Renowned media personality and tourism advocate, Gilbert Abeiku Aggrey Santana, popularly known as Abeiku Santana, has been appointed as the Acting Deputy Executive Director of the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) by President John Dramani Mahama. In this capacity, he will collaborate with the Executive Director, Maame Efua Houadjeto, to drive the government’s strategic initiatives aimed at expanding Ghana’s tourism sector.
Abeiku Santana, often referred to as “Mr. Tourism,” has spent over two decades shaping Ghana’s media landscape, specializing in radio and television broadcasting, public relations, marketing communications, tourism management, and hospitality. His extensive expertise and deep commitment to tourism development make him an ideal choice for this role.
As a certified tourism consultant, he has been instrumental in major national campaigns such as the “Year of Return” and “Beyond the Return,” which significantly enhanced Ghana’s global appeal as a leading tourism destination. His appointment aligns with the government’s vision to position tourism as a key driver of economic growth, job creation, and foreign investment.
Academic and Professional Credentials
Abeiku Santana’s academic background and professional qualifications further reinforce his capability to lead in this sector. He holds:
- Master’s Degree in Tourism Management – University of Cape Coast, Ghana
- Master’s Degree in Marketing Strategy – University of Ghana Business School, Accra, Ghana
- Chartered Media Practitioner (CMP) – Global Academy of Finance & Management (GAFM)
- Master Project Management (MPM) – Global Academy of Finance & Management (GAFM)
- Postgraduate Diploma in Public Administration – Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA)
- Associate in Litigation and Legal Studies – New York Paralegal School, USA
Beyond his executive role, Abeiku Santana is also a visiting lecturer at several prestigious institutions, including the African University College of Communications, Pentecost University College, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), and the University of Ghana.
About the Ghana Tourism Authority
Established in 2011 under the Tourism Act 817, the Ghana Tourism Authority succeeded the Ghana Tourist Board and serves as the country’s primary regulatory body for the tourism industry. It also functions as the nation’s Destination Management Organisation (DMO), tasked with marketing and promoting Ghana as a premier tourism hub both locally and internationally.
Industry stakeholders and entertainment figures have widely welcomed Abeiku Santana’s appointment, expressing confidence in his ability to bring fresh energy, innovation, and strategic direction to Ghana’s tourism sector. His leadership is expected to enhance partnerships, boost international recognition, and drive the sustainable growth of the industry.
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