The Ghana Heritage Conservation Trust (GHCT) has officially launched its comprehensive five-year strategic plan in a bid to bolster the preservation and promotion of Ghana’s rich cultural, natural and historical heritage.
The launch, which took place in Accra today, drew a wide range of stakeholders, including representatives from the Ghana Tourism Authority, the Ministry of Arts and Culture and traditional rulers, among others.
The five-year strategic plan was developed with the technical support of USAID Ghana and aims to create a clear roadmap for the sustainable management of Ghana's heritage resources. This plan is designed not only to benefit the communities in which these resources are located but also to ensure their accessibility and preservation for the public at large.
Speaking at the launch, the Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Professor Edward Marfo-Yiadom, emphasized the Trust’s commitment to safeguarding Ghana’s heritage.
"The plan outlines our priorities and goals for the preservation and promotion of Ghana's natural, cultural, and historic heritage," said Professor Marfo-Yiadom.
He continued "Our strategic plan is based on a comprehensive analysis of the challenges and opportunities facing Ghana's heritage sector, as well as the strengths and weaknesses of our organization. It reflects our commitment to working in partnership with government agencies, civil society organizations, communities and other stakeholders to achieve our objectives."
The strategic plan is structured around several key goals, including the development, enhancement, and management of the natural, cultural, and historical environment of the Central Region, which the Trust sees as a model for similar efforts across Ghana.
The Trust’s mission statement emphasizes its role as a catalyst in heritage conservation, stressing the importance of education and sustainable partnerships with relevant stakeholders.
Professor Marfo-Yiadom also highlighted the Trust’s vision to be a leader in the conservation, preservation, and promotion of Ghana's heritage.
"This strategic plan outlines our goals and objectives for the next five years, and sets out the strategies we will use to achieve them. We are committed to ensuring that our plan is implemented effectively and efficiently, with clear accountability and monitoring mechanisms in place," he added.