Ghana’s Tourism Authority has set an ambitious goal of hosting 200 paragliding flights during this year’s Kwahu Easter festival, up from 138 in 2024, as part of efforts to boost tourism revenue and showcase the Eastern Region’s scenic Odweanoma Mountain.
The annual event, now in its 20th edition, has drawn crowds eager to experience tandem paragliding, with organizers noting a marked increase in women participants overcoming fears to join the aerial adventure.
“I was the first woman to fly today—I came, saw, and conquered. I encourage others to enjoy this breathtaking experience,” said Abigail Ashley, one of several first-time female participants. Another attendee described the activity as “an experience to live with for a lifetime,” reflecting growing enthusiasm for the festival’s marquee attraction.
Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) CEO Maame Efua Houadjeto highlighted the festival’s expanding appeal, citing a 49% surge in attendance last year to over 7,000 visitors. She expressed confidence in achieving this year’s paragliding target, linking it to broader strategies to position Kwahu as a year-round tourism hub. However, a mid-afternoon rainstorm on the first day limited flights to 28, underscoring the challenges of weather-dependent events.
Officials emphasized tourism’s role in economic recovery and job creation, particularly for marginalized groups. Deputy Tourism Minister Yussif Issaka Jajah urged the Kwahu South Municipal Assembly to prioritize public-private partnerships, aligning with the government’s “Reset Ghana” agenda to leverage tourism for poverty reduction. Eastern Regional Minister Rita Adjei Awatey echoed this sentiment, stating the festival “showcases the resilience of Kwahu’s people” while supporting local businesses and cultural preservation.
The push to expand paragliding aligns with Ghana’s aim to diversify its tourism offerings beyond traditional attractions. Yet the sector faces hurdles, including infrastructure gaps and climate vulnerabilities, as seen in the storm’s disruption. While the GTA’s tech-enhanced marketing campaigns and partnerships have driven growth, stakeholders acknowledge that sustained success hinges on addressing systemic challenges from improving access roads to mitigating seasonal risks.
As the festival continues, its blend of adventure, culture, and community engagement offers a microcosm of Ghana’s tourism potential. Yet the path to transforming Kwahu into a global destination remains fraught with the delicate balance of ambition and practicality, a reality as clear as the mountain vistas drawing visitors skyward.
