By Hafsa Obeng
Accra, May 22, GNA – Mr. Emmanuel Frimpong, a Tourism Consultant and Analyst, says the success of the newly launched ‘Black Star Experience’ would depend on strong infrastructure development.
He said urgent investments were needed in transportation, energy, utilities, and digital systems to fully realise the initiative’s potential.
“Investments in infrastructure development will contribute to sustainable tourism by creating lasting attractions and facilities that benefit both locals and visitors,” he said in an interview with the Ghana News Agency.
“We need to lay the groundwork for this experience to thrive including digital infrastructure to ensure seamless booking and promotion globally,” he added.
Mr. Frimpong described the Black Star Experience as a transformative initiative that could boost Ghana’s position as a global travel destination.
He said the Experience, anchored on seven pillars—cinema, audio, cuisines, aesthetics, style, literature, and heritage—offered a comprehensive platform to showcase Ghana’s cultural diversity in modern contexts.
Mr. Frimpong noted that the initiative would generate economic opportunities for creatives and preserve traditional cultural practices.
He stressed the importance of tourism policies, public-private partnerships, and international collaborations—such as with the African Development Bank—in driving long-term success.
“The engagement with the diaspora will also strengthen cultural ties and encourage diaspora communities to contribute to the preservation and promotion of Ghanaian heritage,” he said.
Mr. Frimpong called for collaboration across the tourism and hospitality sectors to maximise benefits from the Experience.
“Stakeholders must establish regular stakeholder engagement platforms, develop integrated cultural and tourism packages, empower local communities and promote inclusivity, and align with national tourism strategies,” he said.
Mr. Frimpong urged the industry to leverage digital tools for promotion and booking, invest in training, promote Ghana as a Meetings Incentive Conferences and Exhibition (MICE) destination, and foster public-private partnerships.
He said collaboration between government agencies and the private sector would boost tourism infrastructure, improve services, and enhance marketing.
“By embracing these collaborative strategies, stakeholders can collectively enhance the Black Star Experience, positioning Ghana as a vibrant, inclusive, and sustainable tourism destination,” he said.
Mr. Frimpong also highlighted the potential of using influencers and celebrities with African heritage to promote the Beyond the Return initiative.
“A strong online presence is also crucial for reaching international audiences. Ensuring that information about Black Star Experience is easily accessible and engaging to drive interest and participation,” he said.
He called for travel packages tailored to the African diaspora, including heritage tours and community engagement opportunities.
Mr. Frimpong urged the diaspora to invest in Ghana through clear pathways for community involvement and economic participation to deepen connections beyond tourism.
He called on President Mahama to personally support and lead the marketing of the initiative abroad.
GNA
Edited by Kenneth Sackey