As part of a comprehensive language training program aimed at improving Ghana’s overall tourism experience for international visitors, the government has initiated the training of approximately 2,000 hospitality staff in the French language.
The training, which is part of government’s Ghana Cares Economic Transformation programme, seeks to ensure effective communication and provide exceptional, personalized services to Francophone guests, solidifying Ghana’s commitment to fostering an inclusive and culturally sensitive tourism industry.
Addressing journalists yesterday in Accra, the Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Dr. Ibrahim Mohammed Awal, said the majority of tourists frequenting Ghana’s tourist sites were from French-speaking nations.
Consequently, the language training programme has been strategically designed to empower frontline personnel across the tourism sector with bilingual proficiency to enable them engage effectively and cater to the specific requirements of visitors, particularly those hailing from French-speaking countries.
He noted that it is imperative for the country to expand to francophone countries in order to tap into West Africa’s gross domestic product (GDP) of about $880 billion. Ghana is surrounded by about nine francophone countries in West Africa.
“For us in tourism, the most important thing to us is repeat tourism. If a tourist visits Ghana this year, next year, he brings his family and friends along and stays longer and spends more money that can support our economy,” he said.
“We realized that we could get more tourists if we open ourselves in terms of French language and we are equipping our frontline staff, be it drivers, front desk attendants, and tour guards so that once you become bilingual in English and French, we are able to attract tourists,” the Minister added.
Design
According to him, the programme has been meticulously planned and organized into several phases.
He explained that in the inaugural phase, which commenced this month and will continue until December 2023, a select group of 100 staff members from upmarket hotels in Accra are participating.
“It serves as a pilot programme designed to ensure comprehensive training and assessment before the initiative is expanded on a larger scale,” he said.
Dr. Awal said government’s vision extends beyond this initial phase, stressing that the ultimate objective is to provide training to a total of 2,000 hospitality staff members in line with government’s broader objective of making Ghana a more appealing destination for a diverse array of tourists.
He said such investments in skill development are crucial for the long-term growth and success of the tourism sector assuring Ghanaians of government’s unwavering dedication to enhancing service quality and improving tourist centers in the country.
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