The Year of Return initiative was launched by the government of Ghana in 2019 to commemorate the 400th anniversary of the first Africans being taken captive and sold into slavery. This initiative aimed to encourage Africans in the diaspora to visit Ghana and reconnect with their roots. It has been hailed as a success, significantly boosting Ghana's tourism sector and earning the country global recognition.

The Year of Return brought significant economic benefits. In 2020, the then Minister of Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Barbara Oteng Gyasi, reported to Parliament that Ghana earned $3.3 billion from the initiative. This impressive revenue stemmed from increased tourism, which benefited sectors like transport, hospitality, and business. The influx of visitors also created numerous opportunities for local entrepreneurs to cater to the growing demands.

While the initiative has been a boon for Ghana's economy and global reputation, many ordinary Ghanaians have felt excluded from its benefits. The challenges faced by citizens reveal a more nuanced picture of the Year of Return and its follow-up, Beyond the Return.

As the influx of tourists grows, the cost of living during peak seasons, especially in December, has skyrocketed. Prices for transportation services often double, and some businesses even start charging in dollars. This has made life increasingly difficult for the average Ghanaian who doesn’t own a business or benefit directly from tourism.

“Ghanaians have been priced out of their own country,” laments Okpoti, a concerned citizen. Timmah, a salaried worker, shares similar frustrations. “I always want to escape the capital and find a village to hide in December, but I have work to go to. The prices of everything are just too much. Who regulates these things?” she questions.

Another troubling consequence has been the depreciation of Ghana's currency, the cedi. Instead of capitalizing on the influx of foreign visitors to boost the cedi's value, many businesses have prioritized charging in dollars. This practice undermines the local economy and exacerbates inflation, leaving ordinary Ghanaians struggling to cope with rising costs.

Traffic congestion during peak tourist seasons has become another significant issue. Ghana’s road networks have not improved to accommodate the growing number of visitors. Instead, the pressure on the limited good roads worsens traffic jams, particularly in Accra.

“As if the prices are not bad enough, the traffic makes everything worse,” Timmah adds. Despite the initiative's success, the lack of infrastructure development has left many citizens frustrated.

The Year of Return and subsequent Beyond the Return campaigns have been remarkable in drawing international attention and revenue to Ghana. However, they have also highlighted systemic issues that need urgent attention.

1. Price Regulation: Authorities must regulate prices to ensure that tourism benefits do not come at the expense of local affordability.

2. Local Currency Prioritization: Encouraging the use of the cedi in transactions can help stabilize and strengthen the economy.

3. Infrastructure Development: Investment in road networks and public transportation is essential to handle the growing influx of tourists while easing pressure on citizens.

The Year of Return has undoubtedly positioned Ghana as a global holiday destination. But as Okpoti wisely notes, “Ghana isn’t just a holiday destination. It’s a country that functions all year round.”

For the initiative to be truly successful, it must be inclusive, ensuring that the ordinary Ghanaian can also enjoy December in their homeland. Policies that prioritize citizens' well-being, alongside economic gains, will ensure that tourism continues to thrive without alienating the very people it represents.