Under the auspices of the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, the National Chocolate Week will be organized from 3rd February to 14th February 2025. The event is celebrated to promote the consumption of chocolate and highlight chocolate as a healthy product.

The National Chocolate Day Celebration was instituted in 2005 to coincide with Valentine’s Day which falls on 14th February every year to boost the domestic consumption of Ghanaian chocolate and other cocoa-based products. In 2021, COCOBOD and GTA extended the day’s celebration to a week-long event, which has been organized successfully since then.

The Black Star experience embodies Ghana’s rich cultural heritage, with cocoa at its heart as a symbol of national pride and economic strength. As we celebrate Chocolate Week, we honour the farmers who cultivate this prestigious crop, transforming it into the sweet delight that brings joy to millions worldwide. The Black Star shines brightly through Ghana’s cocoa, a testament to our nation’s resilience, innovation, and commitment to producing some of the world’s finest chocolate.

Regional offices of the Ghana Tourism Authority will participate in the National Chocolate Week by visiting the Pediatric Units of Regional Hospitals on 14th February 2025.
The activities for this year include.

• Media Engagement and Sensitization on 3^rd – 14^th February 2025 to sensitize the general public about the health benefits of chocolate and other cocoa-based products.
• Melting moment on 13^th February 2025 – A chocolate drink stand will be mounted at the reception of the Ghana Tourism Authority, Head Office.
• Float and Chocolate feast on 14^th February 2025 through the principal streets of Accra, which will end with a durbar for stakeholders at the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park.
• Chocolate experience on 14^th February 2025. Activation at the Kotoka International Airport to sensitize the public on the health and nutritional benefits of chocolate and distribute bar chocolate to passengers at the arrival hall.
• Hotel and Restaurant Participation: Throughout the Chocolate Week, hotels and restaurants across Ghana are encouraged to incorporate chocolate into their menus, offering special chocolate-themed dishes and desserts. On 14th February, these establishments are also urged to distribute complimentary chocolate to patrons as a symbol of love.

The Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) today welcomed Mrs. Maame Efua Houadjeto as the New Chief Executive Officer of the organisation.

Mrs. Houadjeto succeeds Mr. Akwasi Agyeman who has served as CEO for the past 8 years. Mr. Agyeman who stepped down recently, was on hand to welcome her and introduce her to staff.

During the meeting, Mrs. Houadjeto expressed her deep gratitude for the warm reception, stating that she was honored to lead the GTA. She emphasized her commitment to promoting Ghana’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty, urging management and staff to work collaboratively as a team to drive the growth and development of the tourism industry in Ghana.

Notably, Mrs. Houadjeto is the second female CEO of the GTA since its establishment as the Ghana Tourist Board (GTB) in 1973, and the first female CEO since the the then Ghana Tourism Board (GTA) became an Authority under the Tourism Act, 2011 (Act 817).

The staff and management congratulated her and welcomed her to their fold.

Launched in 2019 as part of the landmark ‘Year of Return’, December in GH has become a cornerstone of Ghana’s cultural and tourism scene, attracting locals and visitors from all over the world who are eager to experience our rich heritage, arts, and entertainment.

This year’s festive season offers a variety of activities designed to give a true taste of Ghanaian culture while fostering connections within local communities. The Ghana Tourism Authority and event organizers have worked tirelessly to ensure that December in GH continues to achieve new levels of excitement. CEO Akwasi Agyeman stated, “Each event is an opportunity for collaboration, inspiration, and connection as we celebrate our rich and diverse Ghanaian culture with the rest of the world. These events set the stage for an even more impactful year ahead.”

According to the 2023 Tourism Report, visitor numbers more than doubled in 2022, showcasing a remarkable 47% growth. In 2023, Ghana welcomed 1,148,002 arrivals, reflecting a 25% rise from the previous year and surpassing pre-COVID figures by 2%. This indicates a vibrant recovery for Ghana’s tourism sector, with a target of 1.3 million visitors this year.

The December in GH festivities not only elevate the tourism experience but also create positive economic impacts, particularly for SMEs. These dynamic events drive demand for a range of services and goods, benefiting small business owners and communities.

Beyond economic growth, December in GH plays a crucial role in celebrating and preserving Ghana’s rich culture. For more details about the exciting events lined up, visit www.decemberingh.com. Stay updated on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, TikTok, and Reels.

Let’s come together to celebrate the magic of December in GH!

Click Here To Download Calendar

The visa waiver is designed to make entry into Ghana simpler, allowing travelers to experience the country’s rich culture, vibrant festivals, and the exciting events in the December in GH calendar. The Government of Ghana aims to attract a significant number of visitors, enhancing the tourism sector and solidifying Ghana’s status as a top global destination for visitors and investors.

On November 28, 2024, Hon. Kwaku Ofori Asiamah, Minister of Transport, issued a directive to all airlines to promptly update their systems to reflect this new policy. This initiative is in line with the “Beyond the Return” vision, strengthening Ghana’s relationship with the global African community and promoting cultural exchange and economic growth. The pre-approval waiver underscores Ghana’s dedication to welcoming the African diaspora and international visitors, providing a more accessible travel experience.

Akwasi Agyeman, CEO of the Ghana Tourism Authority, stresses the importance of this new visa regime, urging travelers to take advantage of this unique opportunity and immerse themselves in the December in GH celebrations.

The December in GH campaign presents a dynamic calendar of events officially endorsed by the Ghana Tourism Authority and the Beyond the Return Steering Committee, aimed at drawing travelers who plan their visits around these events.

Since its initiation in 2019, December in GH has established Ghana as a must-visit holiday destination, attracting global travelers eager to engage with the nation’s rich arts and culture. This campaign acts as a rallying point for the African family worldwide, inviting reconnections like never before.

For more information about the December in GH initiative, visit our official website at www.decemberingh.com.

The CEO of GTA, Mr. Akwasi Agyeman, stated that Feast Ghana aims to showcase and elevate Ghana’s local cuisine and cultural traditions, supporting the GTA’s initiative of “See Ghana, Eat Ghana, Wear Ghana, Feel Ghana” which was launched in 2017.

Feast Ghana will feature a rich array of Ashanti cuisine from all the paramouncies, traditional dishes, and culinary demos that honour Asanteman’s vast cultural heritage. The event will also highlight local produce and explore its journey from farm to table, providing attendees with a comprehensive taste of food culture.

Issued by the Corporate Affairs Department

This year marks the 6th edition of the campaign and the announcement comes earlier than previous years as the authority and event organisers anticipate an increase in visitors to Ghana during the holiday season. The earlier call and publication will allow Visitors ample time to plan their trip and to coordinate the activities and festivals they wish to include in their itineraries for December.

Since 2019, Ghana has led the charge in changing the narrative about the African experience and has solidified the country as the top holiday destination on the continent through ‘December in GH’  and the return initiatives. ‘December in Gh’ has been a strong driver of tourism, economic impact, and branding Ghana as the “Centre of the World”.

‘December in GH’ is coordinated by the Ghana Tourism Authority and the Beyond the Return (BTR) Secretariat under the auspices of the National Steering Committee and invites all interested event organisers seeking to have their programs endorsed as an official event for December in GH to submit a formal proposal to the team.  Proposals should be for events taking place from November 15, 2024 through January 15, 2025. The office is encouraging event organizers to create events that would bring together the global African diaspora, continental Africans, and the local Ghanaian community.

Annabelle McKenzie, Director of the Beyond the Return Secretariat said “Ghana has seen tremendous growth in tourism, bridging the gap between Ghana and the historical diaspora, and unifying Africans due to the “Year of Return” and Beyond the Return.” The secretariat is well prepared for the 6th year of ‘December in Gh’ and is excited to work with event organisers and key stakeholders.”

The CEO of Ghana Tourism Authority, Akwasi Agyeman urges  Event Organizers to partner with the authority and the steering committee to ” unlock the potential of Ghana as a leisure destination and turn dreams into lasting legacies. Together, let’s shape the future of travel and make Ghana’s December, one unforgettable experience”

All proposals must be submitted before Tuesday, April 30, 2024, using the official form at this link: https://forms.gle/tJgr7nfiXkbKJWbU7. The form can also be found on the Beyond the Return website at: www.beyondthereturngh.com

‘Beyond the Return’ is a ten-year initiative with the theme ‘A Decade of African Renaissance.’ and a foundation of seven pillars.  Each pillar is significant in the mission of continued engagement with the African diaspora, continental Africans and Ghanaians.  

The seven pillars are as follows: Experience Ghana, Celebrate Ghana, Give Back Ghana, Invest in Ghana, Brand Ghana, Diaspora Pathways to Ghana and Promote Pan African Heritage and Innovation. All event organizers must consider how their event aligns with at least one of the foundational pillars.

More information about the Beyond the Return initiative can be found on the website www.beyondthereturngh.com.

Information on Ghana Tourism Authority can be found at www.ghana.travel.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

GHANA TO HOST KUSI IDEAS FESTIVAL

The Ghana Tourism Authority, under the auspices of the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, in partnership with the Nations Media Group are organising the 3rd edition of the Kusi Ideas Festival on Monday the 10th – 11th December, 2021 at the Accra International Conference Centre, AICC.

This year’s conference, which will be a hybrid and the in-person event is under the theme; ‘HOW AFRICA TRANSFORMS AFTER THE VIRUS’, and sub-themed; ‘BEYOND THE RETURN: AFRICAN DIASPORA AND NEW POSSIBILITIES.

The Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Tourism Authority, Mr. Akwasi Agyeman, said the Kusi Ideas Festival has come at the right time to cement Ghana’s reputation as a leading business tourism destination. “We have embarked on a journey to attract meetings, conferences, and events into Ghana and this partnership with NMG is in the right direction “

This year’s Kusi Ideas Festival will be opened by the President of the Republic of Ghana, H.E Nàna Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo. Other Presidents billed to speak are President Paul Kagame of Rwanda and President Yoweri Museveni of Uganda. Several business and political leaders across Africa are billed to attend.
Other sub-themes are;

• Taking forward the lessons learned from leading during the pandemic
• Technology, innovation, and creating the most African wins
• Opening borders and building back tourism among others.

Kusi Ideas Festival was started three years ago by the Nation Media Group as a Pan-African platform to examine the African continent’s place in the world.

ISSUED BY THE CORPORATE AFFAIRS DEPARTMENT OF THE GHANA TOURISM AUTHORITY.

What many people don’t know is that the Niagara Movement, which was an organization of black intellectuals, is seen as the predecessor of the NAACP.  The Niagara Movement included 29 African Americans who had a secret meeting in 1905 in Fort Erie, Ontario Canada (close to Niagara Falls). Where they created a manifesto that was focused on finding ways to abolish racial discrimination.  Many of the members of the Niagara Movement, were subsequently some of the founders of the NAACP. 

One of the most notable founding members of the NAACP, was W.E.B. DuBois, who went on to become one of the most important historical figures in the Pan Africanist movement.  President Kwame Nkrumah convinced DuBois to visit Ghana in 1960 and he eventually moved and became a Ghanaian citizen. He died in Ghana and was buried there, his grave being one of the most visited sites in the country. 

Other founding members of the NAACP included Ida B. Wells-Barnett, Mary Church Terrell and a group of white liberals who also wanted racial justice; Mary White Ovington, Oswald Garrison, William English Walling and Dr. Henry Moscowitz.

Throughout history, the NAACP has fought against the many injustices that faced Black people including, voting rights, segregation, racial violence, discrimination in employment opportunities, anti-lynching, education and many more of the constitutional rights they were being denied. 

The NAACP has also been at the fore when it comes to important litigation cases.  They established the NAACP Legal Defense & Education Fund in 1939 and have been successful in legal battles that have led to changes in the legal system including the 1954 school segregation ruling in Topeka. 

During the 1980s, the NAACP showed their solidarity for Black South Africans when they spoke publicly against the Apartheid system, which was reminiscent of the experiences African Americans also had in the United States.   

Derrick Johnson currently serves as the 19th President of the NAACP.  He has led the organization with being on the frontlines of many current pressing issues of the African American community. In 2019, he also partnered with the Jamestown to Jamestown project that marked the 400 year anniversary of the documented ship of enslaved Africans that arrived in the U.S. It was a collaboration with the ‘Year of Return’ and The Adinkra Group and brought over 250 African Americans on a life-changing journey to Ghana. It was a historic trip as a Grand Durbar was held in their honour and the President of the Republic of Ghana, Nana Akufo-Addo, was in attendance and gave a special warm welcome to all the African Americans by taking a moment to shake everyone’s hand.  “We want to thank you for the open arms that you have received us with. We are proud to be African, we are proud to be a part of this great celebration. We are proud to be with you today,” Derrick Johnson said when addressing the crowd at the Grand Durbar in Jamestown, Accra.

The NAACP continues to play an important role in the lives of the African American community.  They are actively involved in federal advocacy, justice, education, supporting economic opportunities, health and diversity in America. 

As an endeavour to showcase the rich Ghanaian culture and promote local businesses, the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC), in partnership with the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA), and GUBA is organising ‘A Taste of Ghana: Rock Your African Print’, on the 28^th of December 2020, at the Accra Polo Club.

A Taste of Ghana is a unique event that aims to project the beauty of Ghanaian culture and heritage. Bringing together Ghanaians and the African Diaspora, the event will primarily foster an informal networking session for all attendees, and to also encourage the support and patronage of Made in Ghana products.

The array of activities for the days’ event will include live music sessions, fashion shows and performances, while vendors will also be on site showcasing various authentic and delicious Ghanaian dishes, local drinks, art, and fashion items.

Touching on the significance of the event, CEO of Ghana Investment Promotion Centre, Mr Yofi Grant said “Ghana has always been recognised as a country with rich cultural heritage and gained even more traction following the recent year of return initiative which welcomed lots of our people within the diaspora. I therefore look forward to this event creating avenues to harness opportunities between indigenes and diasporas for the benefit of the nation “.

Buttressing the comments of Mr Grant, the CEO of Ghana Tourism Authority, Mr Akwasi Agyeman added that “beyond the fun and rich cultural experience, I believe we can leverage such events to continuously promote tourism in Ghana and create business opportunities for Ghanaians”.

Keeping with the celebration of Ghanaian culture, and the obvious title of the event, patrons are encouraged to come “Rocking an African Print.

The event is scheduled for 2pm to 10pm and patrons can look forward to an interesting time with friend and family while experiencing and capturing the sights, feels, sounds and tastes of Ghana.

A Taste of Ghana is a Beyond the Return Initiative, sponsored by Absa Bank Ghana,  Ghana Export Promotion Authority and Ghana EXIM bank. It is also partnered by The BridgeZone and powered by E-volution.

For enquiries, tickets, and information, visit https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/133744464293

—

About Grow, Unite, Build, Africa

GUBA Enterprise is a social enterprise organisation dedicated to the advancement of diaspora Africans and Africans back home through various socio – economic programs and initiatives.

The organisation has various brand activities namely: GUBA Awards, GUBA Foundation, GUBA Trade Expo, GUBA Careers, GUBA Diaspora Card, GUBA Tours and Rock Your African Print.

Contact: Claudia Andrews

Email: claudia@gubaawards.co.uk

About Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC)

The Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC) is a Government agency, responsible to encourage and promote investments in Ghana, to provide for the creation of an attractive incentive framework and a transparent, predictable, and facilitating environment for investments in Ghana.

About Ghana Tourism Authority

The Ghana Tourism Authority is the public service agency in charge of regulating tourism in Ghana through marketing and promotion, licensing and classification of tourism facilities and services, research, and development.

Martin, travelled to Ghana last year, in December, during the Year of Return for a 10-day trip.  He travelled with a production team with intentions of documenting his experiences in the country.  This was his first time in Ghana since 2008 and he was excited to see how much had changed in Ghana and to share with his audience.  

When he arrived in Ghana, he was greeted both by the Year of Return Secretariat and The God Box Foundation, who played host to him while he was in the country.  Martin said he was very interested in capturing stories not only about the ‘Year of Return’, but he also wanted to capture the relationships between Ghanaians and the diaspora communities.  He said “It’s important to break down any communication barriers between our communities because the mindset needs a shift.”  He said that we need to look at how we can help one another instead of operating in a state of seeing our differences.  

Martin travelled to different parts of Ghana and experienced the culture, food and history in the country.  It was important for him to create an authentic documentary that he could share with his audience.  He recently announced that he will be airing a 10-part series about his trip to Ghana last year.  The announcement was made on his social media stating that the series would air starting on December 18, 2020.  

He was invited to attend the Breakfast Meeting at Kempinski on 27th December 2019, where President Nana Akufo Addo announced the plans for ‘Beyond the Return’ to be the follow-up after Year of Return.  After the announcement, Martin said that the ‘Year of Return’ is really significant and goes beyond the story of slave dungeons. “I really think it’s important for African Americans to know the history of this country, and know the history of other African countries, to really understand and tell their story.” 

Tune in to ‘Roland Martin Unfiltered’ from 28th December 2020 to watch his coverage on Ghana. 

By: Ivy Prosper