Ghana’s tourism and creative arts sectors offer significant potential to diversify the economy and generate employment in 2026, according to a report by EM Advisory.
The advisory highlighted that the recovery of global travel and renewed cultural interest presents a unique opportunity to monetise Ghana’s rich heritage.
It noted that the “Year of Return” campaign demonstrated strong diaspora engagement and growing demand for cultural tourism.
“Investments in air connectivity, hotel capacity, and destination marketing could position Ghana as a premier African destination for tourists and creative professionals,” the report said.
Tourism and the arts also create jobs quickly, particularly for young people. From hospitality and transport to content creation and event management, these sectors can absorb labour faster than manufacturing or agriculture.
“In a country with youth unemployment exceeding 13 percent, these sectors could provide meaningful pathways to income,” the report emphasised.
Moreover, tourism generates foreign exchange without the volatility associated with commodities such as gold or cocoa.
With supportive policies, such as visa facilitation, creative industry incentives, and heritage site development, Ghana could leverage tourism and the arts to boost both GDP and export earnings.
EM Advisory concluded that unlocking this potential requires consistent engagement from both government and the private sector.
“2026 is a year to accelerate investments in tourism and the creative economy. Success in these sectors would diversify revenue streams, create jobs, and enhance Ghana’s global brand,” the report stated.
