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The people of Ketu South in the Volta Region marked this year’s World Tourism Day with a symbolic coconut tree planting exercise at Agavedzi, underscoring the links between culture, heritage and sustainability.
Led by the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts and Member of Parliament for Ketu South, Abla Dzifa Gomashie, the community planted 200 coconut trees to highlight both the cultural and economic significance of the tree to coastal communities.
Reflecting on her own experience, Madam Gomashie recalled being asked to pay separately for coconut trees when purchasing land to build her house in Ketu South.
“The coconut tree is family wealth,” she said, stressing that its value extends beyond its fruit to its role as a heritage symbol and a source of livelihood.
She described the planting exercise as a symbolic investment in community wealth, linking it to the concept of the blue economy and the untapped tourism potential along Ghana’s coastline.
Agavedzi, which has suffered the devastating impact of tidal waves, was deliberately chosen as the site for the activity to draw attention to climate change and to encourage local action. The initiative also showcased the potential for tourism and renewal in restored coastal communities.
“We must protect our coast and grow our heritage,” Madam Gomashie urged, as the day’s activities transitioned into a colourful durbar at Agbozume, where participants celebrated in traditional Kete attire.
Among those present were the Ketu South Municipal Chief Executive, Nicholas Kwabla Worclachie, and the Assembly Member for the Salakope and Amutsinu area, Eben Asah.
The Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA), Maame Efua Houadjeto, and the GTA Volta Regional Director, Johnny Arthur-Quarm, also took turns to plant some of the coconut seedlings.
Also in attendance were the Director of Tourism at the Ministry, Dr Geoferry Tamakloe, Bright Dzila, and Rosemary Avorgbedor.
World Tourism Day 2025 was held on Saturday, September 27, 2025, under the theme “Tourism and Sustainable Transformation.”
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