Deputy Minister backs development of Halal compliant tourism in Ghana
Mr Yussif Issaka Jajah, the Deputy Minister of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, said he supports the develop a Halal-compliant tourism and hospitality sector in Ghana to attract more tourists, especially from the Islamic community.
Halal tourism refers to the provision of tourism services and facilities that are in accordance with Islamic principles.
This includes ensuring that food and beverages are prepared according to Islamic dietary laws.
Mr Jajah said those standards would attract a wide range of visitors, including non-Muslims, due to their high quality and moral appeal.
He made this statement when a delegation from the Halal Development Corporation (HDC) of Malaysia paid a courtesy call on him, in Accra.
The visit aims to explore potential collaboration towards developing a halal ecosystem in Ghana.
He said: “You will get traffic when you start Halal-compliant hotels. Even Christians will participate. It is not just a religious issue, it is a business opportunity.”
He encouraged the Bureau of Halal Certification Ghana (BHCG) to begin engaging hoteliers and food providers who may be willing to adopt those standards, while the formal certification structures are being finalised.
“Start building some few Halal-compliant hotels. Once that infrastructure is in place, people will come,” he added.
The discussions also focused on leveraging Ghana’s tourism and cultural assets to attract travelers, promote hospitality services, and establish a regulatory framework to support certification and enhance international recognition.
This initiative is envisioned to position Ghana as a preferred Halal tourism destination in the region.
Mr Fann Mur Ashira of HDC Ghana said the Bureau of Halal Certification Ghana, established in 2023, was leading efforts to formalise those standards in the country with support from the Office of the President and other government agencies.
Mr Paja Api Amiepul, speaking on behalf of the Malaysian High Commissioner, emphasized Malaysia’s global leadership in halal tourism and its readiness to support Ghana through training, certification frameworks, and investment attraction.
He noted that Ghana’s vibrant culture, history, and hospitality made it a strong candidate to become a Muslim-friendly travel destination.
Mr. Samudeen Yusif of BHCG added that the initiative went beyond food to include pharmaceuticals, wellness, cosmetics, and media.
He noted that there was the need for public education and government support to guide businesses on Halal compliance.
The meeting concluded with both countries committing to deepen collaboration and roll out Ghana’s Halal certification and Tourism programme in phases, starting with the hospitality and food service sectors.
Source: GNA