As part of activities to mark the 2025 World Tourism Day, the people of Ketu South gathered at Agavedzi, a coastal community grappling with the effects of tidal waves, to plant coconut trees in a symbolic gesture that celebrates Culture, Heritage, and Sustainable Development.
The event, which provided 200 coconut seedlings for planting, also serves as a strategic intervention to promote environmental sustainability, economic empowerment, and tourism development within the coastal belt.
In her address, the Member of Parliament for Ketu South who doubles as the Minister of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts , Hon Abla Dzifa Gomashie emphasized the cultural and economic importance of the coconut tree to the coastal communities. “In this coastal community, we see the coconut as a cash crop and family wealth. Generations after generations benefit from it,” she said. Recounting a personal experience of purchasing land, the MP explained how she had to pay separately for the coconut trees, a reflection of their significant economic value. “Initially, I wanted to go to court… But that is what is done. It’s part of the culture. It’s part of the heritage,” she added.
Framing the tree planting exercise as “planting wealth in the community,” Abla Dzifa Gomashie connected the initiative to broader conversations around the blue economy, a development model that encompasses marine and coastal resources as drivers of economic growth.
“Our beautiful coastline from Aflao to Half Assini is a tourism product we have not fully capitalized on. World Tourism Day 2025 is our opportunity to educate our people about keeping our beaches clean. Charity begins at home hence the reason why we are starting here in Agavedzi,” she added.
Agavedzi was intentionally chosen as the location for the event, highlighting its vulnerability to climate change impacts, especially tidal waves. She reminded the gathering of the significant step taken under the leadership of H.E. President John Dramani Mahama, where the sword was cut in Agavedzi for the commencement of the second phase of the sea defence project.
The Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) of Ketu South, Mr Nicholas Worclachie, called on the community to rally behind the MP and Sector Minister to support efforts by the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts to boost tourism and development in the area. He emphasized that such initiatives are crucial to driving local economic growth and preserving the rich cultural heritage of the region.
The tree planting activity was attended by the Agency heads and selected staff, Directors, Deputy Directors and support staff from the Ministry.
The event marks a renewed commitment by Ketu South to align with global tourism goals while addressing local environmental and economic challenges.
Source: Delassie Mabel Awuku-PR Unit-MoTCCA
