The Managing Director of the International Finance Corporation, Mr Makhtar Diop, has visited the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park in Accra to recognise Ghana's historical legacy and highlight tourism's contribution to economic growth and job creation.
The visit paid tribute to Ghana's first President and his contribution to African independence and unity. It also connected the World Bank Group's support for preserving cultural heritage with the corporation's investment in the businesses and services that help tourism grow.
Ghana's cultural heritage is an important part of its tourism economy, attracting visitors and supporting livelihoods across hospitality, transport, arts and local businesses.
The Dr Kwame Nkrumah Memorial and Mausoleum Park symbolises Ghana's journey to freedom and unity and ranks among the country's ten most visited sites. Redeveloped with US$4.8 million in World Bank support, the park now serves as a hub for cultural events, educational tours and national celebrations. It preserves an important part of Ghana's history while providing a space for Ghanaians and international visitors to learn about Nkrumah's life and legacy.
Heritage attractions help bring visitors to Ghana, generating demand for accommodation, restaurants, transport, guided tours and locally made products. Strengthening these connections can help tourism spending reach small businesses and communities.
The corporation is supporting this wider tourism economy through financing for PLP Properties' development of a 170-room Hampton by Hilton hotel in Accra. The project will expand internationally branded midscale accommodation and is expected to support nearly 1,000 direct and indirect jobs, including 200 permanent positions.
The park's redevelopment and the corporation's hospitality investment illustrate complementary contributions to Ghana's tourism sector. Investment in cultural attractions strengthens the visitor experience, while private investment expands the services needed to welcome travellers and generate employment and business for local suppliers.