Interfaith Tourism World Club Launched to Promote Unity Through Travel
Accra – The Interfaith Tourism World (ITW) Club, aimed at fostering unity among diverse faiths through travel, has been launched in Accra. This religious tourism club, comprising over 250 members, focuses on exploring the rich diversity of tourist sites in Ghana and beyond.
According to Ghana News Agency, President of the ITW Club, the initiative recognizes the significant role of religious heritage in reflecting the identity of a territory and its monumental value. He noted that religious tourism, encompassing pilgrimages, sacred site visits, and travel for worship or mission, is a vital niche within cultural tourism.
Boateng elaborated on the club’s mission, which extends beyond mere sightseeing. The club aims to shift perspectives and provide members with enriching experiences that allow them to see the world in a new light. He stressed that the club seeks to bridge the gap between different socioeconomic groups and foster unity among religious communities in Ghana.
Members of the ITW Club will enjoy a range of benefits, including travel, tour advantages, and social benefits. Boateng also mentioned plans for career guidance in tourism-related fields and recognition for members contributing positively to communities during exhibitions and fairs.
The club also plans to support its active members with financial aid and mutual support, including participation in literacy programs. Boateng announced a partnership with Adom Group of Companies and ANB Acrylic Limited to undertake a painting project for the Rising Star Orphanage home in Dodowa and make donations to selected individuals and orphanages as part of their social responsibility efforts.
Mr. Kofi Atta Kakra-Kusi, Deputy Head of Corporate Affairs at the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA), highlighted the significant contributions of tourism to the nation’s development. He expressed the GTA’s support for clubs like ITW in elevating the tourism industry and boosting the economy. Kusi emphasized the critical role of domestic tourism and expressed optimism about the club’s impact on attracting more tourists, especially from the diaspora.
Madam Alisa Osei-Asamoah, President of the Tour Operators Union Ghana (TOUGHA), praised the establishment of the ITW Club as a great initiative for promoting tourism. She assured that TOUGHA would collaborate with the ITW Club to advance the tourism industry, particularly in domestic tourism.
The event concluded with the introduction of the ITW Club’s executive members, including Ernest K. Boateng as President, Faustina Yakubu as Vice President, and other key officers.