The Minister for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Madam Catherine Afeku has urged members of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to identify their unique culture and natural resources, which when harnessed can provide a competitive advantage for development.

Available statistics over the years have shown tourism as a key economic and development booster, with an estimated US7.6 trillion generated in 2016 from Travel and Tourism globally.

The figures also indicated that 292 million jobs were created, equivalent to 1 in 10 jobs in the global economy.

Locally, the annual international visitors to Ghana is roughly 950,000 and is expected to grow to 1.5 million by 2024 with the sector already contributing approximately 4.8% to the country’s GDP.

Speaking at the “Inaugural West Africa Integrated Travel forum” held in Accra, Madam Afeku was optimistic the prioritization of tourism by member states of ECOWAS can provide the economic base and competitive advantage needed to improve development.

“Tourism remains one of the key economic activities within countries in our sub region, creating numerous jobs and being a source of direct or indirect livelihood for millions. Our region is famous for its cultural diversity and rich history and is endowed with a lot of attractive attractions – from coastal forts, unique mud architecture to distinctive landscapes, national parks and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Given the diversity of the natural resources in West Africa, the sub-region possesses a huge potential for economic growth, if all systems are put in place to harness this low hanging fruit.

This is because despite the ever-increasing and unpredictable shocks from terrorist attacks and political instability, to health pandemics and natural disasters, Travel and Tourism continues to show resilience.”

She also called for collaboration within the member states to boost tourism within West Africa.

“In the increasingly competitive global market, it is time we appreciate that tourism can provide the economic base for development.

I, therefore, urge all of us to learn from other regional blocks and work in close corporation with each other to help the sector grow within Africa.”