GTDC Set to Launch Night Tours in Ghana, Says CEO Kobby Mensah

The Ghana Tourism Development Company (GTDC) is gearing up to introduce an exciting new initiative—night tours—aimed at boosting the country’s tourism sector and aligning with broader economic goals, according to Chief Executive Officer Professor Kobby Mensah. The announcement, made during an interview on Joy FM’s Showbiz A-Z with host Kwame Dadzie, signals a fresh direction for Ghana’s tourism industry under Mensah’s leadership, which began in January 2025 following his appointment by President John Dramani Mahama.

Professor Mensah, a renowned marketing expert and Associate Professor at the University of Ghana Business School, revealed that the GTDC has developed approximately 12 new tourism products and services since he took the helm. Among these, the night tours—branded as “Accra by Night”—stand out as a flagship offering. “We are going to do night tours, which we believe ties into the NDC’s 24-hour Economy concept,” Mensah said, referencing the ruling National Democratic Congress’s policy to stimulate round-the-clock economic activity. The initiative aims to showcase Ghana’s vibrant nightlife, cultural heritage, and urban landscapes after dark, providing both locals and tourists with a novel way to experience the capital and beyond.

The night tours are part of a broader strategy to diversify Ghana’s tourism portfolio, which has traditionally leaned on daytime attractions like historical forts, nature reserves, and cultural festivals. Prof. Mensah emphasized that his team has been diligently building and costing these products, projecting their impact over the next five years. “I have focused my attention on building products and services and also costing them—that is, making projections for the next five years—and that is what my team has been doing,” he explained. In addition to “Accra by Night,” other proposed offerings include a Science Park tour and the Ghana Tourist Market Place, though details on these remain forthcoming.

Industry stakeholders have welcomed the announcement, viewing it as a strategic move to tap into an underserved segment of the tourism market. Ghana’s nightlife, with its bustling markets, live music scenes, and street food culture, has long been a draw for adventurous travelers, but organized night tours could elevate its appeal on a global scale. “This is a brilliant idea,” said tourism consultant Nana Osei, speaking to local media. “It not only extends the hours tourists can explore but also creates opportunities for local businesses—restaurants, artisans, and entertainers—to thrive after sunset.”

Professor Mensah’s vision for the night tours aligns with his broader mandate at GTDC, which includes attracting investment, promoting sustainable tourism, and enhancing the country’s cultural assets. Since taking office, he has outlined four key pillars for the agency: investment in tourism infrastructure, human capital development, preservation of cultural heritage, and technological innovation. The night tours are expected to leverage digital tools—such as online booking platforms and interactive guides—to ensure a seamless experience for visitors, a nod to Prof. Mensah’s emphasis on integrating technology into tourism frameworks.

The initiative also dovetails with President Mahama’s “Black Star Experience” vision, which seeks to position Ghana as a cultural and historical hub for Africa and its diaspora. By spotlighting Accra’s nocturnal charm—think illuminated landmarks like the Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum, bustling hubs like Osu Night Market, or the rhythmic beats of Hiplife and Highlife at local venues—the night tours could offer an immersive experience that celebrates Ghana’s past and present.

While specific launch dates and routes for “Accra by Night” have yet to be announced, Prof. Mensah hinted that preparations are well underway. The GTDC is collaborating with the Ghana Tourism Authority and private sector partners to finalize logistics, including safety measures, transportation, and trained guides. Given Accra’s reputation for relative safety compared to other African capitals, the tours are poised to attract both international visitors and domestic explorers eager to see their city in a new light.

Prof. Mensah’s track record lends credibility to the project. Known for his work on the Destination Legon Tourism Marketing Exhibition—a university-led initiative that bridges academia and industry—he brings a data-driven, creative approach to tourism development. His appointment in January 2025 was hailed as a game-changer for GTDC, an agency tasked with mobilizing resources and fostering partnerships to grow Ghana’s tourism sector.