The Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL) has issued a firm reminder to the public about the strict guidelines governing cultural displays and other informal activities at Kotoka International Airport (KIA), emphasising that no cultural presentation, performance or public display is permitted without prior approval and authorisation from airport management.
In a statement released by the airport authority, GACL clarified that Kotoka International Airport Ghana’s primary gateway for both international and domestic travellers operates under specific safety, security and operational protocols. According to the directive, individuals, cultural groups, community representatives or organisations who wish to stage cultural performances whether to welcome loved ones, entertain passengers or promote heritage must first secure formal consent from GACL before attempting any display within the airport precincts.
Kotoka International Airport spans multiple terminals, departure and arrival halls, lounges and public spaces. As such, GACL emphasised that unapproved activities can disrupt essential airport functions, interfere with passenger movement and compromise operational safety. The company stressed that even well-intended cultural displays such as drumming, dancing, traditional greetings or ceremonial welcome programmes require advance notice, risk assessment and logistical coordination with airport authorities.
Airport officials explained that the policy is grounded in two main priorities: operational efficiency and passenger safety. Kotoka International Airport handles thousands of travellers daily, and security protocols are designed to ensure smooth passenger flow, regulatory compliance and minimal interference with airline operations. Unscheduled performances or gatherings in high-traffic areas could inadvertently cause congestion or distract security personnel from their duties.
GACL further explained that any cultural display approved at the airport would be coordinated through its Corporate Affairs and Commercial Departments, which are responsible for overseeing public engagements, passenger experience and activities within airport premises. These departments review proposals, assess safety implications and issue official authorisation prior to any activity being staged.
Under the guidelines, individuals or groups interested in organising cultural displays at KIA must submit formal written requests detailing the nature of the activity, proposed location, number of participants, duration, and any equipment to be used. The airport authority said requests must be submitted well in advance to allow for proper assessment and coordination with relevant operational and security units.
GACL noted that the approval requirement aligns with global best practices in airport management. International airports around the world restrict unscheduled performances and gatherings to maintain security screening procedures, ensure emergency routes remain accessible and protect travellers from unexpected disruptions. The company stated that KIA’s policy reflects international aviation standards and regulatory expectations.
Airport management also warned that unauthorised cultural displays could result in intervention by airport security, including removal of participants from airport premises. GACL urged members of the public to strictly adhere to the approval process to avoid inconvenience or enforcement action.
Public reaction to the directive has been mixed. While some travellers and cultural advocates have expressed concern that spontaneous cultural expression may be limited, others acknowledge that structured approval is necessary to preserve order, safety and efficiency in a busy international travel environment. GACL has reiterated that its intention is not to suppress cultural expression but to ensure it is conducted in a safe and organised manner.
As passenger traffic at Kotoka International Airport continues to grow, the airport authority said maintaining clear operational guidelines is essential to sustaining Ghana’s reputation as a secure and well-managed aviation hub. GACL believes that structured coordination allows cultural promotion and airport operations to coexist without compromising safety or passenger experience.
Going forward, the airport authority indicated its willingness to engage with cultural organisations, community leaders and stakeholders to develop clear pathways for approved cultural showcases that celebrate Ghana’s heritage while respecting airport regulations. GACL said such collaboration would help balance cultural identity with the demands of modern airport operations.