Ghana to Host 70th UN Tourism Commission for Africa in 2027

Ghana has secured the right to host the landmark 70th Session of the UN Tourism Commission for Africa, CAF, in 2027, following a decision at the 69th CAF meeting held in Seychelles. 

The announcement positions Ghana to welcome tourism leaders, policymakers, and industry stakeholders from across the continent at a time of major national significance. 

The 2027 CAF session will coincide with Ghana’s 70th Independence Anniversary, creating what officials describe as a historic opportunity to showcase the country’s rich cultural heritage, vibrant creative arts, warm hospitality, and diverse tourism attractions to Africa and the world. 

Presenting Ghana’s successful bid, the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Hon. Abla Dzifa Gomashie, underscored the government’s commitment to leveraging tourism as a catalyst for sustainable development, economic transformation, cultural exchange, and African integration. 

“Hosting CAF 2027 is more than a conference. It is a platform to tell the Ghana story, to project our heritage, our creativity, and our people, and to deepen partnerships that will grow tourism across Africa,” the Minister said. 

The UN Tourism Commission for Africa is the highest policymaking body for tourism on the continent under UN Tourism. It brings together tourism ministers and senior officials to set policy direction, share best practices, and advance strategies for the sector’s growth. 

Tourism stakeholders say hosting the 70th session will further strengthen Ghana’s position as a leading destination for heritage, cultural, and diaspora tourism. It is also expected to provide a significant boost to local businesses in hospitality, transport, events, and the creative arts, while giving global visibility to Ghana’s tourism products. 

With preparations expected to begin in earnest, government and industry players are already projecting CAF 2027 as a key milestone in Ghana’s tourism calendar and in the country’s broader efforts to make tourism a pillar of economic growth. 

By: Anita Oppong Yeboah