The Tour Operators Union of Ghana (TOUGHA) received an award for their contribution to the development of Tourism in Ghana at the National Tourism Awards held at the Accra International Conference Centre yesterday.

TOUGHA received the award for the Trade Association's Contribution to the development of the sector.

Speaking to the media after the recognition, President of TOUGHA Alisa Osei Asamoah said "What a triumphant and glorious way to end the year! It was a surreal moment last night as the Tour Operators Union of Ghana."

She said the latest and perhaps the most prestigious accolade is a culmination of their efforts in driving Ghana's tourism agenda in the past few years, and the crowning moment couldn't have come at a better time than at the country’s biggest tourism night.

"We deeply appreciate the Ghana Tourism Authority for the recognition, and to our executives, we say Ayekoo! for your continued exceptional leadership in driving our Union to enviable heights.

Sincere thanks also goes to the individual TOUGHA members who have shown grit and dedication to the course of transforming the Union into a formidable force in Ghana's tourism industry," she added.

According to her "This win is for us all. TOUGHA! Indeed, we are the professionals."

In June, TOUGHA which is an association of experienced professionals in the tourism and travel industry in Ghana that offers both inbound and outbound tours was adjudged the “Best Association in Tourism” at the Business Executive Excellence Awards.

The association has over the years contributed immensely to tourism development ensuring high standards in the industry.

The National Tourism Awards was instituted by the Ghana Tourism Authority in 1997 to reward excellent performance in the tourism sector. It is one of the flagship events of the GTA and it sets the tone for high standards in service delivery among practitioners in the tourism sector.