The Minister for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Abla Dzifa Gomashie has outlined the significant socio-economic benefits of the Panafest and Emancipation Day celebrations, noting their impact on tourism revenue, job creation, local enterprise development, and Ghana’s global reputation.
Speaking at the official launch of the 2025 Panafest and Emancipation Day Celebrations on Monday, June 23 at the Accra Tourism Information Centre, the Minister said the influx of diaspora and international visitors each year injects vital foreign exchange into the national economy, with positive ripple effects across several sectors.
“Hotels, restaurants, transport operators, artisans, and tour guides all benefit from the vibrant tourism activities these events generate,” she noted.
The 2025 celebrations, running from July 17 to August 2 under the theme “The Black Star Experience,” are expected to bring together Ghanaians, the African diaspora, and global visitors for a shared cultural homecoming.
She highlighted that, according to data from the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA), Ghana recorded promising signs of post-pandemic recovery in 2022, with average tourist expenditure rising to $2,743 and total tourism receipts reaching $2.7 billion.
While still below pre-pandemic levels, forecasts spanning 2019 to 2022 projected that by 2023, average expenditure per tourist would rise to $3,746.65, generating estimated revenue of $3.8 billion, a significant 1.9% increase over the previous year.
The Minister also highlighted the festivals’ contribution to job creation, especially for youth and women.
“From event planning and stage production to costume design, music, and heritage site management, thousands of jobs are created through the festival’s ecosystem,” she explained.
She added that PANAFEST and Emancipation Day fuel the growth of local cultural enterprises, with increased demand for textiles, crafts, fashion, and food products stimulating both the informal and creative sectors.
Beyond economic benefits, the Minister said the celebrations contribute to Ghana’s national branding and global influence.
“PANAFEST and Emancipation Day enhance Ghana’s image as a culturally rich, welcoming, and stable nation. They position us as a leader in the global African renaissance and give us a soft power advantage that attracts partnerships, funding, and international goodwill,” she added.
Story By: Nana Antwi Boasiako
