Accra: The Service Excellence Foundation (SEF), in collaboration with the Ghana Tourism Federation, the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA), and the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, hosted the fourth edition of the NAKOFEST industry hospitality leadership breakfast summit. The event, aligning with World Mental Health Day and National Customer Service Week, focused on mental health's pivotal role in enhancing workplace environments and fostering business growth within the hospitality sector. According to Ghana News Agency, the summit in Accra brought together leaders from both the public and private sectors, including representatives from the Mental Health Authority (MHA), Ghana Health Service, and various tourism and hospitality trade associations. Diplomatic missions, academia, and traditional rulers also participated. The theme for this year's event was "The role of mental health and wellbeing; a catalyst to an enhanced work environment for business growth in the hospitality industry." Mr. Andrew Agyapa M ercer, Minister for Tourism, Arts and Culture, emphasized the importance of open dialogue about mental health in the workplace. He encouraged industry leaders to create a supportive and empowering environment for all employees, which he believes is essential for building a resilient and sustainable tourism sector in Ghana. Dr. Caroline Reindorf Amissah, Deputy CEO of MHA, highlighted that the Authority aims to implement national mental health advocacy policy programs across Ghana. She praised the SEF for its strong leadership in advocating for mental health and wellbeing within the hospitality sector, suggesting that such initiatives could include training programs, flexible work schedules, and the creation of safe spaces for open discussions on mental wellness to boost productivity. Mr. Akwasi Agyeman, CEO of GTA, acknowledged the critical role that mental health plays in ensuring high-quality service delivery and driving business growth. He confirmed GTA's commitment to continue supporting initiatives tha t promote mental health and wellbeing within the tourism and hospitality industry. Mr. Caleb Kofie, President of SEF and National Tourism Customer Service Brand Ambassador for Ghana, stated that NAKOFEST serves as an annual event to appreciate industry employees and customers, address service delivery challenges, and enhance customer satisfaction through partnerships with business stakeholders. He stressed the necessity of addressing mental health challenges to maintain high levels of employee motivation and improve service quality. The event also included a special panel session with international participation from the United Kingdom, USA, and Ghana, focusing on the event's theme. Additionally, the SEF made charitable donations, including a wheelchair, food items, and a cash gift to Madam Paula Mensah, a disabled resident of Ashiaman in the Greater Accra, demonstrating the foundation's ongoing commitment to supporting the less privileged in society.