Accra
Ghana
GDN DESTINATION REPORT
Overview: Accra, the capital city of Ghana, is one of the leading destinations for governmental and institutional events in West Africa. As a growing economic hub and a politically stable city, Accra is a key venue for discussions on regional cooperation, peacebuilding, and development within the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). The city frequently hosts high-level summits and international conferences that address major issues affecting the region. Identification as a Key Destination: The Governmental Destination Network (GDN) has identified Accra as a key destination for international diplomacy and cooperation due to its strategic role in West African political and economic affairs.
Infrastructure and services
Recent Updates: Accra has seen significant improvements in its infrastructure, particularly at Kotoka International Airport, which has expanded its capacity to serve international governmental delegations. The city offers a wide range of high-end hotels such as the Kempinski Hotel Gold Coast City and the Movenpick Ambassador Hotel, which are frequently used for international summits and diplomatic meetings. Service Ecosystem: Accra provides a well-established ecosystem of services, including secure transportation, high-quality hospitality, and event logistics, making it a premier destination for international meetings and conferences.
Benchmarking destinations
Comparison with Other Key Destinations: In West Africa, Accra competes with cities like Dakar and Lagos for hosting governmental and institutional events. While Lagos is a major economic hub and Dakar is known for its political influence, Accra distinguishes itself through its stability, welcoming environment, and growing importance as a center for international diplomacy in the region. Real Comparative Figures: According to the Ghana Tourism Authority, Accra's institutional travel sector generated approximately $180 million in 2022, highlighting the city's importance as a hub for international diplomacy and cooperation.
Growth projections
Growth Projections: Based on reports from the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) and the African Development Bank, Accra's governmental and institutional travel sector is expected to grow between 5% and 7% annually over the next five years. This growth is driven by Ghana's increasing role in regional diplomacy and its expanding economy. By 2028, Accra's institutional travel sector is projected to generate over $250 million annually, solidifying its position as one of West Africa's leading destinations for international summits and governmental meetings.
Successful experiences
A significant event hosted in Accra was the 2021 ECOWAS Extraordinary Summit, which brought together leaders from across West Africa to discuss regional security and economic integration. The event attracted over 1,000 delegates and generated an estimated $25 million in economic impact, according to the Ghana Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Testimonials
Nana Akufo-Addo, President of Ghana: "Accra's role as a center for regional and international diplomacy continues to grow, and we are committed to further developing the city as a premier destination for international cooperation." Jean-Claude Kassi Brou, President of the ECOWAS Commission: "Accra's stability and welcoming environment make it an ideal location for high-level discussions on the future of West Africa."
Sustainability and Social Responsibility
Green Initiatives: Accra has implemented sustainable practices in event management, including the use of renewable energy at key venues and efforts to reduce waste during international events. These initiatives are supported by partnerships with international organizations such as the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). Circular Economy: The city is also prioritizing local procurement and eco-friendly practices in event management, contributing to the development of a sustainable and circular economy.
Social impact
Local Development: Governmental events in Accra have created significant employment opportunities in sectors such as security, logistics, and hospitality, benefiting the local economy. Concrete Actions: Accra has partnered with international organizations to provide training programs for local workers, enhancing their skills in event management and creating pathways to employment in the city's growing events sector.
Conclusion
Key Points Summary: Accra is solidifying its position as one of the leading destinations for governmental and institutional travel in West Africa. With its expanding infrastructure, strategic location, and growing role in regional diplomacy, Accra is set to continue its growth as a hub for international cooperation and high-level discussions in the coming years.
The information presented in this GDN REPORT on government destinations has been prepared to offer a comprehensive overview of the most strategic destinations globally. In this research process, a wide range of sources and studies carried out by prestigious international consulting, tourism and travel firms, as well as by international organizations such as the WTTC and UN Tourism, have been used. In addition, local, national and international reports have been incorporated, ensuring a comprehensive and global perspective. To ensure accuracy and scientific rigor, data mining techniques, algorithms and artificial intelligence have been applied in the collection and analysis of the information. The result has been synthesized and condensed to offer clear, concise and truthful data, designed to provide decision-makers with the necessary tools to understand and make the most of the potential of these destinations. Our goal is to support the planning and organization of high-level events with accurate and relevant information, thus strengthening the role of each destination in diplomacy and international cooperation.