Serve tourists Ghanaian chicken, not imported ones - Coconut Grove Hotel CEO to hospitality industry

The CEO of Coconut Grove Regency Hotel, Mr. Ralph Ayitey, urges the hospitality industry to support Ghanaian products. He specifically emphasizes locally produced poultry.

Mr. Ayitey spoke at the launch of the Ghana Poultry Festival 2025 in Accra on April 15. He highlighted the potential of the Ghanaian poultry industry for economic growth.

He stressed serving guests local food instead of imported chicken. "Tourists travel to Ghana to experience our food," he said. He noted that his hotel has served local products for over 25 years.

"We believe serving local products has helped us succeed," Ayitey stated. His hotel offers local fruit juices, fresh fish, and Tilapia from Volta Lake. He encourages other hotels to support locally raised poultry.

Mr. Ayitey pointed out that importing poultry harms Ghana's economy. Over 600,000 imported chickens are consumed daily in the country. "This isn't just about chicken; it's about jobs and self-sufficiency," he explained.

He emphasized this year's Poultry Day Festival theme: "Investing in the Local Poultry Sector." This theme aims to create jobs and improve food security through national transformation.

Ayitey called on the government to partner with private sectors for support. He suggested tax incentives, affordable financing, and better cold chain infrastructure for local poultry.

His message is clear: promoting local products creates jobs and boosts economic growth. "When Ghana's poultry thrives, Ghana wins," he said.

Ghana consumes over 600,000 imported chickens daily while facing high unemployment rates. "Does that add up?" he asked rhetorically. It's not just about chicken; it's about building a self-sufficient nation.

Mr. Ayitey's call to action is straightforward: make Ghana chicken the preferred choice. "Let's say it loud: Ghana Chicken is Fresh, Healthy, Safe," he declared.

As National Treasurer of the Association of Ghana Industries (AGI), he believes promoting local poultry benefits both the economy and people.

The Ghana Poultry Day festival aims to promote locally produced poultry consumption and its benefits. It also raises awareness about employment opportunities in this sector.

The festival collaborates with various stakeholders like the Ministry of Food and Agriculture to promote local chicken consumption.

The fifth edition will take place at the State House forecourt on July 1, 2025.