According to Andrew Egyapa Mercer, Minister-designate of the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Ghana’s domestic tourism may be impacted by the “Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill” being signed into law.
His opinion is in line with a number of worries about how the measure may impact Ghana’s economy; the Finance Minister has estimated a $3.8 billion possible loss.
Mr. Mercer was questioned today during the vetting process for newly appointed ministers regarding the possible effect that the approval of the LGBTQ bill will have on tourism in Ghana.
He clarified that Ghana’s culture was essential and that cultural experiences ought to be available to everyone, regardless of individual objections to particular lifestyles.
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Mercer emphasized the significance of lawfully marketing Ghana, particularly in the event that President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo signs the anti-LGBTQ bill.
The Minister-designate noted that talks on the matter were still underway, but underlined that the measure would undoubtedly have an impact no matter what happened.
“Our culture is our culture. And if people want to experience it, it really shouldn’t matter if we oppose to a certain lifestyle. But it all comes down to how you promote Ghana and position ourselves within the law. That is, if the President assent to the anti-LGBTQ bill.
“I know it is the most topical subject matter now, and I was having conversations with my friends about this same question. But I have still not figured out an answer but what I can say is that it would definitely have an impact, one way or the other”, he stated.
He pointed out that although people who cherish Ghana’s cultural legacy might find Ghana appealing, those who advocate for the universal acceptance of particular lifestyles might not.
Therefore, he thinks the secret is in Ghana’s capacity to promote and display its distinctive tourism to the outside world, setting the nation apart as a desirable travel destination.
“Some people may not find Ghana to be an appealing destination if they think such lifestyle should be permitted elsewhere. Some individuals who respect our culture might find Ghana to be appealing. Therefore, it all boils down to how you promote Ghana and what we have to offer the outside world; with our listing, we hope to persuade travelers to choose our nation over others,” he continued.
