The Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) has officially unveiled the calendar for the 2026 December in GH initiative, a festive season programme that will run from December 1, 2026, to January 3, 2027. According to MyJoyOnline, the launch event took place at the Labadi Beach Hotel and gathered representatives from tourism, culture, and creative arts. The GTA reported that more than 150 events have been registered nationwide for the period, with the capital city of Accra accounting for over 100 of these planned activities.
Abla Dzifa Gomashie, the minister responsible for tourism and creative arts, addressed the attendees. MyJoyOnline reported that she urged stakeholders to prioritize showcasing Ghana’s heritage and hospitality. The minister acknowledged the popularity of the term “Detty December” among younger demographics but suggested that emphasis should shift toward encouraging broader participation in the “Experience Ghana” campaign. The 2026 edition operates under the theme “Ghana to the World,” aiming to promote the country’s cultural identity and creative industries to international audiences.
Gomashie described the festive period as a homecoming for Ghanaians abroad and the African diaspora. She stressed that the initiative’s success should be measured by the economic opportunities generated for local communities, not just visitor numbers. The minister called for benefits to reach a wide range of professionals, including tour operators, hoteliers, musicians, and artisans. She also urged businesses to prioritize service excellence, visitor safety, and reasonable pricing to maintain Ghana’s reputation as a welcoming destination.
In a significant announcement, the minister revealed that Ghana is partnering with the African Union Development Agency (AUDA-NEPAD) to host the first-ever African Festival of Arts, Culture and Creatives (AFESTACC). MyJoyOnline noted that this event is scheduled for December 9 to 12, 2026, and aims to unite African and diaspora stakeholders to explore creative economy investments.
Maame Efua Houadjeto, the GTA’s chief executive, framed the month as a chance for guests to engage with local music, festivals, and heritage. She urged event organizers to provide prominent roles and fair compensation to Ghanaian performers and creatives. Houadjeto also encouraged businesses to work closely with local suppliers to ensure that tourism spending supports local livelihoods. The GTA encouraged visitors to look beyond Accra, emphasizing the need to boost tourism across all 16 regions of the country.
