A high-powered delegation of tourism stakeholders accompanied by officials of the Gambia Tourism Authority, recently returned from an insightful visit to Ghana. The delegation included members of the Gambia Hotel Association (GHA), The Association of Small Scale Enterprises in Tourism (ASSET), Tourism and Travel Association of the Gambia (TTAG), The Fashion Designers’ Association and Slok Air International.

Prior to the visit, a Ghanaian delegation visited their Gambian counterparts in the Gambia recently where a memorandum of understanding (MOU) was signed to cement the bond that exists between the two countries.
The main aim of the visit was to foster regional integration within the tourism sector and increase the number of visitors into the country from the sub-region which is in line with the Gambia Tourism Authority diversifying its market sources.  Meetings were held on the promotion of regional tourism, joint marketing programmes, Human Resources Development amongst other areas.

During the visit a Gambian Day was organised which showcased the best Tourism products and services the Gambia has to offer. The day also provided an opportunity for the delegation to interact with their Ghanaian counter parts from the tourism sector and potential investors who have shown great interest in the tourism sector. The delegation also seized the opportunity and educated the Ghanaians about the products, services and cultural activities the Gambia has to offer. The day was concluded with give away packs which consist of information about the Gambia and raffle prize’s which includes free air ticket to the Gambia and complimentary accommodation in various hotels.    

The delegation visited most of the major tourist sites in the country as the ternary took the group round the country from Kumasi home of the Ashante Royal family to Almina Castle. The delegation found it interesting to see the Ghanaian take on Responsible Toursim and Eco tourism.

A Joint Marketing Committee will be formed to explore the opportunities in which the two countries can collaborate in joint marketing campaigns ranging from organising cultural festivals in which reciprocal marketing can take place.