Headlines for Travel and Tourism News
Ghana introduces new visa policy that reduces processing time to a maximum of five working days-
Minister of Tourism begins a nationwide tour of Ghana’s tourist sites, starting with a four-day visit to the Volta Region.
Thailand Boosts Tourism with Extended Visa-Free Entry and Digital Nomad Push
The Government of Ghana has introduced a new visa policy that reduces processing time to a maximum of five working days, down from the previous 4 to 6 weeks. Announced by Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, the policy takes immediate effect and is designed to boost tourism, business, and investment.
The change aligns with President John Dramani Mahama’s pledge to make Ghana “open for business.”
Systems have already been deployed across diplomatic missions to ensure smooth implementation, with the Minister emphasizing the removal of bureaucratic hurdles to make Ghana more attractive and competitive globally.
On 7 May 2025, the Ga Mantse, His Royal Majesty Nii Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, announced plans to provide office space within his palace for the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) to support collaboration, especially towards this year’s Hɔmɔwɔ festival.
During a meeting with GTA officials, including new CEO Maame Efua Houadjeto, he shared his broader vision to use the partnership to address hunger and boost tourism in Accra by refurbishing key sites.
Houadjeto welcomed the proposal, noting the GTA’s ongoing investments in Greater Accra tourist sites, such as the refurbished Lighthouse, which is set for further rehabilitation.
Madam Abla Dzifa Gomashie, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, has begun a nationwide tour of Ghana’s tourist sites, starting with a four-day visit to the Volta Region. The tour, involving all 13 agencies under the Ministry, reflects a strategic and inclusive approach to enhancing tourism development.
During the visit, Madam Gomashie explored key attractions such as the Wli Waterfalls, Tafi Atome Monkey Sanctuary, Adaklu, and others. She was accompanied by her Deputy, Mr Yussif Jajah, the Ministry’s Chief Director, CEOs, Deputy CEOs, and Executive Directors of all tourism-related agencies.
A retreat held during the visit brought together seasoned public servants and a diplomat from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to guide and orient new appointees. Addressing regional staff from the Ghana Tourism Authority, Museums and Monuments Board, and National Commission on Culture, the Minister stressed the importance of uncovering the Volta Region’s rich tourism potential.
She said the retreat also served to align the Ministry’s stakeholders with President John Dramani Mahama’s vision of boosting tourism. The Minister praised the efforts of Wode Maya and Deputy GTA CEO Abeiku Santana for promoting the “Visit Volta Region” initiative.
As part of the tour, Madam Gomashie is expected to call on Togbe Afede XIV, Agbogbomefia of the Asogli State. She and her team will continue similar visits across the country to support the development of Ghana’s tourism sector.
Thailand is ramping up efforts to attract more international visitors in 2025 by extending visa-free entry for tourists from over 90 countries, including China, India, and Russia. The new policy, effective May 1, allows travelers to stay up to 60 days, up from the previous 30-day limit, as part of a broader campaign to position Thailand as a year-round destination.
Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) officials say the move is aimed at boosting arrivals to pre-pandemic levels and beyond. The government also announced new incentives for digital nomads, including a long-stay visa program and simplified work permits for remote workers, entrepreneurs, and tech professionals.
Popular destinations such as Phuket, Chiang Mai, and Bangkok are experiencing a surge in bookings, especially from Europe and the Middle East, driven by improved air connectivity and expanded airline partnerships.Sustainability remains a key focus, with Thai tourism agencies promoting eco-friendly resorts, community-based tourism, and marine conservation initiatives to attract responsible travelers.
Thailand projects over 35 million international tourist arrivals by the end of 2025, as the country continues to modernize its infrastructure and digital travel services.
Source :African Travel & Tourism News -Joycelyn Marigold
