President John Dramani Mahama has endorsed efforts by aviation agencies to stop airport workers from soliciting or begging visitors for tips, saying the practice damages Ghana’s image.

President Mahama made the remarks on Thursday, August 27, 2026, at the sod-cutting ceremony for the Multi-Tiered, Multi-Purpose Car Park and Airport Hotels Complex at the Accra International Airport.

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He said workers at the airport must demonstrate professionalism, discipline and good hospitality because their conduct can shape a visitor’s first impression of Ghana.

“I’m happy that the Ghana Airports Company Limited, the Civil Aviation Authority and other institutions working at the airport are taking a tough stance against soliciting and begging visitors for tips. It reflects very badly on our country,” he said.

He stressed that every worker and institution operating at the airport had a role to play in protecting Ghana’s image among international travellers.

“Every institution and every worker at this airport contributes to Ghana’s image,” the President stated.

President Mahama said the way visitors are treated at immigration, baggage-handling points, traffic areas and other service points can influence how they view the country.

He added that efficiency, cleanliness and good customer service were important in ensuring that visitors leave Ghana with a positive impression.

The Ghana Airports Company Limited has already taken action as part of the crackdown, dismissing two car park workers over alleged incidents of soliciting tips from passengers.

Meanwhile, the planned airport development will include two hotels, more than 2,000 parking spaces, a pedestrian link to the terminal, a shopping mall, food court, retail and office spaces, as well as a sky lounge and observatory overlooking aircraft operations.

Begging for tips at the airport undermines Ghana’s image – President Mahama



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