Ghana's tourism sector is experiencing a renaissance, following the successful Year of Return, December In Ghana initiatives spearheaded by the Ghana Tourist Authority (GTA). Another interesting one is the recently proposed campaign “Ghana Centre Of the World” by the CEO of the Ghana Tourism Development Company. Such initiatives attract mostly foreign tourist; however, dialing up the local interests in seeing more of the country would have a multiplier effect within the hospitality and leisure industries. There is a significant opportunity for businesses across the hospitality and leisure industries should they employ a good mix of marketing, technology and innovation to get more Ghanaian to set aside some budget to discover Ghana.
Already some players in the industry have launched initiative some notable examples of are Citi FM’s Heritage Caravan, Travel Club Gh, the Trident’s authentic adventure series, and the GTA’s Accra City Tour Bus Experience amongst others. But how can the regional tourism offices and larger hospitality and leisure industries businesses effectively tap into this burgeoning market? The answer may lie in an unexpected place: the familiar comfort of DStv.
While often associated with home entertainment, DStv for Business offers a powerful platform for enhancing the domestic tourism experience and driving business growth. It's more than just providing channels; it's about creating an atmosphere, connecting with audiences, and ultimately, contributing to a thriving tourism ecosystem. This has already been proven with DStv’s impact on making South Africa a premium destination for nature tourism.
Beyond Entertainment: Creating Immersive Experiences
Imagine a traveler exploring the historical sites of Cape Coast, then returning to their hotel to unwind with a documentary showcasing Ghana's rich cultural heritage on Akwaaba Magic or picture a family enjoying a meal at a local restaurant, while the vibrant sounds of Trace Jama (a 100% Ghanaian music channel) create a lively backdrop. DStv for Business allows businesses to curate experiences that extend beyond the physical location, immersing tourists in the heart of Ghanaian culture and fostering a deeper connection with the destination.
Catering to Diverse Interests: A Channel for Every Traveler
Domestic tourists, like any other demographic, have diverse interests. In Ghana most travel is at the weekend for funerals, weddings and other social events and DStv's extensive channel lineup caters to the variety need, from live football from European, Africa and the world over for the sports enthusiast to catch the latest games on the SuperSport channels, to families enjoying animated movies on Mnet, and news junkies staying informed on the latest global news development on CNN, BBC and CNBC Africa. This breadth of content ensures that every guest young, old and middle-aged traveler would find something to enjoy, enhancing their overall satisfaction and encouraging them to stay longer at the bar, guesthouse or hotel.
Promoting Local Gems: Showcasing Ghana's Unique Offerings
DStv isn't just about international content. It also provides a platform for showcasing local channels and programs that highlight Ghana's unique attractions, from hidden waterfalls to vibrant festivals. Businesses can leverage this by strategically selecting channels that promote diverse natural features that guest can visit during their visits to your region or districts. Furthermore, the recently added local Ghanaian channels to the DStv for Business offering means you will not be cut off from all the happening within the country when you are away from home. Thus, effectively acting as ambassadors for their region and contributing to the wider tourism economy.
Boosting Business: A Win-Win for All
For businesses, DStv for Business offers a tangible return on investment. By enhancing the customer experience, businesses can attract and retain more guests, leading to increased revenue and brand loyalty. Moreover, by aligning with local tourism initiatives, businesses can contribute to the growth of the sector, creating a positive ripple effect throughout the community. DStv also has a large subscriber base in Ghana, which means that local marketing messages/adverts placed on its channels can reach a wider audience. This can be especially helpful for promoting special local events and attractions.
The Future of Domestic Tourism: A Connected Experience
As Ghana's domestic tourism sector wakes up from its slumber, businesses must embrace innovative strategies to attract patron and stay ahead of the curve. DStv for Business offers a unique and accessible way to enhance the tourist experience, promote local culture, and drive business growth. By plugging into the potential of DStv, businesses will not only benefit their bottom line, but also contribute to the creation of a more vibrant and connected tourism landscape in Ghana.
It is crucial to foster collaboration between DStv, the GTA and other relevant stakeholders to the develop customized packages for the different types of accommodation, targeted marketing campaigns, and initiatives to promote local content and highlight the value proposition of the tourism sector. It's time to recognize that sometimes, the most powerful tools for connecting with audiences are already right in front of us.
In conclusion, DStv for Business has the potential to be a powerful catalyst for the growth of domestic tourism in Ghana. By enhancing the guest experience, providing a competitive advantage for businesses, and promoting Ghanaian culture, DStv can contribute significantly to unlocking the full potential of this vital sector. Let us embrace the power of entertainment to drive domestic tourism and showcase the beauty and vibrancy of our nation to Ghanaians.