The Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has announced that the ultra-modern Ghana Trade Fair Convention Centre in La, Accra, will be completed by September 2025.
The facility, with a 20,000-seat capacity, is set to become one of the largest multi-purpose centres in West Africa, catering to conventions, conferences, and entertainment events for the tourism and creative arts industries.
Dr. Bawumia disclosed this during a working visit to the construction site on Monday, November 25, 2024.
He described the project as a long-overdue national aspiration and a critical step toward fostering economic growth through tourism and creative arts.
“For a very long time, governments have been unable to execute this project. It is much needed because tourism and creative arts are key pillars for our economy’s growth,” he said.
The Vice President explained how the facility will transform the creative arts industry. “Currently, the largest auditorium in Ghana has a capacity of less than 3,000. This limits artists, increases ticket costs, and reduces audience demand. A 20,000-capacity centre will lower costs, attract larger audiences, and boost revenue for the industry,” he added.
Dr. Bawumia also emphasized the Convention Centre’s potential to position Ghana as a premier destination for international conferences and exhibitions.
“With the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Secretariat here, this facility will synergize with trade and attract major events, enhancing Ghana’s appeal as a hub for exhibitions, conventions, and entertainment.”
Expressing satisfaction with the progress of the project, Dr. Bawumia commended the contractors and workers for their efforts.
“The work is advanced, with all necessary amenities in place. I’m optimistic that the project will be completed in eight months, and I look forward to commissioning it as President by September.”
He reassured the creative arts industry of the government’s commitment to addressing their challenges.
“By God’s grace, we are delivering a world-class facility to provide much-needed space for shows and events, fulfilling a critical need for the sector.”
The Ghana Trade Fair Convention Centre is expected to drive significant growth in Ghana’s tourism and creative arts industries, creating new opportunities for economic development.