George Justice Arthur calls for heritage investment in Cape Coast

The Mayor of Cape Coast, George Justice Arthur, has called for increased investment in heritage accommodation and digital tourism services to elevate the city into a global travel destination. Speaking at the opening of the sixth Inter Tourism Expo Accra (iNTTA) at the Ridge Royal Hotel on October 21, 2026, the Mayor emphasized the need for investors to move beyond basic hospitality and focus on creating unique, memorable experiences. He highlighted boutique hotels and professional guided tours as key areas where the private sector can help showcase the city’s rich cultural history.

Mayor Arthur also advocated for a strategic shift in how the tourism industry interacts with the local economy, particularly through the establishment of a 24-hour economy. He argued that extending business hours and leveraging digital innovation would enhance productivity and global competitiveness. To support this vision, he urged tourism businesses to form stronger partnerships with local agribusinesses, including farmers, fishers, and food processors. By sourcing supplies locally, hotels and restaurants can ensure that tourism revenue stays within the community to create sustainable jobs.

The three-day expo, which runs until October 23, features a vibrant exhibition of "Made-in-Ghana" products ranging from herbal medicine and cosmetics to traditional arts and crafts. These exhibits are designed to demonstrate the diverse range of local industries that can be integrated into the tourism value chain. The event has gathered tourism professionals, policymakers, and financial institutions to explore how collaboration between sectors can drive broader industrial growth.

As Cape Coast pursues its goal of becoming a premier international hub, the Mayor called for a unified approach involving agribusiness and financial services to support local manufacturers and artisans. By fostering these cross-sector links, the city aims to build a resilient economy where tourism serves as a catalyst for wider enterprise development. The iNTTA exhibition serves as a critical platform for connecting these local brands with the international markets and investors necessary for long-term expansion.