Heritage Meets Strategy: Western Serene Atlantic Hotel Eyes Bigger Tourism Role Under New GM

The appointment of Mercy Abena Twumwaa Asubonteng as General Manager of the Western Serene Atlantic Hotel marks more than a leadership change. It reflects renewed efforts to align one of Ghana’s most historic hotels, built under Dr. Kwame Nkrumah in 1962, with the country’s wider tourism development agenda.

Ms. Asubonteng, who officially takes over on September 1, 2025, brings more than two decades of industry experience in food and beverage operations, conferencing, banqueting, and marketing within top-tier hotels.

Her track record of combining operational efficiency with market expansion is expected to play a pivotal role in the First Sky Group’s ambition to push the Western Serene Atlantic into the ranks of Ghana’s five-star establishments within the next three years.

The leadership of the new GM is crucial at a time when Ghana’s hospitality sector is becoming increasingly competitive, driven by rising domestic tourism and growing international interest in West Africa as a travel destination.

With her background in both strategic management and customer experience, Ms. Asubonteng is expected to steer the hotel into new business segments, strengthen conference tourism in Takoradi, and tap into the corporate market while maintaining the leisure appeal of the coastal resort city.

The Western Serene Atlantic Hotel holds historical importance for Ghana’s tourism story. Built in 1962 by Ghana’s first president, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, it was part of his broader vision of positioning Ghana as a hub for international diplomacy, leisure, and Pan-African hospitality. Revitalising such a landmark property not only preserves its historical significance but also supports Ghana’s modern efforts to diversify the economy through tourism, which has been identified as a priority growth sector.

The First Sky Group’s acquisition of the hotel in 2024 and its continued investment in infrastructure and management talent demonstrates confidence in Ghana’s hospitality market.

Beyond offering luxury rooms and leisure facilities, the facility’s positioning along the Takoradi coastline makes it a strategic player in expanding the Western region’s appeal as both a business and holiday destination.

For Ms. Asubonteng, her challenge will be to build on this legacy while aligning with global hospitality trends such as sustainability, digital innovation, and customer-centered service delivery.

Her leadership could set the benchmark for how historical assets in Ghana’s tourism industry are modernized to remain competitive without losing their heritage appeal.

Chief Executive Officer of Serene Hotels & Resorts, Mrs. Rhoda Ashiabi noted that: “Abena’s passion for excellence, visionary aptitude, and robust leadership are exactly what we need to achieve our tactical goal of positioning the hotel among the top-tier five-star establishments in Ghana and West Africa within the next three years.”

The sentiment was echoed by Mr. Eric Seddy Kutortse, Executive Chairman of First Sky Group, who stressed the wider impact of the appointment: “We are proud to see Abena assume this leadership role. Her appointment reflects the Group’s firm belief in women’s exceptional leadership skills, expertise, and their pivotal role in driving success within a globally competitive hospitality market.”

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