- Over 200 tourism businesses shut down in Ashanti Region
- Violations include poor hygiene, unsafe structures, and expired licenses
- GTA taskforce targets hotels, guest houses, eateries, and more
A large-scale enforcement operation by the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) has led to the closure of more than 200 hospitality and tourism businesses in the Ashanti Region due to non-compliance with industry standards.
The crackdown revealed serious violations including unhygienic conditions, unsafe infrastructure, expired licenses, and various regulatory breaches. Affected facilities were located in areas such as Dichemso, Asafo, Ayeduase, Ayigya, and Santasi.
All non-compliant venues have been shut down, with clear warning notices posted at entrances, urging the public to avoid patronizing them. The GTA taskforce expects to complete the region-wide operation within a month.
Targeted businesses include hotels, guest houses, food and beverage spots, recreational centers, and travel agencies—many of which were found operating without the GTA’s knowledge or approval.
Some caretakers were unaware of the minimum standards required by law, while others fled upon sighting the enforcement team. Several had previously ignored official warnings and notices.
Closure notices cited breaches of Legislative Instruments L.I. 2238 and L.I. 2239, which govern hospitality and tourism operations in Ghana.
Frederick Adjei-Rudolph, Ashanti Regional Director of the GTA, expressed concern over the scale of violations and the public’s continued use of unsafe facilities.
“One of the most troubling findings is the number of substandard businesses operating in plain sight—and worse, that consumers continue to use these places despite poor service,” he said.
He emphasized that unlicensed operations pose serious risks, stating, “These illegal operators are the most dangerous. No assessments have been done, and we cannot guarantee safety or security for patrons.”
Adjei-Rudolph reaffirmed the Authority’s commitment to raising industry standards and enforcing compliance.
“This is a legal mandate. We want every operator to meet the minimum standards and ensure a fair, regulated environment for everyone. Those who cut corners will not be allowed to continue,” he added.
