December in Ghana to remain tourism anchor as government targets year-round visitors

Finance Minister, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, has assured that the December in Ghana initiative will remain a major anchor of the country's tourism industry as the government commits US$1 billion to transform the sector into a year-round economic driver.

He said the investment would build on Ghana's growing appeal as a destination for international visitors while expanding tourism activities beyond the traditional December festive season.

Presenting the 2027 Budget Statement and Economic Policy to Parliament, Dr Forson said the government intended to leverage the country's historical heritage, cultural identity and creative arts to attract visitors throughout the year.

“December in Ghana will remain a powerful anchor, while heritage journeys, ancestry services, family reunions, education programmes and the creative arts will create reasons to visit throughout the year,” he said.

The Minister explained that the US$1 billion investment would help develop a visitor economy capable of generating foreign exchange, sustaining creative enterprises and creating better jobs across the country.

The commitment signals the government's intention to consolidate the gains associated with December in Ghana while making the country an attractive destination for tourists outside the festive period.

As part of the strategy, Dr Forson announced that the Black Star Experience would operate throughout all 12 months of the year.

He said the government would also introduce a national calendar and competitive destination bidding to spread tourism activities across different seasons and regions.

The proposed measures are expected to make events more accessible to prospective visitors by turning them into bookable travel experiences, while encouraging tourism activities beyond the country's traditional destinations.

Under the plan, heritage journeys, ancestry services and family reunions will form part of the attractions used to draw visitors, particularly those interested in reconnecting with their African roots and exploring Ghana's historical connections.

Educational programmes and activities within the creative arts sector will also provide additional opportunities to attract international visitors and sustain tourism-related businesses throughout the year.

Dr Forson further highlighted the importance of Ghana's historical sites, particularly its forts, castles and locations associated with the Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade.

He said the government would ensure that these sites were treated with historical accuracy, dignity and care, recognising their significance in preserving the country's history and strengthening its heritage tourism offering.