its commitment to sustainable development, with many of the new hotels incorporating energy-efficient technologies and locally sourced materials in their design.
Source: Joycelyn Marigold : African Travel & Tourism News
