Museums, Monuments and International Tourism in Ghana

Abstract

This dissertation is a study of the relevance of tours by international visitors of Ghana's Museum and monuments over the past decade to the country's relations with other nations and to world peace in general. The types of museums and monuments found in the country and the programmes and services they offer tourists are discussed. The study attempts to show that museums and monuments assist in deepening understanding among foreign visitors of the cultural heritage of Ghana and encourage peaceful coexistence between Ghanaians and foreigners. However, they are sources of conflict of different kinds, as observed, for example by Bruner (1996), that do not serve the cause of world peace. Variables that account for understanding and peace, and for conflict are identified and discussed. Results of the work are expected to assist organizations and agencies associated with Ghana's museums and monuments, tourism, as well as Ghana's foreign affairs experts, in the planning and execution of policies that would minimise conflict at these tourism centres and foster harmony and peace among the wide range of visitors. The relevant data derive from observations made at selected museums and monuments across the country and from oral information obtained through interviews of tourists, tour guides, tour promotors, curators and other staff of the Ghana Museums and Monuments Board. Analyses of the data is done with reference to literature on museums and monuments and their role in tourism and global peace.