The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) has called on the Sekyere Central District Assembly to fully exploit the economic potential of the Atwea Mountains by developing it into a hub for religious tourism.

Speaking during a committee sitting in Kumasi, Chairperson Hon. Abena Osei Asare questioned why the district has yet to maximise the steady influx of visitors who frequent the mountain for prayer and spiritual activities.

She noted that destinations such as Jerusalem generate substantial revenue through religious tourism, stressing that similar opportunities exist at the Atwea Mountains if properly developed and managed.

According to her, revenue generated from the site could be channelled into critical infrastructure projects, including roads, healthcare facilities, and other community development initiatives.

Responding to the concerns, the District Chief Executive, Mr. Samuel Somuah, indicated that the Assembly has already taken over operations of the mountain’s car park and is currently generating some revenue from it.

He added that efforts are underway, in collaboration with the Ashanti Regional Coordinating Council, to resolve outstanding issues at the site, after which the district intends to fully optimise its economic potential.

Currently, revenue collection at the mountain is handled by the Forestry Commission, but plans are in place for the District Assembly to assume full control once administrative and operational challenges are addressed.

Hon. Osei Asare further urged the DCE to work closely with the Ministers for Local Government and Natural Resources to develop a comprehensive strategy aimed at maximising the benefits of religious tourism at the Atwea Mountains.