President Nana Akufo-Addo has entreated Ghanaians to explore and enjoy the many sights and sounds in the country before jetting off to Dubai for sightseeing or holidays.

Mr Akufo-Addo also charged Ghanaians, especially those living in the capital, Accra, to visit other parts of the country, learn about those areas and experience their culture and traditions.

In his speech at the 62nd Independence Day celebration held at the Aliu Mahama Stadium in Tamale, Northern Region, Mr Akufo-Addo said he hopes this year’s celebration in the north, the first-ever hosting of the national celebration outside Accra, will spur on many people to get to know other parts of the country and admire its beauty beyond the capital.

“Those who have the means to do so”, the president said, “should consider it more important to travel around and know Ghana before they embark on the next vacation to Dubai”.

He, therefore, charged the authorities in charge of tourism to put in the necessary measures to ensure a boost in the sector.

“If they get it right with internal Ghanaian tourists then they will be ready to cope with foreign tourists,” he added.

Mr Akufo-Addo charged “those who live in the big cities, in particular, to get around the country a little”, adding that “it might just change their outlook, make them a little more tolerant about the difficulties that we need to overcome”.