Reconnecting with home: How exploring Ghana strengthens our cultural identity

In a recent TikTok video, a creator expressed concern about the loss of "Ghanaianess" among Ghanaians, attributed to a decline in cultural aspects like language and fashion. This observation struck a chord with the reporter, who reflected on how little domestic tourism occurs within Ghana. While many aspire to visit iconic global landmarks, the reporter noted that Ghanaians often prioritize traveling abroad, such as to the Eiffel Tower or Burj Khalifa, rather than exploring the country's own attractions.

Domestic tourism numbers are minuscule compared to the over 34 million Ghanaian population, with just 1.79 million visitors annually.

The reporter highlighted that travel is typically limited to funerals, reunions, or work trips, and that leisure travel seldom includes domestic destinations. This lack of exploration raises questions about how we can preserve our cultural heritage when we seldom visit the places that embody it. The Ghana Tourism Authority has launched campaigns like "See Ghana, Eat Ghana, Wear Ghana, and Feel Ghana" and the #VisitCapeCoast initiative, aiming to promote travel within the country.

However, these efforts seem to fall on deaf ears, as people continue to prioritize international travel.

The reporter acknowledged that income constraints and poor road infrastructure contribute to the low domestic tourism numbers. Long travel times and costly flights discourage many from exploring the country's diverse regions. Additionally, hotel prices for locals are often on par with those of international visitors, further deterring travel.

The reporter suggested that to address these issues, new regional airports should be developed and subsidised hotel rates for local residents introduced. Furthermore, budget-friendly group tours and school excursions could pique younger generations' interest in domestic travel, ultimately breathing new life into Ghana's rich cultural tapestry.