The rhythmic beats of drums, vibrant kente fabrics, and spirited dances filled the air as Ghana celebrated World Tourism Day 2025 in grand style through the Somè Tutuza Festival in the Volta Region. This year’s commemoration, held under the global theme “Tourism and Sustainable Transformation,” was a colorful fusion of culture, heritage, and vision for a prosperous, united Ghana.
Leading the celebration at the Agbozume School Park, the Minister for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Hon. Abla Dzifa Gomashie, reaffirmed the role of tourism and cultural festivals in building resilient communities and sustainable livelihoods.
“Aflao is Ghana’s welcoming gateway — where every visitor first experiences our warmth, hospitality, and creativity,” she said. “By investing in our cultural heritage, we invest in our people’s pride, peace, and prosperity.”
Representing President John Dramani Mahama, Dr. Goosie Tannoh, Presidential Advisor on the 24-Hour Economy and Accelerated Export Development, emphasized the administration’s commitment to empowering youth through innovation, creative arts, and community enterprises.
“This festival reminds us of who we are — a people bound by history, united by peace, and driven by purpose,” he stated, pledging that the 24-Hour Economy would harness tourism’s potential to create jobs and wealth.
Under the local theme, “Consolidating Peace and Unity for Social, Cultural, and Economic Development,” the Somè Tutuza Festival became a melting pot of tradition, dialogue, and festivity. From symbolic ancestral rites to breathtaking performances, the event showcased the Volta Region’s cultural wealth to a national and international audience.
Torgbuiga Adamah III, Paramount Chief and President of the Some Traditional Area, expressed deep gratitude to the Government and to Hon. Dzifa Gomashie for championing the integration of World Tourism Day with the Some Tutuza. “This honour affirms our place in Ghana’s cultural journey and the global tourism map,” he said.
As part of the celebrations, both President John Mahama and Hon. Abla Dzifa Gomashie were honoured by the people of the Some Traditional Area for their exceptional leadership and contributions to national development.
The ceremony drew high-profile dignitaries, including Mr. Johnson Asiedu Nketia, National Chairman of the NDC, Directors of the Ministry, traditional leaders, and cultural ambassadors from across the country.
Marking the Some people’s historic migration from Keta, the festival continues to embody resilience, unity, and cultural continuity. This year’s joint celebration not only revitalized local pride but also reaffirmed Ghana’s position as a leading destination for cultural and sustainable tourism.
Source Hebrews Pouyeli Kumako// NewsVolta
