Even as thousands of tourists are expected to visit Ghana this December, the country’s food service industry may struggle to meet demand. The 2024 Tourism Report reveals that “none of the surveyed enterprises took orders online, and only 8% provided delivery services,” highlighting how limited digital services could impact visitors’ dining experiences.
The data show that average food prices in surveyed hospitality enterprises stood at GHC 21.00, while drinks averaged GHC 10.25, reflecting a moderate cost for international and local consumers. With December traditionally bringing higher visitor numbers and increased spending, demand for ready-to-eat meals and beverages is expected to rise. However, the lack of online ordering and limited delivery options could constrain how tourists and busy locals access meals, especially in areas outside main tourist hubs.
Rising concerns about digital fraud may influence this reliance on physical patronage. The Cyber Security Authority has cautioned that “top search results do not guarantee authenticity,” emphasizing that consumers must verify online business listings to avoid scams.
Recent law enforcement actions in Ghana illustrate this risk: individuals were arrested for creating fake food delivery platforms that impersonated popular restaurants, directing customers to make advance mobile money payments without ever delivering food. Such incidents have heightened caution among both consumers and restaurant owners, contributing to the slow adoption of online ordering and delivery services.
Despite these challenges, tourism festivities continue to attract visitors, with many expressing high levels of satisfaction. However, Emmanuel Frimpong, a Tourism Consultant, warns that “although a higher percentage of people show satisfaction with the festivities, this, if not well done, could reduce the satisfaction rate in the coming years,” underlining the importance of service quality, accessibility, and trust in sustaining long-term growth in the tourism and hospitality sectors.
For food businesses, this season presents both opportunity and caution. Physical dining is likely to remain the primary revenue driver, but the growth of verified digital platforms demonstrates that demand exists for convenient and reliable delivery options. Businesses that can safely integrate online ordering while protecting consumers from fraud may gain a competitive edge, especially in urban centers where tourists and residents increasingly seek convenience.
