Minister for Transport, Kwaku Ofori Asiamah, has revealed the significant boost to domestic tourism with the arrival of a passenger cruise vessel at the Elmina Fishing Harbour in the Central Region.
Speaking on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen programme Thursday, he said the harbour, originally intended for fishermen, now serves a dual purpose as a fishing port and a cruise destination.
He noted that the recent docking of the passenger vessel, carrying 115 tourists from various parts of the world, marks a milestone for Elmina.
Among the vessel’s 106 passengers were mostly tourists, accompanied by 9 crew members.
Mr. Asiamah shared how a trader in Elmina was willing to offer her daughter’s hand in marriage as a thank you gift for the positive impact the harbor’s development has had on the local economy.
The trader recounted a surge in sales since the harbour began welcoming cruise ships, attributing this newfound prosperity to increased foot traffic from tourists and visitors.
“During a recent visit to Kumasi, I received a call from a woman in Elmina who expressed her appreciation for the government’s efforts in transforming the harbour. She offered her daughter in marriage to me but I told her I was already married. I think this really highlights the community’s admiration for the positive changes brought about by the harbor’s expansion” he said.
To him, the Elmina Fishing Harbour is not only a vital resource for fishermen but also a catalyst for economic growth and tourism in the region.
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