The 8th edition of Accra Weizo, West Africa’s leading travel expo, officially kicked off today 27th of June, 2025 at the Accra City Hotel, Ghana.
With the theme “Seamless Travel in West Africa: Opportunities and Challenges,” the event brought together tourism stakeholders, government officials, tour operators, and development partners from across the region to discuss practical ways of improving travel experiences and regional integration.
Since its inception in 2015, Accra Weizo stands as a beacon for collaboration in the West African tourism sector. Its choice to begin in Ghana was deliberate, as the country is often described as the birthplace of the African spirit. This historical and cultural significance has made Ghana the ideal host for a platform aimed at building strong, cross-border connections in tourism.
Speaking at the event, Hon. Maame Efua Houadjeto, CEO of the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA), emphasized the authority’s broader vision for tourism. She explained that the GTA’s mission goes beyond hospitality and leisure. “Tourism must work for the people,” she said. “It must help preserve heritage sites, empower communities through tourism-based jobs, and serve as a vehicle for protecting our national identity.”
Her remarks laid a solid foundation for other speakers who echoed the need for a more unified and people centered tourism industry. Prof. Kobby Mensa, CEO of the Ghana Tourism Development Company, added depth to this vision by highlighting Africa’s inherent tourism potential. He called on all stakeholders to be bold in their efforts. “The continent is absolutely tourism,” he noted, “but to tap into that fully, we need courage and collaboration to unify our approach.”
This push for unity and collaboration was reinforced by Yvonne Donkor, President of the Tour Operators Union of Ghana (TOUGHA), who focused on actionable strategies for achieving seamless travel across borders. She stressed the importance of advocating for policies that support cross-border tourism, continuous dialogue among stakeholders, and innovative partnerships that can break down barriers limiting regional travel.
As Accra Weizo 2025 continues, the event stands as more than just a trade expo, it is a rallying point for the future of West African tourism. Through shared goals, bold ideas, and strategic partnerships, stakeholders are working to create a region where travel is not only seamless, but also meaningful and beneficial to communities across the continent.
