GTA denies visa sale allegations over 2026 World Cup tourism plan

The Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) has actually rejected claims that it gathered cash from candidates in exchange for visas under its tourist promo program for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

In a declaration, the Authority stated it has actually born in mind of public commentary worrying visa application plans connected to the competition and looked for to clarify its function which of its CEO, Maame Efua Houadjeto.

According to the GTA, the 2026 World Cup was determined as a significant chance to promote Ghana’s tourist, culture, music, style, crafts and innovative markets to a global audience. The effort, it stated, existed to and authorized by the Board.

Individuals were to consist of cultural performers, artists, exhibitors, media professionals, tourist market agents, personnel of the Authority and heads of associated firms.

The GTA stated it engaged the United States Embassy and the Canadian High Commission just to look for assistance on visa application requirements and treatments for the individuals.

Its function, the Authority worried, was restricted to determining appropriate groups, assisting in institutional intros and offering assistance on the procedure.

“At no point did GTA have the authority to release visas, warranty visa approvals or identify the results of private applications. These choices rested solely with the particular diplomatic and migration authorities,” the declaration kept in mind.

On payments, the Authority discussed that it at first checked out private-sector sponsorship to support individuals, however the monetary requirements showed unwise. As an outcome, individuals were notified they would be accountable for their own visa charges, travel and lodging costs, and separately engaged travel representatives for plans.

“The Ghana Tourism Authority unquestionably rejects gathering cash from any candidate in return for visas or visa chances. I likewise unconditionally reject that I obtained, got, or licensed payments for the function of protecting visas,” CEO Maame Efua Houadjeto specified.

The Authority likewise clarified its addition of non-traditional media, keeping in mind that contemporary tourist promo extends beyond traditional reporters to blog writers, influencers, material developers, professional photographers and videographers.

“The expert significance of individuals need to be examined versus their desired functions and advertising obligations instead of solely versus standard journalism categories,” it stated.

The CEO included that her participation remained in discharge of her main tasks and in furtherance of the Authority’s required, rejecting any individual participation in visa sales.

The GTA stated it stays dedicated to openness, accountable administration and safeguarding public self-confidence while advancing Ghana’s tourist and innovative markets.

By Edem Mensah-Tsotorme