Call Center
Photos: Miss Heritage Global Ladies plant trees ahead of contest
The environment and trees are very important components of our heritage and the Miss Heritage Global ladies together with Ghana Tourism Authority and Forestry Commission planted trees at Sakumono on Thursday as part of their 10-day experience.
Below are Photos
Click to view all photos
#yearofreturn #Ghana2019 #MTG19
#LetsGoGhana #heritage #MyHeritage #MyCulture Nature
Photos: Television Host Steve Harvey’s welcome to Ghana
Television Host, Actor, Comedian, and Radio King Steve Harvey is in Ghana and as part of the ‘Year of Return, Ghana 2019’ celebrations which has opened Ghan’s door to all, he and his family were welcomed at the W.E.B. Dubois Centre in Accra.
Steve Harvey shared his plans and experiences with us which can be summed in his words “This is Home”.
#yearofreturn #ghana #letsgoghana #brafie #ghana2019 #visitghana#diaspora #Africa #yearofreturn2019 #travel #accra #african#travelnoire #culture #theyearofreturn #SteveHarvey #DuBois
Year of Return: Television Host, Actor, Comedian, and Radio King Steve Harvey visits Ghana
The Year of Return, an initiative aimed at marking 400 years since the first black slaves landed in Jamestown Virginia is taking off like fire.
Already, the initiative that urges Africans in the diaspora to come back home, has seen an array of celebrities make their way into Ghana to explore, learn and appreciate their roots.
American comedian and television host, Steve Harvey, has joined the array of African American diasporan who have visited to learn more about their roots to slavery.
The Minister of Tourism, Babara Oteng Gyasi and the Year of Tourism committee met up with the comedian at the W.E.B DuBois Centre in Cantonments, Accra.
Steve Harvey was greeted by Mrs Oteng Gyasi who disclosed she was ecstatic to have the actor visit the country.
The comedian is in town with his family to visit the various tourist sites including the castles where slaves were kept, learn more about Ghanaian music and also about the African roots.
Steve Harvey is not the only celebrity from the United States to have come to Ghana.
Actor Boris Johnson, in late 2018, along with some of his friends from Hollywood, came to the country to spend Christmas.
The team included Nicole Ari Parker, Diggy Simmons, Micheal Jai White, Anthony Anderson (of Blackish), Rosario Dawson, Jidenna, Cynthia Bailey, Bozoma Saint John and many others
They explored the castles, markets, traditions, culture. In their adventures and quest to learn more about traditions, Michael Jai White got enstooled as ‘Odupong’ of Akwamu Traditional Area by the Akwamuhene Odeneho Kwafo Akoto III – Akwamumanhene.
Also, in honour of the celebrations, the committee organised a music festival which saw sensational artiste Deborah Cox, Ernie Smith, Irvin Mayfield and reggae band Third World coming to the country to perform and explore the music, art and culture.
After tracing his roots to Gabon, ace actor Samuel L Jackson, also made his way to Ghana to shoot a documentary on slavery.
His adventures in the country included visiting local markets like Makola, fish markets in cape coast and many others to have a feel of the culture and the people.
The Year of Return, an initiative aimed at marking 400 years since the first black slaves landed in Jamestown Virginia is taking off like fire.
Already, the initiative that urges Africans in the diaspora to come back home, has seen an array of celebrities make their way into Ghana to explore, learn and appreciate their roots.
American comedian and television host, Steve Harvey, has joined the array of African American diasporan who have visited to learn more about their roots to slavery.
The Minister of Tourism, Babara Oteng Gyasi and the Year of Tourism committee met up with the comedian at the W.E.B DuBois Centre in Cantonments, Accra.
Steve Harvey was greeted by Mrs Oteng Gyasi who disclosed she was ecstatic to have the actor visit the country.
The comedian is in town with his family to visit the various tourist sites including the castles where slaves were kept, learn more about Ghanaian music and also about the African roots.
Steve Harvey is not the only celebrity from the United States to have come to Ghana.
Actor Boris Johnson, in late 2018, along with some of his friends from Hollywood, came to the country to spend Christmas.
The team included Nicole Ari Parker, Diggy Simmons, Micheal Jai White, Anthony Anderson (of Blackish), Rosario Dawson, Jidenna, Cynthia Bailey, Bozoma Saint John and many others
They explored the castles, markets, traditions, culture. In their adventures and quest to learn more about traditions, Michael Jai White got enstooled as ‘Odupong’ of Akwamu Traditional Area by the Akwamuhene Odeneho Kwafo Akoto III – Akwamumanhene.
Also, in honour of the celebrations, the committee organised a music festival which saw sensational artiste Deborah Cox, Ernie Smith, Irvin Mayfield and reggae band Third World coming to the country to perform and explore the music, art and culture.
After tracing his roots to Gabon, ace actor Samuel L Jackson, also made his way to Ghana to shoot a documentary on slavery.
His adventures in the country included visiting local markets like Makola, fish markets in cape coast and many others to have a feel of the culture and the people.
Travel Woman lists Ghana as one of the Best places to visit in 2019
A new year often rings in new ambitious travel plans, but where are the best places to travel in 2019? Keep reading for our top 32 countries to visit in 2019 and vote below for your favourite in our country face-off bracket! This year’s list is almost double our lists for 2017 and 2018. As always, the goal of our annual list is to fuel your wanderlust. We want to give you new reasons to visit places you thought you already knew, share with you places you’ve never heard of and provide insights on what’s going on in 2019 specifically. Which festival, anniversary or event will make 2019 the year that you visit? Which country will be the next trending hot spot to see before the other tourists go? What will be the next adventure destination, like Iceland, or the next cultural time machine trip like Cuba? If you’re not sure which destination will be your next trip, take one of our travel personality Quizzes. After voting below on round 2, check back in one week to vote on round 3 and to see which countries will move on to be crowned the best place to visit in 2019, earning additional article features!
1. Uzbekistan:
Uzbekistan is located at the heart of the Silk Road and is one of the friendliest and safest Central Asian countries. Visit expansive deserts, stay in a Yurt camp or see the abandoned ship graveyard on the Aral Sea. It has never been easier to visit Uzbekistan with their new and cheaper electronic visa system making it easier for residents from the U.S., the UK and 51 other countries to visit. For more about this destination, read our 11 reasons to visit Uzbekistan in 2019!
2. Guatemala:
Expats love to visit Guatemala for extended stays due to the Mayan history, budget-friendly accommodations and natural wonders. Antigua is the most popular city amongst visitors for its Spanish Colonial architecture, delicious eateries, and views of Volcan de Agua. Visit some of the top natural and historical sights, like Lake Atitlan, Semuc Champey’s turquoise pools, and the ancient Mayan ruins at Tikal.
3. Albania:
Imagine Positano or the Greek Islands without the crowds and at a fraction of the cost. Here you can enjoy five-star luxury hotels for under $100 per night. Nature lovers can relish the peaceful Riviera beaches and adventure hikes. For more read our 11 reasons to travel to Albania!
4. Colombia:
Colombia combines the feel of a European destination with jungle adventures and pristine beaches. President Alvaro Uribe has helped to address crime in the country and to make it a safe place for visitors. Enjoy the Pacific and Caribbean beaches and eco-friendly adventures in the rainforest and Andes mountains. There’s so much to see, including the breathtaking Las Lajas Sanctuary in the mountains. Sip some of the best coffee in the world to help keep you caffeinated as you check-off amazing experiences from your Colombia bucket list.
5. South Africa:
Travel to South Africa to celebrate Nelson Mandela’s 100th birthday and for beautiful contrasts between its vibrant modern city culture and the stunning natural landscapes. See the big five, including the lion, elephant, Cape buffalo, leopard and rhino, in Kruger National Park. Visit the only penguin species that breeds in Africa at Cape Town’s Boulders Beach. Take a ride on one of the most luxurious trains in the world along the Blue Train route from Pretoria to Cape Town, where all meals and drinks are included.
6. Jamaica:
This Caribbean paradise offers a fun mix of luxury resorts and adventure activities, from the white sand beaches to the Blue Mountains. Whether you’re sipping the infamous Blue Mountain coffee or aged rum, Bob Marley’s “no worries” vibes are ever-present. This birthplace of reggae is truly a destination for every type of traveler. For more read our Jamaica Guide.
7. Ghana:
In 1957, this West African nation was the first sub-Saharan African country to gain independence, leading the way for other nations. History buffs can visit the National Museum of Ghana in Accra to learn more. Ghana offers more historic forts and castles than any other African nation. Here you can also witness ancient rituals and festivals performed by the local tribes. Ghana Tourism is celebrating “Year of Return, Ghana 2019”, to mark the 400-year anniversary of the first enslaved Africans arriving in the United States and to encourage African-Americans and other diaspora to visit their ancestral home of Ghana in 2019.
8. Hungary:
Budapest, Hungary is another amazing destination. Think Prague, in the Czech Republic, but a less-touristy version. Budapest is filled with historic sights, friendly people, and delicious goulash. I’ve visited both Prague and Budapest and have tasted both cuisines and I prefer Hungarian goulash, which is more like a heavy beef stew. Everything in Hungary is affordable, from hotels to dinners out to clothing. Take a river cruise by day to take in the city sights and take a river booze cruise by night to experience the fun, underground nightlife.
9. Singapore:
Singapore is a city and country made up of 60 different islands. It is also the futuristic metropolis backdrop of the “Crazy Rich Asians” book and movie. Shortly after Singapore’s independence in 1965 the Prime Minister began building an urban oasis “Garden City” plan. As part of this plan, new buildings are required to include plants and green spaces, contributing to Singapore’s title as the most tree canopy covered municipality in the world. In 1981, Singapore chose their national flower to be the hybrid orchid, the Vanda Miss Joaquim, for its vibrant and tough spirit. Singapore has moved orchid cultivation forward through sustainable development and a commitment to a greener planet. Read more in 11 things to do in Singapore and the NYC Orchid Show: Singapore.
10. Jordan:
There’s more to Jordan than floating in the Dead Sea and biblical sights like the famous Petra, featured in Indiana Jones. The capital, Amman, is thought to be one of the oldest cities in the world, with a history dating back to the 13th century BC. Hikers have many paths to travel, including the Jordan Trail, which extends from the top to the bottom of the country, and takes about 40 days to complete.
11. Norway:
If you’re looking for art and culture visit Oslo; or, if you’re traveling to escape the bustle of the city and want to find a quiet winter wonderland, visit northern Norway. If you’re visiting between October and January, when it’s especially cold and dark, you may be lucky and see the aurora borealis, or northern lights. If you are looking for more hours of daylight to explore and adventure then we recommend you visit between May and August.
12. Germany:
There are many things to celebrate in 2019 in Germany, including the 30th anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall, 100 years of the Bauhaus architectural movement and the Documenta in Kassel. The Documenta in Kassel is one of the world’s most important showcases of contemporary art, which is held every 5 years and will take place this year from June 18 to September 25. Not a meat lover? Vegetarians will rejoice in Berlin, which has more vegetarian restaurants than any other European capital. You may also want to attend Vevolution, offering vegetarian dishes as part of the “eat! Berlin Festival.”
13. Panama:
Panama became famous in 1914 for the Panama Canal, but there’s so much more to this Central American country. Enjoy Panama’s white sand beaches and tropical wildlife, and without the crowds of tourists, you can island hop to empty oases that feel like your own private island. Travel inland to Boquete to zipline through the forest, trek across hanging bridges, and taste the world famous Kotowa coffee. Panama City is worthy of more than just a stopover too, with so many Instagrammable spots in Casco Viejo, the historic district of Panama City. Also, did you know, the city holds second place to only NYC and Chicago when it comes to the number of skyscrapers? Read the full Panama Guide.
14. Namibia:
While South Africa is well-known for safaris and the Sahara Desert is a known as the world’s largest desert, Namibia is a less touristy destination offering safari adventures, epic desert landscapes, and much more. The Namib Desert is the world’s oldest living desert, with 80 million years of history. Experience surreal sights, including Dead Vlei’s petrified trees, Kolmanskop, a ghost town overtaken by sand, and Sossusvlei, a destination offering the highest red sand dunes in the world.
15. Greenland:
Greenland is the largest island in the world and boasts the world’s largest national park. It might just be the next “Iceland” for adventure-seekers and nature-lovers, complete with winter views of the aurora borealis, or northern lights. Eighty percent of the country is covered in the Greenlandic ice sheet, which is up to 10,000 years old and holds 10 percent of the world’s fresh water reserves. Balance your time in the cold by warming up in one of the country’s natural hot springs, such the picturesque Uunartoq hot springs.
16. Oman:
Oman is an undiscovered gem where you can swim, dive, hike and walk through the desert, all in one trip. It is one of the safest countries right now according to this article. Located next to the more popular country of the United Arab Emirates, you can enjoy luxurious resorts or desert camps in Oman, without the crowding of too many tourists. Divers can enjoy world-class reefs, beachgoers will love the many shores along the Persian Gulf, and adventurers can go caving or hike through the red mountains. Shop for handmade clothing, bags or jewelry at a local souk market. If you’re wondering why there’s frankincense everywhere, you can visit the Land of Frankincense, an UNESCO World Heritage Site. The trade of perfume and frankincense with Europeans originated here and you can learn more about the history in the Museum of Frankincense Land in Southern Oman.
17. South Korea:
Fly into Incheon Airport, one of the top five best airports in the world, complete with an ice-skating rink, casino and sleeping rooms. South Korea has so many bakeries and cafes, many with dog and cat themes, that there is a law that bakeries cannot be within a certain distance. You can also stock up on some of the world’s most advanced skin and beauty products at their affordable beauty stores.
18. New Zealand:
The other-worldly landscapes made famous by The Lord of the Rings movies include mountains, glaciers, stunning beaches and even glowworm caves. It is extremely safe and full of friendly locals, making it a perfect choice for solo travelers. Adrenaline junkies can enjoy some of the world’s best views while caving, abseiling, zorbing and skydiving.
19. Senegal:
Only a five-hour flight from most of Europe, Senegal is a unique African nation rich with friendly locals, some of the most sought out surfing in the world, and the Pink Lake, or “Lake Retba”, which is most vibrant from November to June. Enjoy shopping at local markets for traditional and handmade jewelry or sous-verre, a popular artistic technique of painting on glass.
20. Philippines:
The Philippines will host the 2019 Southeast Asian Games for the first time since 2005 and this year the event will include e-sports. The Philippines is an archipelago of over 7,000 islands with powdery white sand beaches. In addition to beautiful shores, divers can also delight in the sights of whale sharks. Travel for the scenic island vibes but stay for the friendly Filipino people, delicious cuisine and famous Jollibee chain restaurant.
21. Mexico:
Most visitors flock to Cancun or Cabo, but there’s much more to Mexico that’s still relatively undiscovered. Only an eight-mile boat ride from Cancun, Isla Mujeres is an old fishing village turned beach oasis that even includes an underwater sculpture museum. Further out, Isla Holbox feels like your own private island. Looking for something away from the beach? Las Pozas is a surreal Garden of Eden located in the mountains between Tampico and Mexico City. It feels like an abandoned magical place and can be only be found off the beaten path. Mexico City has its own secret spots, such as the Vasconcelos Library and Museo del Juguete Antiguo Mexico, that are worth a visit.
22. Armenia:
Armenia is not a top bucket list destination yet, but there is much about this fascinating country worth exploring. Did you know that it was the first country to make Christianity a state religion? It is also home to the longest ropeway in the world, known as the Wings of Tatev. This 5.7km aerial tramway will take you from Halidzor station up to the Tatev monastery. You cannot miss the stunning views of Mount Ararat. This dormant volcano is a biblical landmark and provides a stunning backdrop to the capital of Armenia, Yerevan.
23. Estonia:
Located just a short ferry ride from Helsinki or Stockholm, this small country is an easy addition to any Scandinavia or Europe trip. Estonia is particularly attractive as it is less crowded and cheaper than many of its European neighbors. The quaint, cobblestone streets of the old medieval town of Tallinn, Estonia, are reason enough to visit. Photographers will love the large swing in Viljandi and the many unique wall signs, the two most well-known of which say “The times we’ve had” and “Save the camera, honey. Enjoy the view.”
24. St. Lucia:
This is a beautiful island country where romance and relaxation live. Here you can stay at Jade Mountain, one of the world’s best five-star luxury resorts. At Jade Mountain the rooms are called sanctuaries and each one has its own private infinity pool. If you dare to leave the resort-life, you can explore some of the Caribbean’s most scenic coastlines, hike up the Pitons, two picturesque volcanic peaks, or take a chocolate tour. All beaches are open to the public, even the Viceroy Resort’s Sugar Beach, which is a must-visit. Snorkelers and divers will enjoy the wreck of the freighter Lesleen M and Turtle Reef. Read our tour of St. Lucia.
25. Argentina:
See a total solar eclipse on July 2 in parts of Argentina in 2019. There’s so much more to Argentina than its European-style capital Buenos Aires. In addition to its capital, you should visit Argentina’s lake district, explore Glacier National Park, and visit Iguazu Falls, one of the seven natural wonders of the world. Go further south to Tierra del Fuego, where you can travel to Antarctica or simply see the contrast of this beautiful country’s snowy mountains.
26. Georgia:
Located between the Caucasus Mountains and the Black Sea, Georgia shares its borders with Russia in the north, Azerbaijan in the east, and Turkey in the south. The local cheese bread, called khachapuri, is reason enough to visit and have a traditional Georgian feast. The most popular cheese bread is the Adjaran, which is a bread bowl of molten sulguni cheese, egg and butter that is often mixed right in front of you. Their Khinkhali dumplings are another popular treat. This dense soup dumpling is filled with meat and soup stock. Did we mention that Georgia might also be where wine originated from? Archaelogists have discovered evidence that wine was produced here 8,000 years ago! Looking to explore some extraordinary rock formations and caves but think Turkey’s popular Cappadocia is too touristy for you? Visit Georgia’s cave cities like Uplitstsikhe, its oldest cave town.
27. Egypt:
Egypt has been growing in popularity and in 2019 see the movie adaptation of Agatha Christie’s “Death on the Nile.” Visit now before the Grand Egyptian Museum in Giza will drive up tourism in 2020. In Egypt, you can sail down the Nile, the longest river in the world. In addition to its idyllic beaches, you can dive one of more than 100 ship wrecks in the Red Sea. Then, of course, there are the infamous ancient sites, such as the largest open-air museum of Luxor and the Great Pyramid of Giza, the only remaining Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
28. Switzerland:
Every 21 years Switzerland hosts a special wine festival in Vevey and for those of you planning to visit this year, you’re in luck! The festival will be held this summer from July 26 to August 11. Switzerland is also known for its chocolate and is home to Nestle, Toblerone and Lindt. While you’re eating chocolate with a mountain on it, why not visit the Matterhorn’s jagged peak, which is just a railway ride from Zermatt. You can find some of the most scenic cable car and train rides in the Swiss Alps. In addition to the traditional winter sports, try something unique like an agritourism stay in a hayloft. This is perfect for families with young kids who want to learn about farm animals while sleeping above them in rural Switzerland.
29. Finland:
Finland’s seaside capital, Helsinki, is an art and design epicenter. Helsinki’s Market Square, known as Kauppatori, is a great place to experience the local fare and buy from local vendors. Just a 10-minute ferry ride from Kauppatori you can visit Suomenlinna, a picturesque Unesco World Heritage site. There’s a fortress on Suomenlinna said to have inspired the Lord of the Rings hobbit-style homes. We’ve shared articles on 11 everyday Finnish designs you already know and love and the 11 most instagrammable places in Helsinki and the weird and wacky Finnish foods, including Reindeer and Salmiakki black licorice.
30. Ethiopia:
Travel back in time to discover some of Africa’s lesser known wildlife and historic sites. Ethiopia has some of the world’s most sacred sites with 11 monolithic churches dating back to the late 12th century. Coffee was first discovered in Ethiopia and visitors can even participate in a coffee ceremony. Ethiopian food is one of the world’s most flavorful fares, served on a platter to share.
31. Montenegro:
Budva, Montenegro will host the 2019 Games of the Small States of Europe. Lord Byron said “the most beautiful meeting of land and sea on this planet” was in Montenegro. This lesser visited neighbor of Croatia enjoys the Mediterranean cuisine you love, crystal clear waters, and has managed to stay off the radar of the party scene.
32. Vietnam:
Vietnam saw a 30 percent increase in tourism in 2018. In fact, with the increase in tourism, they have almost as many visitors as Thailand. If you’re looking to enjoy a tropical retreat and white sand beaches visit in December, at the end of the rainy season, but get there before the busy Christmas season hits its peak. Another time to avoid is Vietnamese New Year in February unless you are looking to participate in some local festivities.
Amazing, you made it through all 32 countries, you deserve a vacation! Take this quiz to find out the best tropical destination for you or enter our $100 Amazon Giveaway and Postcard Giveaway, where I’ll personally write you a vintage NYC postcard! Thanks, and don’t forget to share this post with friends so they can vote for their favourites too!
Source: Travel Women is a community for women by women to empower women to travel outside their comfort zone.
Organization Sparks ‘Year of Return’
By Nyame-kye Kondo
With 2019 marking the 400 year anniversary of the first recorded slave ships docking on Western Shores, The United States Congress recently put into motion, H.R. 1242, a bill also known as “400 Years of African-American History Commission Act.” This initiative is an umbrella for a number of different projects, but more specifically, as it states in Section 3 of it’s doctrine, “This bill establishes the 400 Years of African-American History Commission to develop and carry out activities throughout the United States to commemorate the 400th anniversary of the arrival of Africans in the English colonies at Point Comfort, Virginia, in 1619.”
Funded through donations and steered by a committee of volunteers, the Bill sets precedence on honoring the Black Experience in America, while also being open to international collaboration.
The Adinkra Cultural Arts Studio, under the leadership of Diallo Sumbry, helped spark the “Year of Return,” which encourages African Americans to visit Ghana as 2019 marks the 400 year anniversary of the first recorded slave ships docking in the United States.
The bill is ” to look at the ways we can confront our history and ensure that the contributions of African Americans to society are never forgotten,” according to Wade Robinson of Civilrights.org.
The passing of H.R. 1242 was the incentive that D.M.V based entrepreneur Diallo Sumbry, needed to further expand his business, fulfill his purpose, and to help diasporans build a new relationship with Africa, specifically, Ghana.
The founder of Adinkra Cultural Arts Studio (ACAS) in Mount Rainier, Sumbry is at the helm of the “Year of Return” movement that has many African Americans heading to Ghana for pilgrimage, immersion and enjoyment. Leading a handful of tours to Ghana over the last five years, Sumbry recognizes that immersion is apart of the reacclimation process.
“I came to Ghana for the first time in 2013, and in a short span of time I have been able to build an exchange between Ghana and America that is steeped not only in arts and culture, but the African Americans reclamation of the continent as a whole,” Sumbry said. “It is my hope that this movement will help to reconnect not only those displaced as a result of slavery, but the African Diaspora in general.”
Having more than a decade of experience in arts managing, directing, and facilitating, Sumbry has been a, “key figure in the planning and development of the year-long calendar of activities in celebration of the resilience of the African spirit,” reports Business Ghana.
Recently named the first African-American ambassador of Tourism by former Minister of Tourism and Culture, the Honorable Catherine Afeku, this year marks the third year that Sumbry will be facilitating his own tours. With the first tour featuring GoGo legends, Backyard Band, and the 2019 edition featuring singers Raheem Devaughn and Wes Ellington Felton, the tours are amplified by the fact that they are open to the community as well. Much like the classes and cultural activities that ACAS provides for the D.M.V area, it should come as no surprise that the “Year of Return” grew out of a grassroots organization like ACAS.
Nestled in the heart of the Mount Rainier Arts district, ACAS offers a number of African Dance and drumming classes, fitness classes, intensives, workshops, various pop ups and a slew of resources for the community. At the epicenter of a creative exchange with Ghana, ACAS also offers yearly tours to Ghana in the form of the “Back2Africa” movement. Partnering with a number of different entities to make tour happen, it was the Ghana Tourism Authority itself that officially proclaimed this as the “Year Of Return” on a global scale.
With ACAS establishing important relationships prior to the “Year of Return,” movement being fully established, the possibilities evolved when the idea was brought to the Ghana Commission of Tourism and Culture, and after the president of Ghana, Nana Akufo Addo gave his seal of approval, it took off.
“It all started with Birthright” said Sumbry, referring to an annual celebration of African dance and drumming that his organization produces each year. “It became more than an event, but a portal of discovery, and over time it evolved into the tours and a partnership with African Ancestry so that when everything lined up, we had a full package ready for the people.”
The passing of the H.R. 1242 was a catalyst for a number of important exchanges and activities that have taken place or will take place throughout the year. Members of the Congressional Black Caucus, along with Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi, went to Ghana last week. In addition, there is the “Jamestown-Jamestown Tour” which is focused on the NAACP, and will travel from Jamestown, Virginia, to Jamestown,Ghana this August. Taking place on the actual date that the first ships carrying human cargo arrived, this tour like all of the tours that will happen this year, Is meant to honor those whose lives were irrevocably changed, and to welcome their descendants back to their continent of origin, forever changed but always connected.
Source: afro.com
2019 World Tourism Day to be launched in Kumasi
The Ghana Tourism Authority will on Wednesday, August 14, 2019, launch the 2019 World Tourism Day celebration in Kumasi.
This year’s UNWTO World Tourism Day celebration is under the theme ‘Tourism and Jobs: A better future for all’ will be held in Kumasi, with many activities.
Some of the activities include Exhibition highlighting the theme, durbar, health walk, cycling competition, #EatGhana Food bazar and the annual Fun & Fly Paragliding Festival.
Last year, India was chosen to be the host country to celebrate World Tourism Day 2019. The event seeks to address global challenges outlined in the United Nations Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and highlight the contribution the tourism sector can make in reaching these goals.
Every year, UNWTO invites people of all ages and backgrounds to hold and take part in WTD celebrations in their respective countries or holiday destinations.
About World Tourism Day
United Nations World Tourism Organization begun The World Tourism Day celebration in the year 1980.
Celebrated every September 27 around the world, the purpose of World Tourism Day is to foster awareness among the international community on the importance of tourism and its social, cultural, political and economic value.
Ghana hosted the global community for the international celebration for the first time in 2009.
Year of Return: Over 250 to visit Ghana for historic Jamestown to Jamestown Homecoming
Since President Nana Akufo Addo declared 2019 the ‘Year of Return’ inviting all people from the diaspora to visit Ghana, thousands have already come with lots planning return visits.
The Year of Return Secretariat and the Adinkra Group are preparing to receive another over 250 people for this year’s ‘Jamestown to Jamestown’ event. The group will begin their tour on August 18, 2019, in Washington DC with a bus ride to Jamestown Virginia (Colonial National Park) for a prayer vigil and candle lighting ceremony marking the 400 year anniversary of the first enslaved Africans arrival and honouring the memory of all those stolen from Africa over 400 years ago.
They would then continue to tour the National Museum of African American History and Culture designed by Ghanian architect Sir David Adjaye on the National Mall before departing for Ghana.
The “Year of Return, Ghana 2019”is a major landmark spiritual and birth-right journey inviting the Global African family, home and abroad, to mark this anniversary. As an official event of the Year of Return, Jamestown to Jamestownis a spiritual, historical and reconciliatory journey in commemoration of the 400 year anniversary. Some highlights of the journey for the participants include:
-
Ancestral Healing Ceremony at Jamestown, Accra
-
Business, Investment & Development Summit
-
Black Tie Gala
-
AfricanAncestry.com DNA Reveal Ceremony
-
Cape Coast and Elmina Castle Visit
-
Assin Manso Last Bath Slave River
-
Akwasidae Festival @ Manhyia Palace in Kumasi
The Jamestown to Jamestown event is one of the certified ‘Year of Return’ events set as a spiritual, historical, and reconciliatory journey from August 18 – 28, 2019 from Jamestown, Virginia to Jamestown, Accra to commemorate the 400 year anniversary with a week-long series of events during the Year of Return, Ghana 2019.
‘The Year of Return’: 5 Ghanaian artists sound off on Pan-African solidarity
The document explores the marketing initiative bringing celebrities, world leaders, and diaspora artists back to West Africa.
In 1960 Ghanian politician and revolutionary Kwame Nkrumah became the first president of the newly independent Republic of Ghana. After centuries of living under the strict confines of British colonial rule, the people of Ghana were free to dictate visions of their own future under the direction of local leaders like Nkrumah who had an understanding of the people’s needs and desires. Nkrumah’s vision for the country was greatly informed by his commitment to promoting Pan-Africanism, an idea and movement that encourages all people of African descent to unite and create stronger bonds. As one of the godfathers of Pan-Africanism, Nkrumah believed that “we must find an African solution to our problems, and that this can only be found in African unity.”
Decades after his presidential term, the spirit of Pan-Africanism continues to thrive in Ghana. Just last year, the country hosted the All African People’s Conference, an event that celebrated the 60th anniversary of the groundbreaking conference of the same name that was initially hosted by Nkrumah in 1958 in Accra and brought out Pan-African leaders from around the world. Last year also saw an influx of Black American celebrities partying with local residents and exploring the dungeons of the Cape Coast during the December holiday festivities. Actor Boris Kodjoe led the group in honour of the nation’s Full Circle Festival, which was attended by Black-ish actor Anthony Anderson, musician Diggy Simons, and over a dozen other influencers and celebrities.
Ghana’s latest and most ambitious push for Pan-Africanism is 2019’s “The Year of Return”, an initiative that was introduced last year by President Nana Akufo-Addo. The Year of Return marks 400 years since the first enslaved Africans were taken from West Africa to mainland America, where the first recorded slave ship arrived in Virginia in August 1619. According to CNN, an estimated 75% of slave dungeons in West Africa were in Ghana, meaning that for the millions of Africans that were captured, these dungeons represented their last memories of home. In remembrance of this moment in history, the government and tourism board have sent out a global call for visitors from around the diaspora to visit the nation and discover the beauty and opportunities that come with African unity and connecting with not only Ghanaians but people from all African nations.
Document Journal spoke with five Ghanian artists about why it’s important for the African Diaspora to visit Ghana and why the Year of Return is a positive step towards uniting the Global African community.
Akosua Afriyie-Kumi, Founder A A K S
“There is a need for more professionals engaging in businesses in Africa and the Diaspora can certainly help with this, particularity the returnees working for multinational organizations outside of Africa. We can certainly do with their international experience to bridge the skills gap in Africa. Generally, perceptions of Africa has changed over the years and people want to be involved and help build Africa that we all want or foresee. I am also a returnee, I lived in Ghana while growing up; I left to the United Kingdom when I was a teenager to study and after many years, I returned with my acquired skill sets to start my fashion brand AAKS. In all, I couldn’t have dreamed of the best job in the world and working in Ghana while employing over 20 people!”
Prince Gyasi, Visual Artist
“It’s always important for Africans to return to their roots and learn more about their culture. Their return contributes to the socio-economic growth of Africa. Through innovation, entrepreneurs in the diaspora and organisations are widening spaces in the continent for African development and growth. August 2019, marks 400 years since the first enslaved African arrived in Jamestown Virginia. This is a great moment for Africans in the Diaspora to see the Year of Return as not just an occasion but also as a tool which could be used to help change the narrative. This moment is very important for every African to remember the days our forefathers and mothers were forced to go through the Doors of No Return. Celebrating this special occasion with the idea that, some celebrities from Hollywood will be visiting and some returning to Africa is great but my question is Are they coming here to negotiate and engage with the locals as well? I guess we have to wait and see.”
Kwame Akoto, Sculptor
“I am doing something for the year of return. I launched Nkyimkyim Za; a festival on creative Communal labour at Ada on the 26th of January this year. The event is also an opportunity for other creative and well-wishers to collaborate and or contribute to my Nkyimkyim Installation at Ada, Ghana. I think Africans in the diaspora returning to the Mother continent (Africa) is significant and worth celebrating. It marks an important conscious effort by Africans to get together to not only commemorate some of our painful experiences but to do something about them.”
Joshua Kissi, Creative Entrepreneur
“When people hear return to Africa, they feel like it’s only reserved for people who are very conscious of their roots and have a hotep type of mindset. But it’s like no, that is a right granted towards everybody, not because you have a higher consciousness, not because you have a higher education or higher tax bracket. At home, everybody’s welcome and I think that’s an important part that people need to think about when they’re thinking about traveling back. It also helps them kind of erase the preconceived notions that they have about what life is like in Africa. I think it’s really important to get to know a piece of you that you probably haven’t really thought through and even if you have it’s great for you to embark on a journey.”
Leonie Badger, Founder Studio Badge
“I think that in many ways, we are all searching for a place that we can call home. The beauty of life is that when you chance upon that place, it resonates with you deep in your soul and you feel it. I have met so many people from the diaspora that came to Ghana looking to explore and have a good time but ended up connecting so much with the vibrancy and warmth of our people, and the richness of our culture and heritage that it immediately felt like home. Finding a home in this way is such a beautiful experience and it feeds into expanding your understanding of yourself as a significant piece in a whole. If you’re on the fence about making the journey, do your heart a favour and do it.”
Source: Document Journal
2019 Ghana World Music Festival with Deborah Cox slated for August 2-4 at Fantasy Dome
The year 2019 marks 400 years since the first enslaved Africans arrived in Jamestown Virginia. Taking this as a milestone to celebrate African resilience and also call African in the diaspora home, the Year of Return Steering committee supported by Joy Prime and Hitz 103.9 FM, brings to you the Ghana World Music Festival.
This event, expected to take place on August 3rd and 4th at the Fantasy Dome in La, Accra will treat patrons to a weekend of incredible global music from 7pm each day.
The first annual Ghana World Music Festival is a celebration of the power of the Ghanaian music and the sounds of the diaspora. Music is more than entertainment, its empowerment and unifier of people, helped birth Ghana World Music Festival.
The festival will feature music and artistes from Ghana, across the African Continent, the Caribbean and the US.
A rich myriad of genres will be on display from Jazz, R&B, Reggae, Highlife and Afrobeat. The festival will serve as an anchor event to Panafest 2019 while continuing to support the mission of the Year of Return Initiative.
On the bill to perform is Ghanaian reggae and dancehall artiste, Samini; Jamaican reggae band, Third World; Canadian Grammy award-winning RnB songstress, Deborah Cox; Jamaican Jazz and reggae artiste, Ernie Smith; Jazz artiste, Irvin Mayfield and many more.
Grab your early bird ticket for GH₵ 50 now till Thursday, August 1.
Regular GH₵ 80, VIP GH₵ 150 and VVIP GH₵ 450.
Ticket outlets:
PINKBURRY ……….Labone, Spintex, East Legon
NYONYO ESSENTIALS…..American house, East Legon
MY CELLPHONE REPAIRS…..A&C Mall, East Legon
NALLEM CLOTHING……Accra Mall, West Hills Mall, Osu Mall, Junction Mall, Achimota Retail Centre.
Log onto http://ghanawmf.com/ for more details.
2019 Ghana World Music Festival Is A Celebration Of The Music Of Our Diaspora
The first annual Ghana World Music Festival 2019 is a celebration of the power of the Ghanaian music and the sounds of the diaspora. Music is more than entertainment, its empowerment and unifier of people and with this spirit, the Ghana World Music Festival was conceived.
The festival will feature music and artists from Ghana, across the African Continent, the Caribbean and the US. A rich myriad of genres will be on display from Jazz, R&B, Reggae, Highlife and Afrobeat. The festival will serve as an anchor event to Panafest 2019 while continuing to support the mission of the Year of Return Initiative.
New York attorneys add colour to ‘Year of Return’
The Year of Return agenda, instituted to commemorate the 400th anniversary of the trans-Atlantic slave trade, is swiftly gaining traction in the diaspora as intended.
Visiting Ghana to know more about their roots, was Boris Kodjo, Michael Jai White, Anthony Anderson, Diggy Simmons and many others.
Recently, joining the group of diasporans to learn about their roots, is the Association of Black Woman Attorneys (ABWA), New York.
A large delegation of ABWA was on a week-long retreat themed “Reinforcing Bonds and Connecting with the Diaspora.” But the visit was rendered more significant as it coincided with the ‘Year of Return’ celebrations.
The African-American lawyers, hosted by the Institute of International Affairs, spent their week in Ghana celebrating African Heritage.
The team visited the two historical slave castles in Cape Coast and Elmina and also paid a courtesy call on Ghana’s Attorney-General, Gloria Akuffo.
“It is an honour to be able to have undertaken this trip. For many members of ABWA, this is a pilgrimage to connect with our heritage,’ president of ABWA, Tanya Blocker, had said.
She noted Ghana has a deep heritage of lawyers rising far in the legal profession, with many ladies ascending to the high offices of Attorney-General and Chief Justice and her team was excited to bond and build connections with these attorneys.
Ghana’s Attorney-General, Gloria Akuffo, admitted though Ghana had made strides with the female attorneys there is much more that needs to be done.
“I applaud the initiative of ABWA, sisterhood in hopes of advancement is the way to go. I can proudly say that my office is now a nest for women attorneys in Ghana and as such my office and I are ready to collaborate with ABWA in pursuing their goals,” she added.
The tour ended with notes of appreciation from ABWA to GhIIA.org for their support.
Mr Cherk Klutse, of the institute, reiterated the institute’s pride that ABWA chose Ghana and expressed hope for further collaboration with ABWA for the institutes Diaspora and Internal Law programs.
Source: Myjoyonline