Tourism Minister dazzled by Kintampo Waterfalls, issues stern warning to encroachers

On Monday, Ghana's Tourism Minister, Dzifa Abla Gomashie, journeyed through the Bono and Bono East regions. This visit was part of a three-day tour aimed at assessing the country's tourism, cultural, and creative assets. On her final stop, the Minister was greeted by the majestic Kintampo Waterfalls, one of Ghana's most impressive natural wonders.

As she beheld the falls, Minister Gomashie expressed her astonishment, declaring the falls a "national treasure" and praising the community for their commitment to preserving the site’s pristine condition.

While her heart swelled with admiration, Gomashie's tone shifted to firmness as she addressed the threat of encroachment. She warned potential land grabbers, stating, "Stay away before the government comes after you. This environment is a national treasure, and we will protect it at all costs." Her caution echoes recent directives to safeguard Ghana's heritage sites, such as the immediate removal of unauthorized structures around forts and castles.

Minister Gomashie's visit was not solely about appreciation but also about galvanizing support for the region’s tourism potential. She urged both Ghanaians and the diaspora to visit Kintampo, describing it as the "centre of Ghana" with attractions ranging from swimming in natural pools to hiking forest trails. This region, including sites like the Boabeng Fiema Monkey Sanctuary and Digya National Park, presents a burgeoning eco-tourism opportunity.

The Minister’s tour through Bono East signifies a strategic shift towards harnessing tourism for economic development. Her engagements are set to inform the Ministry of Tourism’s plans for sustainable growth across selected sites. As the sun dipped below the horizon, Gomashie’s message was clear: embrace the beauty of Kintampo, invest in its future, but avoid any actions that would compromise its natural essence.