Abstract:
The study focused on the issue of workforce development challenges in the hospitality and tourism
sector in the Ayawaso West Municipal Assembly in Greater Accra. It examined the specific
challenges businesses in hospitality and tourism face in recruiting, managing, and retaining a
skilled workforce and assessed the impact of these challenges on sectoral growth. A quantitative
research method was employed, using a structured questionnaire to gather data from key personnel
in the industry. The sample comprised 140 respondents from star-rated hotels, restaurants, and
travel trade businesses within the municipality. Results from the study showed that the most
significant workforce development challenges included difficulties in attracting qualified talented
workforce, retention of skilled employees, high turnover and inadequate training opportunities.
Despite some efforts to create positive work environments and provide feedback mechanisms as a
means of managing the workforce, there were concerns about the effectiveness of recruitment
processes and retention strategies. Furthermore, businesses reported that workforce challenges
negatively impacted their growth, innovation, and customer satisfaction, with financial strains
linked to training costs and frequent turnover. These findings demonstrate the urgent need for
focused approaches to improving workforce development, including improved pay systems,
training programs, and clear career development pathways. These issues need to be resolved to
enhance customer satisfaction and staff morale and promote the sustainable growth of Ghana’s
hospitality and tourism industry.
