Minister calls for improved sanitation and sustainable tourism

The Minister of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Abla Dzifa Gomashie, has called on hospitality institutions and industry stakeholders to champion sanitation and environmental responsibility as a critical pillar of sustainable tourism development in Ghana.

Speaking at the 7th Kempinski Staff Excellence Awards and Gala Night in Accra, the minister urged hotels and tourism operators to extend their commitment to cleanliness beyond their premises and actively support national efforts to keep cities and communities clean.

She stressed that a clean environment is fundamental to positive visitor experiences and national development.

“Tourism thrives in environments that are clean, safe and welcoming. Sanitation is not the responsibility of government alone; it requires collective action from institutions, businesses and citizens alike,” she said.

Gomashie commended Kempinski Hotel Gold Coast City for setting high standards in Ghana’s hospitality industry, describing the hotel as a benchmark for luxury service, professionalism, and operational excellence.

She noted that the awards ceremony reflected fairness, transparency, and a strong commitment to recognising merit among staff.

Congratulating award winners and nominees, the minister emphasised that tourism is a people-driven industry where service quality and human interaction shape lasting visitor impressions.

“While infrastructure and technology are important, it is the warmth of the welcome, the professionalism of service, and the pride of Ghanaian identity that transform a simple visit into a memorable experience,” she opined.



She praised Kempinski for successfully blending international standards with local hospitality, encouraging the hotel to sustain a balanced approach that showcases Ghanaian excellence alongside global best practices.

According to her, since its establishment in Ghana, Kempinski has played a key role in raising standards across the hospitality sector.

Highlighting the government’s tourism agenda under the Black Star Experience, Gomashie said the focus remains on enhancing visitor experience, strengthening destination branding, upgrading skills and promoting Ghana’s cultural assets.

She added that tourism success must be measured not only by visitor numbers and revenue but also by job creation, dignity of work, and opportunities for youth and women.

The Minister reaffirmed government’s commitment to partnering with industry players to strengthen human capital development across the tourism, culture, and creative arts value chain.

“To build the Ghana we want, we must all put our shoulders to the wheel. Together, we can ensure that our red, gold and green with the black star grow stronger and shine brighter,” she said.

The first female manager of Kempinski, Silvia Rajniak, thanked staff for not only meeting expectations but also consistently surpassing set targets and standards.

She noted that it is through their selfless dedication and commitment that the hotel has successfully thrived over the past ten years.

The event recognised staff from various departments for their dedication and excellence in service, while also motivating employees to continue giving their best.

Joining the Minister for the event were Rita Naa Odoley Sowah, MP for La Dade Kotopon, and Dr Geoffery Tamakloe, Director of Tourism at the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts.