Effects of Policy Enforcement and Government Incentives on Strategic Choice of Destination for PWDs

The study investigates the impact of policy enforcement and government incentives on the strategic destination choices of persons with disabilities (PWDs). Conducted in Ghana, a nation rich in cultural and natural tourism assets, the research adopts a quantitative methodology with a descriptive approach. A sample of 250 PWDs, categorized by visual, mobility, and hearing impairments, was analyzed using multiple linear regression to evaluate the effects of policy enforcement, government incentives, and accessibility measures on destination preferences. The findings reveal that policy enforcement and government incentives have significant positive impacts on the strategic choices of destinations for PWDs, explaining 80.5% of the variance in destination selection. Stronger enforcement of disability- supportive policies and tailored accessibility measures emerge as critical factors influencing the inclusivity and appeal of tourism environments for PWDs. The study also highlights the need for accommodations to address specific disability types, as they significantly affect destination choices. These results underscore the necessity of holistic and inclusive policy frameworks that incorporate financial incentives, regulatory compliance, and stakeholder engagement to enhance tourism accessibility. The research contributes to the growing discourse on inclusive tourism by providing empirical evidence supporting policy interventions and accessibility enhancements as catalysts for improving travel experiences for PWDs. Recommendations include strengthening policy enforcement, incentivizing businesses to prioritize accessibility, and tailoring tourism services to the unique needs of various disability types. These measures are essential for fostering inclusivity and equal opportunities in the tourism sector.