The Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) has launched investigations into an alleged incident involving minors who were reportedly taken to a hotel in Accra New Town. The move comes after the issue surfaced on social media, sparking public concern.
In an official statement, the GTA confirmed that the matter has been reported to the Nima Division of the Ghana Police Service, which is currently handling the investigation.
As part of efforts to ensure compliance and uphold safety standards in the hospitality industry, the CEO of the GTA, Mrs. Maame Efua Houadjeto, dispatched a high-level team to visit the facility in question. The delegation included Mr. Gilbert Abeiku Aggrey, Deputy CEO (Special Duties), Mr. Ekow Sampson, Deputy CEO (Operations), Greater Accra Regional Director Ms. Roberta Dawson-Amoah, and Deputy Director of Marketing Ms. Clara Nketiah.
Their mission was to verify the facts and assess the situation on the ground in order to take appropriate regulatory action.
“We commend the Ghana Police Service for their co-operation and continued support in the ongoing investigation,” the statement said.
During the visit, the team also inspected the Royal Dede Beach Resort, which has been converted into a hostel without prior notification or approval from the GTA. Investigations revealed that the new operators were not in compliance with the Tourism (Registration and Licensing of Accommodation) Regulations, 2016 (L.I. 2239).
The operators have since been directed to the GTA’s Standards and Quality Assurance Department to regularize their operations.
The GTA reminded all accommodation operators that registration and licensing are mandatory before beginning operations, stressing that this is crucial for maintaining industry standards and protecting the public.
The Authority has reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining safety and quality in Ghana’s tourism sector and urged the public to report suspicious or non-compliant facilities to the nearest GTA office.
