The Ghana Tourism Authority has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Governor of the United States Virgin Islands, Albert Bryan Jr., to promote strategic cooperation in tourism development, cultural exchange, trade facilitation, and investment promotion between Ghana and the U.S. territory.
The MoU was signed by the Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Tourism Authority, Kafui Danku, during the USVI–Africa Mini Summit held at the Westin Beach Resort and Spa, Frenchman’s Reef, in St. Thomas.
The agreement is considered highly strategic, creating reciprocal access between Ghana, positioned as the gateway to Africa, and one of the leading tourism destinations linked to the United States. The framework is expected to strengthen people-to-people relations, deepen cultural exchange, boost trade and investment in key sectors, and establish stronger connections with the African diaspora.
Governor Albert Bryan Jr. described the agreement as one that goes beyond tourism, emphasizing its deeper historical and cultural significance. He noted that the memorandum establishes an important connection across the Atlantic rooted in shared history and mutual opportunity.
Virginia recorded the highest tourism spending among U.S. states in 2024, with visitor expenditure reaching 35.1 billion dollars. The destination continues to attract visitors through its scenic landscapes, cultural experiences, and historical significance, with tourism growth driving spending, job creation, and revenue generation.
Tourist spending in Virginia averages $96 million daily, positioning it as a prime destination for both domestic and international travelers. The tourism sector created 5,000 additional jobs in 2024, bringing total tourism-related employment to 229,000 jobs across hospitality, recreation, and service industries. The increase in tourism activity saves households approximately 990 dollars annually, easing financial pressure and improving living standards.
Ghana has also recorded strong performance within its tourism sector. According to the Ghana Statistical Service, visitor expenditure stood at 15.42 billion cedis, with daily spending averaging 24 million cedis. Overnight visitors accounted for 15.18 billion cedis, reflecting the substantial contribution of inbound tourism to the national economy.
Ghana continues to attract visitors with its rich cultural heritage and historical significance, including sites linked to the transatlantic slave trade, colonial history, and the country’s journey to independence and democracy. Key attractions visited by international travelers include the Bisa Abrewa Museum, Cape Coast Castle, Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park, Independence Square, the Arts Centre, and the National Museum.
Between the last quarter of 2022 and the third quarter of 2023, a total of 901,448 international visitors were recorded in Ghana. Of this number, 12,864 were same-day visitors, while 888,584 were overnight visitors. Overnight arrivals accounted for 98.6 percent of total inbound visitors during the period.
The Ghana Tourism Authority reaffirmed its commitment to building meaningful international partnerships that enhance Ghana’s global presence, strengthen diaspora ties, and unlock new opportunities in tourism, trade, and investment, further positioning the country as a bridge between heritage and opportunity.
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