The 20th edition of Ghana’s iconic Kwahu Easter Paragliding Festival was officially launched on Friday with a vibrant opening ceremony at the Odweanoma Paragliding Site in the Kwahu South Municipality, reaffirming the nation’s commitment to blending adventure tourism with cultural preservation and local economic growth.
The festival, first introduced in 2005, has evolved into one of the flagship events of Ghana’s tourism calendar.
Spearheaded by the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) under the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, the annual event attracts both local thrill-seekers and international adventurers, contributing significantly to the socio-economic vibrancy of the Eastern Region.
At the launch ceremony, Deputy Minister for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Yussif Issaka Jajah—representing the Minister, Abla Dzifa Gomashie—delivered a message of encouragement and vision.
“This festival is not just about paragliding,” he said. “It is a celebration of our landscapes, our heritage, and our identity. These mountains and forests are not just scenic views; they are living testimonies of our culture and a vehicle for development.”
Yussif Jajah emphasized the government’s deliberate policy direction to expand the nation’s tourism portfolio through initiatives like the paragliding festival, which falls under the broader push to promote sports and recreational tourism.
According to him, leveraging the natural and cultural resources of regions like Kwahu is a strategic pathway to boosting visitor numbers, generating income, and creating job opportunities for local populations.
He also charged the Kwahu South Municipal Assembly to adopt a development agenda that places tourism at its center.
“With strong public-private collaboration and stakeholder engagement, tourism can be a powerful tool for poverty alleviation—especially for the youth and women,” he said.
The Eastern Regional Minister, Rita Akosua Adjei Awatey, echoed the Deputy Minister’s sentiments, stressing the festival’s role in cultural preservation and local economic empowerment.
“This event strengthens our identity and brings direct benefits to our people through trade, employment, and services. It is also a vital part of Ghana’s growing reputation in the global tourism space.”
Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Tourism Authority, Maame Efua Houadjeto, noted improvements made to the festival infrastructure and programming this year.
She expressed confidence in higher participation and international visibility, aligning the event with the GTA’s “Black Star Experience” brand, which aims to position Ghana as West Africa’s top destination for adventure and cultural tourism.
“This festival is not just an event; it’s an experience,” she said. “And we believe the enhancements we’ve made will further elevate Ghana’s appeal to tourists seeking unique and meaningful travel experiences.”
Now in its second decade, the Kwahu Easter Paragliding Festival continues to soar—literally and symbolically—serving as a dynamic platform for adventure, cultural exchange, and economic transformation.
With its focus on sustainable development, the event reflects Ghana’s broader tourism strategy to combine heritage with opportunity, ensuring communities benefit directly from the country’s natural and cultural wealth.
–BY Daniel Bampoe
