Accra, Ghana – June 11, 2025- Ghana and Jamaica have reaffirmed their commitment to deepening ties in tourism, culture, and the creative arts following a high-level meeting in Accra between Ghana’s Deputy Minister of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Hon. Yussif Issaka Jajah, and Jamaica’s new ambassador, H.E. Lincoln G. Downer.
Hon. Jajah welcomed the ambassador and highlighted the deep historical and cultural connections between the two nations. He noted ongoing partnerships in education and healthcare, and described Ghana as a second home for Jamaicans, emphasizing the importance of cultural exchange.
Ambassador Downer described Ghana as a “spiritual home” for many Jamaicans and spoke of the cultural similarities he observed during his visit to Ghana’s northern regions. He emphasized the importance of engaging the Jamaican diaspora in Africa and proposed stronger cooperation in tourism. Citing Jamaica’s $4 billion tourism revenue in the previous year, he encouraged mutual learning and collaboration through institutions like the Global Tourism Resilience and Crisis Management Centre.
He also referenced a 2005 cultural cooperation agreement and suggested renewed technical collaboration in heritage preservation, film, and animation.
Ghana’s tourism strengths were presented by Hon. Jajah, who highlighted the country’s unique assets—such as 29 forts and castles—and natural attractions. Despite fewer tourist arrivals than Jamaica, Ghana achieves similar revenue, signaling untapped potential. He expressed interest in learning from Jamaica’s tourism strategies.
Culture and Creative Arts Director Mr. Divine Owusu Ansah discussed ongoing heritage restitution efforts, including collaboration with Colombia, and invited Jamaica to participate in such advocacy, especially as Ghana prepares to lead the ECOWAS restitution committee.
Dr. Alphonse Kumaza outlined future joint initiatives, such as a Ghanaian carnival supported by Jamaica, expanding national festivals like NAFAC, and strengthening cultural exchange programs.
Director of Tourism Dr. Geoffrey Tamakloe underscored the importance of promoting a Pan-African spirit to enhance unity and collaboration in tourism, trade, and culture between nations with shared African heritage.
The meeting ended on a positive note, with both countries pledging to translate their discussions into actionable partnerships, serving as a model for African-Caribbean cooperation. Also in attendance were Chief Director Mr. Joseph K. Amoah, and directors Mr. Kofi Benning and Ms. Solace Buame.
Source: Public Relations Unit- MoTCCA
