Abla Dzifa Gomashie launches 2026 December in GH calendar with 150 events

The Minister for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Abla Dzifa Gomashie, has officially launched the calendar for the 2026 "December in GH" festivities, signalling the start of Ghana's peak tourism season. Speaking at an event held at the Labadi Beach Hotel, the Minister revealed that the 2026 program features over 150 events scheduled nationwide, with more than 100 of these activities concentrated in the capital, Accra. The initiative, which is a key component of the "Black Star Experience," is being organized under the theme "Ghana Welcomes the World Home."

During the launch, Madam Gomashie emphasized that the value of the annual celebrations must extend beyond mere entertainment to deliver tangible economic benefits for Ghanaians. She urged stakeholders to ensure the festivities serve as a catalyst for job creation and provide a robust support system for local businesses within the creative and tourism sectors. The Minister stated that the true success of the season should be measured by the sustainable opportunities it creates for local entrepreneurs and the broader economic impact on the country.

Supporting this economic vision, the Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA), Maame Efua Houadjeto, called for greater inclusion of local musicians and creative professionals in the various event line-ups. A significant addition to this year's calendar is the inaugural African Festival of Arts, Culture and Creatives (AFESTACC), which is set to debut in December 2026. This new festival is expected to further enhance Ghana's cultural representation and solidify its position as a leading destination for heritage tourism.

The "December in GH" initiative continues to be a cornerstone of Ghana’s strategy to engage the global diaspora and international visitors. By focusing on both cultural promotion and local economic engagement, the Ministry and the GTA aim to foster sustainable growth within the tourism industry. Officials expressed confidence that the 2026 event schedule, with its diverse range of activities, will showcase the best of Ghanaian hospitality while driving significant revenue for the national economy.