Headlines for Travel and Tourism News 06/06/25
Ghana and Iran Deepen Tourism Ties with Focus on Ecotourism and Institutional Collaboration
BridgeZone Global Attracts Global Attention as Ghana Becomes a Homecoming Destination for the Diaspora
Marriott International Expands Sustainable Practices with New Eco-Friendly Hotel Launch
The British Council has initiated discussions with the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts to explore collaborative efforts aimed at promoting Ghana’s rich cultural heritage.The engagement signaled a meaningful step towards deepening partnerships that support the advancement of the country’s tourism, culture, and creative arts sectors.
Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts Minister, Madam Abla Dzifa Gomashie, expressed gratitude to the British Council for its enduring commitment to Ghana’s arts and culture. She highlighted the need for increased investment in under-supported areas such as gastronomy, craft, dance, and painting, which she believes hold immense potential to showcase Ghana’s cultural identity on the global stage.
The Minister also stressed the importance of professionalising tour guiding, to ensure Ghana’s history is told with accuracy and depth. She called for improved quality and consistency in local arts and crafts and urged the development of policies that would help reshape mindsets and elevate standards across the cultural space.
Leading the British Council delegation, International Development Expert Nii Doodo Dodoo described the meeting as a “homecoming,” reminiscing about his early days as a tour guide in Ghana. He noted the British Council’s presence in Ghana for over 80 years and its significant contributions to the creative and cultural landscape.Mr. Dodoo showed particular interest in the “Black Star Experience” initiative, acknowledging its potential in shaping and amplifying Ghana’s cultural narrative.
The British Council reaffirmed its commitment to promoting cultural exchange and supporting Ghana’s creative economy through strategic partnerships.The discussions also covered strategies to strengthen the creative arts sector, position tourism as a key economic pillar, and empower young artists with the entrepreneurial tools needed to effectively commercialise their talents.
Prince Anthony Bart-Appiah, a Ghanaian royal and cultural strategist, is redefining tourism in Ghana through his organisation.The BridgeZone Global. Drawing on his UK upbringing and deep Ghanaian roots, he promotes tourism as a transformative journey—one that heals, reconnects, and celebrates heritage.
His initiative offers immersive experiences such as traditional naming ceremonies, Kente weaving lessons, and family-style local meals, positioning Ghana as a spiritual home for the African diaspora.Prince Anthony’s influence extends through digital campaigns, high-profile partnerships, and media features, with celebrities like Quad Webb and Nene Leakes participating in BridgeZone tours. His efforts have garnered international attention and reshaped global narratives around African identity.
In addition to cultural tourism, he has introduced medical tourism, blending world-class healthcare with ancestral reconnection—offering visitors both physical healing and cultural renewal.
Tourism officials from Iran and Ghana met in Segovia to explore avenues for cooperation, particularly in ecotourism and nature-based tourism. The Iranian delegation, led by Mohseni Bandpei, held discussions with top Ghanaian officials, including the ministers of foreign affairs and tourism, as well as the ambassador.
Both sides agreed to facilitate expert-level exchanges between institutions in the two countries to implement the proposed initiatives. They also reaffirmed their history of mutual support in international forums, viewing their political alignment as a strong foundation for advancing cultural and tourism ties.
A Ghanaian delegate, who is a candidate for Secretary-General of the World Tourism Organization (WTO), shared his vision for the organization. In response, the Iranian side called for reforms in the WTO’s human resource structure to ensure equitable representation. They also criticized the organization’s perceived political bias and urged it to stay neutral in international conflicts.
Marriott International has announced the opening of its latest eco-friendly hotel in Lisbon, Portugal, marking a major step forward in the company’s sustainability efforts. The new property features energy-efficient systems, water conservation technologies, and uses locally sourced materials to minimize environmental impact. This launch is part of Marriott’s broader “Serve 360” initiative, aiming to reduce carbon emissions and promote sustainable tourism globally.
The hotel also incorporates wellness-focused amenities and community engagement programs to enhance guest experience while supporting local culture and economy. Marriott plans to replicate this model in several key markets over the next five years, reinforcing its commitment to responsible hospitality.
Source : Joycelyn Marigold – African Travel & Tourism News
