GTA partners Airbnb to streamline short-term rental operations in Ghana

 

The Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) has unveiled a comprehensive registration framework for short-term rental accommodations, addressing the surge in listings on platforms like Airbnb. This initiative comes as local hosts, international investors, and visitors increasingly turn to short-term rentals, boosting Ghana’s tourism sector.

Under the new regime, short-term rental operators must meet specific requirements to ensure compliance and maintain quality standards. Facilities with four or more listings must present a business registration certificate, while those with fewer than three listings are required to provide a Ghana Card.

The registration process grants operators a six-month provisional license, which can be renewed upon submitting documents such as a police clearance certificate, fire report, environmental health report, and proof of ownership. Hosts will also need to provide details such as their name, Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN), Ghana Card ID, business registration certificate, email, phone number, and property address through the GTA’s soon-to-be-launched single window platform.

Collaboration with Airbnb
Over the past two years, the GTA has worked closely with Airbnb to regularize short-term rental operations in Ghana. This partnership has led to the creation of a Responsible Hosting Page for Ghana on Airbnb’s platform, providing hosts with essential registration information. Some hosts have already completed the registration process, signaling progress in the GTA’s efforts to bring order to the sector.

Akwasi Agyeman, CEO of the GTA, described the initiative as a landmark moment in Ghana’s tourism development. “The introduction of this new registration regime marks a significant milestone in our efforts to create a structured and sustainable tourism ecosystem in Ghana. By regularizing short-term rentals, we are not only ensuring the safety and quality of accommodations but also fostering economic benefits and cultural exchange,” he stated.

Tailored Standards for Short-Term Rentals
As part of its strategy, the GTA is developing specialized standards for short-term rentals to enhance the tourism experience. This move is expected to not only improve the quality of services but also contribute significantly to Ghana’s economic growth by attracting more visitors and encouraging cultural exchange.

The GTA’s initiatives align with its broader vision of fostering a balanced tourism ecosystem that supports economic development while preserving cultural heritage and engaging local communities.

This effort to streamline short-term rental operations reinforces Ghana’s position as a preferred travel destination, offering both visitors and hosts a secure and well-regulated platform for cultural and economic interaction.