GhanaWeb recently announced the nominees for the 2025 Edition of its annual GhanaWeb Excellence Awards.
These nominees have been categorised into more than 20 categories.
And as a way of bringing readers up to speed on who has been nominated, here are brief profiles of some of them.
All of the following have been nominated under the Hospitality Management category.
Raphael (Ralph) Mawuenyega Kojo Ayitey
Raphael (Ralph) Mawuenyega Kojo Ayitey is a respected Ghanaian hospitality executive and private-sector leader, widely recognized for his contributions to the growth of Ghana’s hotel industry. He serves as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Coconut Grove Hotels, one of Ghana’s leading hotel groups, where he provides strategic direction and oversees operations across the brand.
With more than two decades of experience at Coconut Grove Hotels, Ayitey rose steadily through managerial roles before assuming the position of CEO. Under his leadership, the brand has strengthened its reputation for service excellence, operational resilience, and innovation in guest experience.
Beyond his corporate leadership, Ayitey plays an active role in private-sector advocacy through the Association of Ghana Industries (AGI), Ghana’s largest business association. He has served as Hospitality Sector Chairperson, Executive Member of the National Executive Council, and National Treasurer.
His leadership credentials were further affirmed when the Ghana Hotels Association endorsed him as a presidential candidate for AGI, citing his transformational leadership style and commitment to industrial and sectoral development.
He has been nominated for excellence in hospitality management at the GhanaWeb Excellence Awards 2025.
Mercy Abena Twumwaa Asubonteng
Mercy Abena Twumwaa Asubonteng is a seasoned Ghanaian hospitality executive appointed General Manager of Western Serene Atlantic Hotel, a member of the First Sky Group, effective 1 September 2025. With over 20 years of experience in the hospitality and tourism sector, she has held several senior roles, including Food and Beverage Manager, Conference and Banqueting Executive, and Marketing Manager.
Before her official appointment, she served as Acting General Manager of Western Serene Atlantic Hotel, where she demonstrated strong strategic leadership and
strengthened key stakeholder relationships.
The hotel—formerly known as Best Western Plus Atlantic Hotel—is a historic luxury property in Takoradi, originally built in 1962, and is now positioned as a premier hospitality destination that blends modern luxury with Ghanaian heritage. She has been nominated for excellence in hospitality management at the GhanaWeb Excellence Awards 2025
Yaw Mamphey
Yaw Mamphey is a prominent Ghanaian hospitality executive and business leader, best known for his leadership role at Accra City Hotel. With more than a decade of experience in hotel sales, marketing, and operations, he has built a strong reputation for driving business growth and enhancing guest engagement.
He initially joined Accra City Hotel as Head of Sales & Marketing, where he led innovative revenue and branding strategies that expanded the hotel’s market share and earned it multiple industry recognitions.
In 2019, he was honored as “Best Marketing Director – Africa” at the Haute Grandeur Global Hotel Awards, and he has also been recognised as one of Ghana’s Most Admired Hospitality Professionals.
In 2024, he was promoted to Chief Operating Officer (COO), taking on broader responsibilities including hotel operations, guest experience, revenue optimisation, and staff development.
Beyond his executive role, Mamphey is an influential voice within Ghana’s hospitality industry, contributing to discussions on workforce development and post-pandemic recovery strategies. He has been nominated for excellence in hospitality management at the GhanaWeb Excellence Awards 2025.
Abeiku Santana Aggrey
Abeiku Santana, born Gilbert Abeiku Aggrey Santana on 16 February 1977, is a renowned Ghanaian media personality, entrepreneur, and tourism advocate. Over the years, he has made a significant impact on broadcasting, tourism promotion, and media communications.
He gained prominence as a radio and television host, particularly through his work on Okay FM and as host of the “Atuu” show on UTV. His dynamic on-air presence has made him one of Ghana’s most recognised media figures. In addition to his media career, he is the CEO of Kaya Tours Ghana Limited, a tour company
dedicated to promoting Ghana’s tourism and cultural heritage.
In 2025, he was appointed Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Tourism Authority by President John Dramani Mahama, supporting national efforts to expand and strengthen Ghana’s tourism sector.
He holds a Master’s degree in Tourism Management from the University of Cape Coast, a Postgraduate Diploma in Public Administration from GIMPA, and a Master’s degree in Marketing Strategy from the University of Ghana Business School. He has been nominated for Excellence in Hospitality Management at the GhanaWeb Excellence Awards 2025.
Rebecca Akosua Acheampomaa (Becca)
Rebecca Akosua Acheampomaa Acheampong, popularly known as Becca, is an award-winning Ghanaian singer, songwriter, and actress born on 15 August 1984 in Kumasi, Ghana. She rose to prominence as a contestant on the second season of the TV3 singing competition Mentor, which launched her professional music career.
Her debut album, Sugar (2007), and her second album, Time 4 Me (2013), produced several hit songs and solidified her status as one of Ghana’s leading female artists.
Afropop, R and B, and highlife, her popular singles include “You Lied to Me,” “African Woman,” and “Makoma.” Over the years, she has collaborated with prominent African artists and earned numerous awards and nominations.
Beyond her entertainment career, Becca holds a master’s degree in Brands and Communication Management from the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA), graduating as valedictorian with distinction. She has been nominated for excellence in hospitality management at the GhanaWeb Excellence Awards 2025.
