Ghana Tops West Africa as Safe, Competitive Tourism Destination — Abeiku Santana

Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Tourism Authority, Abeiku Santana, has said Ghana has emerged as one of the leading and most competitive tourism destinations in West Africa, largely due to its strong security record and growing tourist arrivals.

Speaking in an interview on TV3, he revealed that Ghana currently leads the sub-region in visitor numbers and ranks highly on the global safety index. “We have been rated the safest country in West Africa. In terms of visitor arrival numbers, we are the leading destination in West Africa, so we are 100 per cent safe. On the global safety index, Ghana ranks very high,” he stated.

Mr Santana commended the Ghana Police Service and the Cyber Security Authority for their role in safeguarding the country and preserving its international image.

He also addressed a recent viral video in which a woman alleged she had been kidnapped by officers of the Ghana Police Service. According to him, investigations later proved the claim to be false. “Concerning the video where a lady said she was kidnapped by the Ghana Police, she later admitted she was paid to do that. The Cyber Security Authority traced everything, her personal details and even the flight she boarded,” he explained.

He cautioned against efforts to undermine the country’s security institutions, stressing that Ghana’s security system remains vigilant and effective. “Don’t joke with the security apparatus of Ghana,” he warned.

Mr Santana further noted that Ghana has become particularly attractive to tourists, especially African-Americans, due to its safety, hospitality and rich cultural heritage, adding that “Ghana has become the most competitive destination for tourists.”