The General Manager of Platinum Blue Island Resort, Mr. Eugene Vidzro, has called on government to introduce targeted tax incentives to attract more private investment into Ghana’s burgeoning ecotourism sector, particularly around the Lake Volta basin in the Eastern Region.
Mr. Vidzro said strategic policy interventions such as tax waivers could significantly enhance the growth of ecotourism and support sustainable livelihoods in the Atimpoku–Akosombo enclave.
“Tax waivers could sustainably supercharge Ghana’s ecotourism sector, especially along Lake Volta which is the largest man-made lake in Africa, by creating jobs, providing alternative livelihoods and increasing tourism’s contribution to GDP,” he said.
He recommended a set of tax reliefs, including VAT reductions, import duty exemptions on tourism-related transport equipment such as boats and yachts, and corporate tax holidays for companies investing in sustainable tourism infrastructure and eco-friendly services.
“Governments have long used tax incentives to stimulate growth in targeted sectors. Tourism, especially ecotourism deserves the same attention due to its vast economic and environmental potential,” he stressed.
Mr. Vidzro noted that the Lake Volta basin holds vast potential to anchor Ghana’s tourism strategy through hospitality expansion and water-based recreational activities.
He cited canoeing, kayaking, boat cruises and riverside sports as examples of attractions that can be scaled up with adequate support.
He further pointed out that responsible tourism practices are already in place at several resorts in the area, including Platinum Blue Island Resort. These practices, he said, include waste management, solar-powered energy systems, water conservation, and green livelihood promotion, which align with Ghana’s sustainability goals and contribute to local employment.
Tourism remains a key pillar of Ghana’s economy. According to data from the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA), the sector generated a record US$4.8 billion in 2024, making it the fourth-largest contributor to national GDP. International tourist arrivals rose by 12% from 2023, with domestic tourism also posting significant gains.
The Akosombo–Atimpoku area in the Asuogyaman District has emerged as a popular destination for both local and international tourists. It is home to high-profile sites such as the Akosombo Dam, Adomi Bridge, Bridge View Resort, The Peninsula, Royal Senchi Hotel, and Afrikiko River Front Resort.
Despite this progress, Mr. Vidzro expressed concern that Ghana’s ecotourism potential remains largely underdeveloped. GTA statistics presented in 2023 indicate that the country has 20 national parks and reserves, over 220 species of mammals, 721 bird species, and more than 540 kilometres of coastline. Yet many of these locations suffer from poor infrastructure and limited access.
He, therefore, urged the Ministry of Tourism and the GTA to prioritise investment in ecotourism infrastructure and to promote water sports and green tourism around Lake Volta.
“With focused attention and favourable investment conditions, Ghana can unlock world-class tourism destinations and become a major eco-travel hub in West Africa,” he added.
