Dzifa Gomashie announces US$4.5million South Korean support to restore Ghana’s historic forts and castles

Minister for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Abla Dzifa Gomashie, has announced that South Korea has agreed to support Ghana with US$4.5 million over five years to restore the country’s historic forts and castles, in a major boost to heritage preservation and tourism development.

Speaking in an interview, Dzifa Gomashie said the initiative was being pursued in collaboration with UNESCO and South Korea’s National Commission for UNESCO.

According to the Minister, the partnership will provide technical expertise and equipment to help protect Ghana’s historic sites, many of which are increasingly threatened by climate change and coastal erosion.

“Global warming and climate change have been merciless on our coastline,” Dzifa Gomashie said, underscoring the urgency of preserving the country’s cultural heritage.

She explained that the collaboration would help restore deteriorating forts and castles while improving their appeal to visitors.

Dzifa Gomashie noted that the sites remain important destinations for tourists, particularly members of the African diaspora seeking to reconnect with their ancestral roots and learn more about Ghana’s history.

She said the preservation initiative was also significant as Ghana strengthens its position on reparations and restitution under President John Dramani Mahama.

The Minister expressed optimism that the partnership would help safeguard the historic assets for future generations while enhancing Ghana’s tourism potential.

The initiative is expected to contribute to the long-term preservation of the country’s heritage sites and support efforts to attract more visitors to these important landmarks.