‘Show gratitude to pioneers of tourism in Ghana’
The Chairman of the planning committee of the maiden Ghana Tourism Hall of Fame Awards, Mr Johnnie Moreaux, has asked Ghanaians to show gratitude to “the fathers and mothers of Ghana tourism” for the foundational role they played in developing tourism to become Ghana’s fourth largest foreign exchange earner.
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“Most of these ‘old guards’ are people who spent the better part of their lives, spanning over 40 years, in the industry as public and private sector operators. They laid the foundation, expecting no recognition, and enduring opposition from selfish interests. They used their own resources to promote Ghana and helped governments to put in place policies which today are yielding fruits,” he said
Mr Moreaux was interacting with the press at the weekend as part of a build-up to the forthcoming awards ceremony to be organised by the Ghana Tourism Federation (GHATOF).
The federation is made up of 25 trade associations, including hoteliers, restauranteurs, tour guides, hospitality and car rental operators.
The ceremony will be held at the Banquet Hall of the State House on October 14, this year.
Awards
The awards have been created to recognise outstanding individuals who, through their leadership, dedication and professionalism, have made significant contributions to the Industry in Ghana.
Mr Moreaux said the ‘old guards’ had run a good race in a highly competitive relay, adding: “They have handed the baton to us and are now on the sidelines watching and encouraging us to excel. The least we can do today is call them into the bright lights of public recognition and pat them on the shoulder. This is the essence of the Tourism Hall of Fame.”
He paid glowing tribute to the foresight of GHATOF’s Mr David Nana Anim for instituting the award, saying: “The more we recognise the pioneering spirit of the old and excellence in the present generation, the higher we lift the industry.”
Ten awards are up for grabs. Three persons will be immortalised by their induction into the Hall of Fame, while the rest will be honoured with medallions and members.