Poor Furnishing of Tourist Sites a Major Concern – Black Travel Network Africa CEO
By Praisebell Rosemond Larbi
The Chief Executive Officer of Black Travel Network Africa, Nana Kwesi Danquah Otoo, has raised strong concerns about the state of furnishing and décor across Ghana’s tourist destinations, warning that the situation is undermining the country’s ability to deliver a compelling and competitive tourism experience.
Speaking on ZED Decor Live on ZED 101.9 FM, Mr. Otoo described the current state of décor in many tourism facilities as inadequate and inconsistent with the country’s rich cultural heritage and growing ambitions within the global tourism market.
He stressed that decor within the tourism sector should not be treated as a secondary consideration, but rather as a strategic tool for storytelling and cultural expression.
“Decor is not just about beautification; it is a form of storytelling. When tourists visit Ghana, the environment they encounter should immediately communicate our identity, our history, and our creativity,” he stated.
According to him, many tourist sites, hotels, and hospitality facilities across the country fail to fully leverage Ghanaian artefacts, traditional designs, and indigenous aesthetics that could significantly enhance visitor experience and create a more immersive cultural journey.
He noted that in a highly competitive global tourism industry, details such as furnishing, ambience, and presentation play a crucial role in shaping perceptions and influencing repeat visits.
Beyond aesthetics, Mr. Otoo raised concerns about sanitation standards within the hospitality sector, particularly in hotels, describing cleanliness as a non-negotiable aspect of service delivery.
He urged hotel managers and operators to place greater emphasis on maintaining high levels of hygiene, especially in guest rooms, which he said remain a critical touchpoint for visitors.
“No matter how beautiful a space is, if it is not clean, the entire experience is compromised. Cleanliness is one of the first things guests notice, and it directly affects whether they return or recommend the facility,” he emphasised.
Mr. Otoo further called for a more coordinated effort among stakeholders in the tourism and hospitality value chain to improve standards, noting that Ghana has the potential to position itself as a leading cultural tourism destination if attention is paid to detail.
He also encouraged investment in local craftsmanship and design, suggesting that integrating locally made furniture and decor elements could not only improve aesthetics but also support Ghanaian artisans and creative industries.
The Black Travel Network Africa CEO concluded that improving décor and cleanliness across tourist facilities is essential to enhancing Ghana’s tourism brand, attracting higher-value visitors, and ensuring long-term growth in the sector.
His remarks add to ongoing conversations about the need to elevate standards in Ghana’s tourism industry as the country continues to market itself as a premier destination for cultural, heritage, and leisure travel.
