Big tourism boost for Ada

The Ada area including the Volta estuary and its surrounding Ramsar site have been identified for water sports development and other recreational facilities to boost tourism.

The initial planning cost of the project, which falls under the 15-year National Tourism Development Plan (1996 - 2010), is estimated at 250,000 US dollars. Mr Mike Gizo, Minister of Tourism, announced this at the annual 'Asafotufiami' festival celebrated by the 10 clans of Ada traditional area in remembrance of the achievements of their ancestors.

Mr Gizo said as part of the tourism development plans for the Ada area, the coastline will be protected to curb erosion as well create safe areas for swimming. He reminded the chiefs and people of the area that the global tourism industry is witnessing a tremendous competition, which demands safety and quality standards. Mr Gizo, therefore, urged them people to quickly resolve all land litigation and forge a closer co-operation among themselves.

This, he noted, would entice investors to take advantage of the infrastructure put in place by the government to promote development in the area. He assured them that his ministry would assist the traditional area with technical expertise for the promotion of qualitative tourism based on the unique cultural, ecological and historical heritage that Ada is endowed with.Mr Joshua Alabi, Greater Accra Regional Minister, expressed concern about the numerous chieftaincy disputes and the indiscriminate sale of lands in the region.

He cautioned the chiefs to leave some lands for agricultural purposes, warning that if they are not careful, they will be left with only the sea to sell.