The Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA), Maame Efua Houadjeto, took centre stage yesterday, March 2, 2026, as she led the official launch of Ghana Heritage Month 2026 at the symbolic Nationalism Park in Accra.

The ceremony, awash with vibrant colours, traditional rhythms and patriotic spirit, signalled the beginning of a nationwide celebration dedicated to Ghana’s culture, identity and history. However, beyond the spectacle, it was the strong leadership message from the GTA boss that defined the tone of the event.

The launch attracted an array of dignitaries, including members of the diplomatic corps, chief executives of agencies under the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, stakeholders from the tourism and creative sectors, as well as the Board of the Authority. Notable among the guests were Edmond Moukala, Head of Office and Representative of UNESCO to Ghana, and Karina Gould, Culture Attaché of the Canadian Embassy.

Board Chair of the GTA, Ms. Gertrude Emefa Donkor, and other board members were also present, reinforcing the institutional weight behind the initiative.

Maame Efua Houadjeto called for what she described as “authentic Ghanaian living,” urging citizens to move beyond symbolic observance and embrace culture as a daily practice.

Paying homage to Ghana’s founding father, Kwame Nkrumah, she reminded the gathering that national development must remain rooted in cultural identity.

“Osaagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah envisioned a confident and self-reliant Ghana grounded in its heritage. Our traditions are not outdated artefacts; they are living foundations upon which we must build our future,” she emphasised.

The CEO challenged Ghanaians to make deliberate choices that reflect national pride.

“Let us consciously eat Ghanaian meals, wear Ghanaian fabrics and support Ghanaian creativity. Heritage Month is not ceremonial—it is a movement,” she declared.

She further highlighted heritage as a powerful economic driver, stressing that culture fuels tourism growth, stimulates entrepreneurship and creates sustainable employment. According to her, Ghana’s rich traditions, festivals, crafts and storytelling traditions give the country a distinct advantage in the global tourism marketplace.

Tourism Minister Calls for Nationwide Ownership

Delivering the keynote address, the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Hon. Abla Dzifa Gomashie, rallied citizens across the country to actively engage in the month-long programme.

“This is a season of rediscovery. It is an opportunity to reconnect with who we are as a people and to present our authentic selves confidently to the world,” she said.

She also extended a warm invitation to the diplomatic community to participate fully in the festivities, encouraging them to immerse themselves in Ghanaian traditions, cuisine, music and heritage experiences.

In his goodwill message, Edmond Moukala of UNESCO reaffirmed the organisation’s dedication to partnering Ghana in safeguarding both tangible and intangible heritage.

He noted that culture remains central to sustainable development and praised Ghana for placing heritage at the heart of its national agenda.

Symbolic Launch and Cultural Showcase

The highlight of the event was the symbolic unveiling of Ghana Heritage Month 2026 by the Minister, joined by the CEO of the GTA, the UNESCO representative and other dignitaries—an act that officially set activities in motion across the country.

The programme began with an opening prayer by Ekow Sampson, Deputy CEO in charge of Operations, while Gilbert Abeiku Aggrey, Deputy CEO responsible for Marketing and Special Duties, steered proceedings as Master of Ceremony.

Guests were treated to captivating cultural performances, a dazzling display of traditional attire and a showcase of indigenous products.

 Among industry stakeholders present was Shea Butter Ambassador Hamamat Montia, whose participation underscored the growing recognition of local enterprise and natural products as pillars of Ghana’s heritage promotion.

Well patronised and charged with patriotic enthusiasm, the launch firmly established the Ghana Tourism Authority’s commitment—under the leadership of Maame Efua Houadjeto—to reposition heritage as both a cultural treasure and an economic catalyst.

With a comprehensive calendar of activities lined up nationwide, Ghana Heritage Month 2026 is poised to deepen national pride, energise the tourism sector and reinforce Ghana’s standing as a leading cultural destination in Africa and beyond.