The Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL) has announced that it will no longer tolerate cultural performances within its premises to welcome people without prior authorization from management.
In a statement posted on its official social media platforms on Monday, February 10, 2026, the company warned that no one will be allowed to engage in cultural displays without its approval, directing individuals and groups intent on welcoming loved ones with cultural displays to contact its Commercial Services Department to obtain prerequisite approval and authorization.
According to GACL, traditional displays such as drumming, dancing, singing, chanting, and ululations will no longer be permitted at airport terminals unless prior approval has been granted by management. Without this authorization, performers and their instruments will not be allowed access to the airport premises.
The statement instructed prospective organizers of cultural welcomes to contact the Commercial Services Department of GACL on 0302 550612 Extension 6147 for guidance on obtaining the necessary approvals. Individuals or groups intending to organize a cultural display at the airport to welcome a loved one are required to obtain prior approval and authorization before being allowed onto the premises.
GACL noted that the directive has become necessary due to the increasing number of informal cultural welcomes that have been taking place at arrival areas, which often disrupt airport operations and passenger movement. The company emphasized that while it appreciates Ghana’s hospitable culture, the growing frequency of performances requires some regulation to maintain order and efficiency.
The directive urged individuals or groups who wish to organize approved cultural welcomes to contact the Commercial Services Department ahead of time to go through the necessary procedures. GACL similarly urged the public to cooperate fully with airport authorities to help maintain discipline and professionalism at Ghana’s international airports.
It is not uncommon to witness several displays including drumming, dancing, singing, and ululations to welcome people at Ghana’s airports. This has become an enduring feature of Ghana’s hospitable nature, with families and communities often organizing elaborate cultural performances to celebrate the arrival of dignitaries, loved ones returning from abroad, or individuals achieving notable milestones.
The announcement comes just one day after GACL launched the Aviation Security Culture Week on Sunday, February 9, 2026, an initiative backed by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) designed to embed security awareness into daily processes, procedures, and practices at all six airports and their environs.
Speaking at the Aviation Security Culture Week launch, Managing Director of GACL, Yvonne Nana Afriyie Opare, stated that the vision of the company is to position Ghana as the preferred aviation hub and the leading airport business destination in West Africa. She emphasized that achieving this goal depends on teamwork, dedication, and the active participation of staff and partners across all airports.
Minister of Transport Joseph Nikpe stressed at the event that all stakeholders must work together to fortify Ghana’s aviation system and ensure that security operations are robust, effective, and aligned with international standards. The Aviation Security Culture Week marks a significant milestone in Ghana’s aviation industry as the first initiative of its kind in the country.
The new policy on cultural performances appears to be part of broader efforts by GACL to strengthen operational efficiency and security protocols across its facilities. The company manages six airports and various airstrips across Ghana, including Kotoka International Airport in Accra, Kumasi Airport, Tamale Airport, Sunyani Airport, Ho Airport, and WA Airstrip.
GACL was established in January 2006 as a result of the decoupling of the existing Ghana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) in line with modern trends in the aviation industry. The company commenced business on January 1, 2007, with specific responsibility for planning, developing, managing, and maintaining all airports and aerodromes in Ghana.
The directive is expected to affect families, cultural groups, churches, social organizations, and communities that have traditionally used cultural performances as a means of welcoming travelers at Ghana’s airports. While the performances will still be permitted with prior approval, organizers must now plan ahead and coordinate with airport management.
Industry observers note that the policy balances the need to maintain Ghana’s reputation for hospitality with operational requirements for smooth airport functioning. The requirement for advance notification allows GACL to schedule performances in ways that minimize disruption to other passengers and airport operations.
GACL serves as an implementing agency under the Ministry of Aviation and is responsible for ensuring that Ghana’s airports meet international standards for safety, security, and operational efficiency. The company has been recognized for excellence, with Kotoka International Airport rated for three consecutive years as the best airport in its size and region in Africa.
The public has been advised to contact the Commercial Services Department well in advance of any planned cultural welcome to allow adequate time for processing approval requests and making necessary arrangements. GACL has assured the public that the policy is intended to enhance airport operations rather than discourage Ghana’s vibrant cultural expressions.
