19/10/2025
Hotels Association Bids Emotional Farewell to Outgoing GTA Regional Director, Mr. Wisdom Ahadzi
The atmosphere at the Comme Ci Comme Ca Hotel in Bolgatanga was filled with emotions, laughter, and heartfelt tributes as members of the Hotels Association, Upper East Chapter, gathered to bid farewell to Mr. Wisdom Ahadzi, the outgoing Regional Director of the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA).
The event brought together hoteliers, tourism stakeholders, and industry players who celebrated Mr. Ahadzi for his dedication, humility, and passion for promoting tourism in the Upper East Region.
In his opening remarks, the Chairman of the Association, Mr. Louis Tinda, commended Mr. Ahadzi for his exemplary leadership and commitment during his tenure. “He came in at a very difficult time when the region was facing tribal tensions and other challenges,” Mr. Tinda noted. “But he managed to bring us together, unite the industry, and give us hope.” He urged the outgoing Director to continue promoting the Upper East Region wherever he goes, describing the area as rich in culture and full of untapped tourism potential.
The Association’s General Secretary also praised Mr. Ahadzi’s leadership style, describing him as approachable and supportive. “Mr. Ahadzi never saw himself as a boss,” she said. “He was always ready to advise and genuinely interested in the growth of our businesses.” She lauded his efforts in strengthening collaboration between the GTA and hospitality operators across the region.
Adding a touch of humor and emotion, Madam Mary Ayaga, proprietor of Mayaga Hotel in Navrongo, recalled her first impression of Mr. Ahadzi. “When I first met him, I said to myself, who is this small boy, and what can he do? But before God and man, he proved me wrong,” she said to applause. She commended his dedication to inspections and his role in advancing tourism activities such as PANAFEST and Emancipation Day celebrations in the region. “He changed my perception completely,” she added, publicly seeking forgiveness for ever doubting him.
Madam Ellen Ganda, National General Secretary of the Ghana Hotels Association, also commended Mr. Ahadzi for broadening the industry’s understanding of the link between hospitality and tourism. “He helped us realize that the two are inseparable,” she said.
Veteran educationist and respected member of the Association, Mr. Robert Ajene, questioned the decision to transfer such a committed leader. “Why would the GTA move such a capable and hardworking man in less than three years?” he asked. “Even in his absence, his works will continue to speak for him.”
As a gesture of appreciation, the Association presented Mr. Ahadzi with a beautifully woven smock and other symbolic gifts to mark his service and contribution to the region’s tourism sector.
In his remarks, Mr. Ahadzi expressed deep gratitude to the Association and his staff for their cooperation and support. “If I ever wronged anyone in the line of duty, please forgive me,” he said. “It has been an honor to serve, and I am proud of what we achieved together for tourism in the Upper East Region.”
He extended his appreciation for the send-off gathering and the thoughtful gifts. “The smock is a treasured keepsake, symbolizing the rich cultural heritage of the Upper East Region,” he said. “Please extend my appreciation to everyone involved in organizing the event. I look forward to continued collaboration and mutual support. Together, we can go far in the tourism industry for the benefit of all.”
The farewell ceremony ended on a warm note, with members sharing fond memories and reaffirming their commitment to advancing tourism development in the region.
