The Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) has denied collecting money from applicants in exchange for visas for its tourism promotion activities at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
In a statement dated Friday, October 9, 2026, and signed by its Chief Executive Officer, Maame Efua Houadjeto, the Authority said it has taken note of recent public commentary and allegations concerning visa application arrangements linked to the World Cup promotion.
According to the GTA, as the statutory institution responsible for promoting Ghana as a tourism destination, it identified the 2026 FIFA World Cup as an opportunity to showcase Ghana’s tourism, culture, music, fashion, crafts and creative industries to an international audience.
The Authority said the initiative was presented to and approved by its Board and involved cultural troupes, musicians, exhibitors, media practitioners, tourism industry representatives, staff of the Authority and heads of related agencies.
The GTA said it engaged the United States Embassy and the Canadian High Commission to seek guidance on applicable visa requirements and procedures for the identified participants.
It clarified that its role was limited to identifying relevant participating groups, facilitating institutional introductions and providing guidance on the application process.
“At no point did GTA possess the authority to issue visas, guarantee visa approvals or determine the outcomes of individual applications. These decisions rested exclusively with the respective diplomatic and immigration authorities,” the statement said.
On payments and travel arrangements, the Authority said it initially explored private-sector sponsorship to support participating groups, but the substantial financial requirements made the arrangement impracticable.
Participants were therefore informed that they would be responsible for their own visa application fees, travel and accommodation expenses, and independently engaged travel agents to assist them.
“The Ghana Tourism Authority unequivocally denies collecting money from any applicant in return for visas or visa opportunities. I also categorically deny that I solicited, received, or authorized payments for the purpose of securing visas,” the CEO stated.
The Authority also addressed concerns over the selection of media participants, explaining that contemporary tourism promotion goes beyond conventional journalists employed by traditional media houses.
It said bloggers, social-media influencers, digital content creators, photographers, videographers and other communications professionals play recognized roles in destination marketing and international tourism promotion.
On her personal involvement, Ms Houadjeto said her role in the initiative was in discharge of her official responsibilities and in furtherance of the Authority’s tourism-promotion mandate.
“As the CEO of the GTA, I firmly deny any personal involvement in the sale of visas or the collection of money from applicants in exchange for visa opportunities,” she said.
The GTA said the circumstances surrounding the programme must be considered on the basis of verified facts and institutional records, adding that it remains committed to transparency, responsible administration and the national interest.
