Ghana has marked a significant milestone in Pan-African integration with the launch of a new direct Air Tanzania route connecting Accra to Tanzania, a move expected to boost tourism, trade and cultural exchange between West and East Africa.
The Minister for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Dzifa Gomashie, joined the Minister for Transport, Joseph Bukari Nikpe and other dignitaries to officially welcome the airline’s inaugural flight into Ghana.
The aircraft was received with a symbolic water cannon salute upon arrival, underscoring the importance of the new partnership.
Speaking at the event, the Minister emphasized that connectivity, workforce capacity and infrastructure development are critical pillars for the growth of Ghana’s tourism, culture and creative arts sector.
“If there are three things we need in the tourism, culture and creative arts sector, they are cheaper, reliable and efficient transportation, a skilled workforce, and strong infrastructure,” she stated.
The new Air Tanzania service will operate three times weekly on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, significantly reducing travel time between the two countries.
According to the Tourism Minister, improved air connectivity is vital for sustainable economic growth and will strengthen tourism, business and cultural relations between Ghana and Tanzania.
She used the occasion to invite East Africans to explore Ghana’s rich heritage sites and renowned hospitality, while also encouraging Ghanaians to visit Tanzania’s iconic attractions, including Mount Kilimanjaro, the Serengeti and Zanzibar.
She further urged Air Tanzania to actively promote African cuisine, music and textiles onboard its flights and pledged her Ministry’s readiness to partner with the airline to ensure Ghana’s cultural identity is reflected in passengers’ travel experience.
Reflecting on the broader historical significance of the development, the Minister noted that the collaboration would have resonated deeply with Africa’s founding visionaries.
“Dr. Kwame Nkrumah and President Julius Nyerere must be smiling,” she remarked.
The launch of the route is being hailed as a practical step toward deepening African unity through enhanced mobility, cultural exchange and shared economic opportunity.
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