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Ghana Tourism Authority develops draft National Animal Welfare Policy
•2 min read•1 source
The Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) has commenced the formulation of a draft National Animal Welfare Policy to regulate the treatment of animals across the country’s tourism facilities. Developed in partnership with the Animal Welfare League, the policy is designed to create a standardized framework that governs how animals are cared for, sheltered, and utilized within the sector. This initiative marks a significant step in the authority’s broader strategy to modernize Ghana's tourism landscape while adhering to international ethical standards.
The proposed policy will establish mandatory minimum welfare standards that all tourism-related establishments must follow. This includes ensuring that animals are provided with adequate food, medical care, and living conditions that meet their physiological and behavioral needs. Beyond direct care, the policy will also address the responsible sourcing of animal-based products used in the industry and set clear guidelines for visitor-animal interactions to prevent exploitation or harm. Relevant facilities will be expected to maintain updated internal welfare policies and undergo regular inspections to ensure compliance with these national benchmarks.
The GTA is prioritizing a participatory approach to the policy’s development, with plans to launch a series of stakeholder consultations across Ghana. These engagements are intended to gather critical feedback from site managers, conservationists, and tourism operators to ensure the final document is both robust and implementable. The authority anticipates completing the draft by the end of the current month. By codifying animal welfare, the GTA aims to bolster Ghana’s appeal to conscientious international travelers and solidify the nation’s commitment to sustainable and ethical tourism development.
