The Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts has announced the immediate reopening of Ussher Fort and James Fort to the public, following the completion of safety reviews that allow controlled access to the historic sites.
The decision comes after a period of temporary closure that was instituted solely on public safety grounds while restoration works were ongoing. According to the Ministry, extensive consultations and assessments carried out in collaboration with the Ghana Museums and Monuments Board (GMMB) have confirmed that adequate safety measures are now in place.
As part of the reopening, the Ministry said visits to both forts will be closely regulated to ensure that public access does not compromise visitor safety or disrupt restoration activities.
Strict access guidelines and monitoring mechanisms have been introduced, and all visitors, tour guides, and tour operators are required to fully comply with the new measures.
The Ministry cautioned that access to unauthorised or restricted areas within the forts remains strictly prohibited, stressing that enforcement will be rigorous to protect both the public and the integrity of the heritage sites.
It further expressed appreciation to the general public and stakeholders for their cooperation and understanding during the closure period, noting that the temporary restriction was necessary to safeguard lives.
The Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts reaffirmed its commitment to preserving Ghana’s cultural heritage while ensuring that historic landmarks remain safe, accessible, and educational for visitors, as restoration efforts continue.