The Western Regional Directorate of the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) has awarded deserving tourism industry practitioners and stakeholders who have demonstrated excellence in their operations in the region. 25 competitive and three honorary awards were given to players who showed commitment towards the development and growth of the tourism industry in the region and country in general. The 2024 edition of the awards ceremony, held at Essipong in the Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolis, was on the theme: 'Celebrating innovation and recognising excellence in Ghana's tourism sector.' Mr Henry Yeleduor, the Western Regional GTA Director, speaking at the opening of the awards ceremony, said the occasion was to celebrate innovation, and recognise the best service providers and their dedication to product excellence within the tourism industry. He stated that one of the biggest fundamental elements of excellence was respect and care for customers, which was an important factor for sustainable development and success i n businesses. He, thus, encouraged tourism practitioners to remain focused on increased quality of services and innovation, while charting new paths to sustain their businesses. 'I also wish to challenge you to become ambassadors of service excellence in your areas of operation through skills transfer and mentoring other similar establishments, especially the emerging businesses,' the Western Region GTA Director added. Mr Yeleduor congratulated the award winners, saying, 'It is our desire to use this initiative to promote excellence, innovation, and quality among players to be able to compete on the international market.' Mr Kwabena Okyere Darko-Mensah, the Western Regional Minister, noted that tourism provided a great opportunity for sustainable development, and that it was imperative for stakeholders to recognise its immense potential as a connecting force for positive change, and a catalyst for environmental stewardship. He said: 'By understanding and tailoring experiences, embracing eco-tourism, and investing in sustainable tourism practices, we can transform the tourism sector into a powerful tool for conserving our planet and enhancing human well-being.' Mr Charles Obeng, Director of Standards and Quality Assurance, GTA, said the theme for the event was a call to action and reminder that the growth of the tourism industry and success depended on players' ability to innovate, and adapt to emerging technological advancements, while striving for excellence. He said tourism was a multi-stakeholder enterprise that required the full commitments of all, 'so let us work together to promote tourism development and create opportunities for jobs and economic growth for the youth.' The event was attended by traditional and religious authorities, representatives of corporate institutions, stakeholders in the tourism sector, and friends and families of awardees among others. Source: Ghana News Agency