Ghana Tourism Authority Commends Organizers at MICE Ghana Launch

10 Sep Ghana Tourism Authority Commends Organizers at MICE Ghana Launch

The Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) officially recognized the dedication of the Street of Gold Foundation and MICE Africa for their role in promoting tourism and honoring national heroes. This commendation was delivered by Gifty Ofeibea Koranteng Senanu, Deputy Director of the GTA’s Tema office, during a keynote address at the official launch of MICE Ghana.

Speaking on behalf of the GTA’s CEO, Mamaa Fua Owajeto, and the Tema Regional Director, Mr. Isaac Esiam, Senanu applauded the organizers’ decade-long commitment to consistency. “I want to take this opportunity to congratulate the Street of Gold Foundation and MICE Africa for their consistency,” she said. “I believe this is the tenth year, so I think they need an applause for being consistent in organizing the ‘Heroes Awards’ and ‘Miss MICE Africa.’”

Senanu highlighted that the event was more than just a ceremony; it was a continuation of a program dedicated to honoring national heroes. “It is a reminder

that courage, sacrifice, and service deserve lasting recognition,” she stated. She emphasized that the launch not only celebrates the deeds of heroes but also inspires future generations to embrace bravery and compassion.

Additionally, Senanu praised the “Miss MICE Global” pageant for its role in empowering women. She noted that the event helps ladies showcase their talents and provides them with opportunities to excel in their chosen fields. “Congratulations once again to the organizers for being consistent in organizing these programs,” she concluded.

Tourism Expert Emmanuel Frimpong Advocates for Mice Tourism as Ghana’s Economic Catalyst

Speaking at the event, tourism expert Emmanuel Frimpong, who serves as both the Executive Director of Inter Tourism Expo and President of the Africa Tourism Research Network, highlighted the untapped potential of Mice tourism in Ghana, urging authorities to pay attention to this lucrative sector.

Frimpong, also the CEO of Patient Consult, emphasized that Mice (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) tourism is a “massive gold mine” that could significantly boost the nation’s economy and create jobs. He pointed out that while other countries leverage this industry, Ghana lags behind, missing out on major opportunities. He shared a compelling anecdote about a U.S.-based company that, after struggling to bring 200 events to West Africa, was unable to make inroads.

“If Ghana could secure just 10% of those 200 events, it would change lives,” Frimpong stated. He explained that Mice tourism is an interconnected industry that benefits various sectors, including medical tourism, sports, gastronomy, and culture. Visitors for Mice events are often high-net-worth individuals who have the potential to invest in the country.

Frimpong also acknowledged the efforts of fellow industry leaders, including Gifty Kwafoa, the Greater Accra Regional Director of the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA), and applauded the organizers of the event for their commitment to promoting Mice tourism.

Despite the challenges, Frimpong expressed optimism about Ghana’s potential. He passionately argued that the country’s unique cultural assets, such as

its rich traditions, clothing (like kente and fugu), and renowned hospitality, are valuable intangible assets that set it apart. He recounted an experience where a group of visitors from Rwanda was fascinated by the opportunity to simply meet a Ghanaian chief.

“We have so much to give, but unfortunately, either our people don’t understand the industry very well, or we just want to play politics with it,” Frimpong said, urging a more cohesive approach from key stakeholders, including government officials, local agencies, and the construction industry. He concluded by calling on all Ghanaians, and especially the media, to champion the Mice industry to unlock its full potential.

Royal Pamford, the founder of Street of Good Foundation, announced that the

Mice Expo Africa event is scheduled to take place from September 25th to 27th at the Accra International Conference Centre.

Pamford explained that the expo’s main goal is to educate the West African region on the potential of Mice—an acronym for Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions.

“Our aim is to create awareness and encourage participation in Mice activities,” Pamford said. “The expo is open to the general public and attendees from nearby countries. It’s an international event where we will cover everything concerning Mice education.”

The founder emphasized that the expo is an inclusive event designed to accommodate a diverse range of participants. “We have dedicated segments for ‘Kids in Mice,’ ‘Youth in Mice,’ and ‘Women in Mice,’ so everyone is welcome to attend and participate,” Pamford added. The event is positioned as a critical step toward unlocking the economic benefits of the Mice industry for the entire region.

By Kingsley Asiedu

Ghana Tourism Authority Commends Organizers at MICE Ghana Launch