Takoradi:The Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) has initiated consultations with stakeholders regarding a proposed National Animal Welfare Policy. This policy aims to regulate the treatment of animals in tourism facilities and promote responsible and sustainable tourism practices.
According to Ghana News Agency, the policy is expected to establish national standards for the humane treatment of animals in tourism and hospitality establishments. It seeks to safeguard wildlife, public health, and enhance Ghana's reputation as a responsible tourism destination.
The engagement in Takoradi is part of a series of nationwide zonal consultations designed to gather stakeholder input for developing a comprehensive animal welfare framework for the tourism industry. The proposed policy will apply to all enterprises and attractions licensed or registered by the GTA, covering animals in tourism facilities, wildlife interactions, working animals, and the sourcing of animal products.
Mr. Alexander Kwame Nketia, Director of Product Development and Investment at the GTA, highlighted the necessity of the policy due to concerns about animal treatment at some tourism establishments. He mentioned reports of animal cruelty, such as monkeys being restrained with chains causing harm, underscoring the need for clear regulatory guidelines.
Research referenced by Mr. Nketia indicated that 71 percent of respondents in major cities and hotels were willing to support tourism facilities that treated animals humanely. He emphasized that responsible animal welfare practices would strengthen the tourism industry's Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) commitments, enhancing its competitiveness in the global market.
The draft policy requires tourism establishments to develop and annually review institutional animal welfare and responsible sourcing policies. They must appoint Animal Welfare Officers, provide veterinary oversight, maintain valid permits, and ensure appropriate care for animals.
Dr. Emmanuel Nyamekye from the Animal Welfare League noted that the treatment of animals is a critical indicator of a country's commitment to responsible tourism, stressing the shared responsibility across tourism and hospitality operations.
The proposed policy is built on existing legislation, including the Tourism Act, Wildlife Resources Management Act, Public Health Act, and international conventions like CITES. The GTA is developing the policy in collaboration with the Animal Welfare League and World Animal Protection to integrate animal welfare into Ghana's sustainable tourism efforts. The consultations are designed to allow industry players and stakeholders to contribute to the framework before its final implementation.
Source Ghana News Agency