Gilbert Abeiku Aggrey petitions Minister over access to GTA CEO

Gilbert Abeiku Aggrey, popularly known as Abeiku Santana and Deputy CEO of the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA), has petitioned the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Abla Dzifa Gomashie, over persistent difficulties in accessing the authority’s CEO, Maame Efua Houadjeto. In a formal letter dated October 22, 2026, Aggrey requested ministerial intervention to resolve a communication gap he claims is hindering official operations. He noted that repeated unsuccessful attempts to secure consultations with the CEO have resulted in significant delays for urgent assignments and critical decision-making, particularly within his remit of domestic tourism and marketing.

Aggrey emphasized that his petition is not a personal grievance but a necessary step to address institutional inefficiencies that affect stakeholder engagements and project delivery. He stated that the lack of timely guidance and approvals has created operational setbacks, making it difficult to execute the authority's mandate effectively. Despite these challenges, Aggrey—who was appointed to his role by President John Mahama in February 2025—reaffirmed his commitment to working collaboratively with the management team to achieve the ministry’s strategic objectives.

In a swift response dated October 24, 2026, CEO Maame Efua Houadjeto expressed "surprise and disappointment" at her deputy's claims. In a letter addressed to the GTA Board Chairperson, Houadjeto refuted the allegation that she is unreachable, asserting that she maintains an open-door policy for all senior management staff. She acknowledged that while operational demands and conflicting schedules can present challenges, she remains committed to professional cooperation and the strategic growth of Ghana’s tourism sector.

To improve internal coordination and resolve the impasse, Houadjeto has proposed five specific measures to strengthen management processes. These include the introduction of regular executive consultations to discuss departmental priorities, the establishment of clear protocols for flagging urgent matters, and more structured meeting schedules. Both officials have indicated a willingness to enhance internal communication to ensure the Ghana Tourism Authority operates with the efficiency required to meet its national targets.