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The Minister for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Abla Dzifa Gomashie, has called for the benefits of Ghana’s December festivities to translate into lasting employment and stronger local businesses.
Launching “December in GH 2026” under the theme “Ghana to the World: Our Music, Our Culture, Our December,” she said the initiative’s success should be judged by the economic opportunities it creates for Ghanaians, rather than visitor numbers and excitement surrounding events.
Gomashie stressed that increased tourist arrivals must support livelihoods across the tourism and creative sectors, giving businesses and industry professionals opportunities to grow beyond the festive period.
She identified hoteliers, tour operators and booking agents among those who should benefit, alongside musicians, filmmakers, content creators and bloggers. Artisans, fashion designers, food vendors and young entrepreneurs should also share in the income generated by the season, she said.
The minister urged the public to focus less on disagreements over whether the festivities should be called “Detty December” or “December in GH.” In her view, the more important question is whether the celebrations create jobs and deliver meaningful benefits to local communities.
Ahead of the peak season, the Ghana Tourism Authority also cautioned businesses against excessive pricing, stressing the importance of fair charges in protecting Ghana’s reputation as a tourism destination.
The warning reflects concerns that the seasonal increase in demand should support sustainable business growth while ensuring visitors receive value for money.
Building on initiatives such as the Year of Return, December in GH seeks to strengthen Ghana’s international appeal through music, culture and tourism, with greater emphasis on ensuring that local businesses and creative professionals benefit from that visibility.
Source: Omanghana
