FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – 2024 DIASPORAN BUSINESS MENTORING ROUNDTABLE

Adubea & Associates and On Our Watch Global LLC are proud to announce their groundbreaking event: 2024 DIASPORAN BUSINESS MENTORING ROUNDTABLE. This innovative platform brings together seasoned business experts and Diasporan investors, established and aspiring entrepreneurs for a day of mentoring, networking and consultations.

The Diasporan Business Mentoring Roundtable seeks to bridge the gap between Diasporan entrepreneurs and the information, resources and network required to succeed. This event provides a unique opportunity for entrepreneurs to connect with industry experts, share experiences and gain valuable insights. Participants shall gain relevant mentoring on the 10 Biggest Mistakes Diasporans Make when Building a Business in Ghana plus experts’ insights on the Agribusiness/Agriculture, Tourism/Hospitality, Digital Technology and Real Estate industries in Ghana.

Event Details: 

Payment Details:  

• Participants in Ghana may pay via MOMO to (+233) 544 775 660 (Adubea Charlotte  Ayisi). Payment must include transaction charge from service provider. 
• Participants paying from abroad may pay to the same number, (+233) 544 775 660  (Adubea Charlotte Ayisi) using any of the following global mobile money service providers: QuickPay, Pay Angel, SendWave, Money Gram or any other. Payment must include transaction charge from service provider. 
• After payment, Whatsapp us on the same number (+233) 544775660, your full  name and mobile money transaction ID to enable us send you a receipt. 
• After Payment: Click link to register after payment:  https://forms.gle/bXpMfd7J6c5tZoJR8

Don’t miss this opportunity to transform your dream business in Ghana and connect with like-minded entrepreneurs. Register now and join the conversation!

Quote from Organizers
“The Diasporan Business Mentoring Roundtable is more than just an event- it’s a movement! We’re committed to creating an ecosystem that supports Diasporans to build successful businesses in Ghana.” – Adubea Afua Ayisi and Nannette Yaa Achia Atuahene

Contact Information:
Email: adubea.associates9@gmail.com, onourwatchglobal@gmail.com
Phone: +233 544 510 427, +1 (510) 978 5270
Website: www.adubeaassociates.com

Social media links:

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Diasporans.ConsultingGH
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/adubea.associates/
• Instagram: https://instagram.com/adubeaandassociates?igshid=MmU2YjMzNjRIOQ==
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/onourwatchglobal?igsh=MXJid2J5ZmlwdXFsdA==

Issued by: Adubea & Associates and On Our Watch Global LLC

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

GTA SET TO UNVEIL EXCITING DECEMBER IN GH 2024 EVENTS

Accra, August 19, 2024 — The Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) is set to reveal the highly anticipated calendar for December in GH 2024. The unveiling will take place at the Castle Gardens in Osu, Accra, on Friday, August 23, 2024.

Launched in 2019 as part of ‘The Year of Return,’ December in GH has become a cultural and tourism cornerstone. Visitors from around the world eagerly immerse themselves in our heritage, arts, and entertainment scene. This year’s events promise an extraordinary experience, allowing exploration of Ghana’s beauty while fostering connections with local communities throughout the festive season.

The collaborative efforts between the GTA and event organizers have transformed December in GH into a phenomenal success story. According to the 2023 Tourism Report, these activities enhance the tourism and hospitality value chain, benefiting Small and Medium Scale Enterprises (SMEs). Increased hotel occupancy, vibrant restaurant activity, transportation utilization, and higher sales for local artisans empower business owners, creatives, and entrepreneurs. Moreover, these events contribute to preserving and promoting Ghana’s rich cultural heritage.

The launch is under the auspices of the Beyond the Return Steering Committee and the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture.  For comprehensive event details, visit www.decemberingh.com. Stay connected through our social media channels: follow the Ghana Tourism Authority and Beyond the Return on Instagram, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and TikTok for the latest updates and information.

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.

 ACCRA, GHANA –The highly anticipated final calendar for December in GH 2023 events has been announced today. Presented by the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) and the Beyond the Return Secretariat (BTR), the calendar highlights several events across the length and breadth of the country which bring numerous benefits to the entire tourism and creative arts  ecosystem.

Since its launch in 2019 by GTA as part of The Year of Return, December in GH has become a major highlight on Ghana’s cultural and tourism calendar, attracting visitors from around the world who are eager to experience the nation’s vibrant heritage , arts and entertainment scene. This year’s calendar promises an even more spectacular showcase, offering a platform to explore Ghana and connect with several local communities  during the festive season. The collaboration between the Ghana Tourism Authority and event organizers is instrumental in making December in GH a resounding success each year.

Mr. Akwasi Agyeman, CEO of the Ghana Tourism Authority, expressed his excitement and gratitude for the unveiling of the December in GH calendar, stating, “We are thrilled to present the final calendar for December in GH 2023. This year’s events promise to showcase the best of Ghana’s culture, music, heritage, and entertainment scene. We extend our gratitude to all event organizers for their support in partnering with the Authority to make  this a truly memorable and impactful celebration.”

Ms. Annabelle McKenzie, Director of the Beyond the Return Secretariat, shared her enthusiasm,  saying, “The unveiling of the December in GH calendar marks the culmination of months of careful curation and collaboration. We are proud to offer an unforgettable experience that fosters deeper connections within the global African diaspora and our local Ghanaian community.”

According to data from the Ghana Tourism Authority,  December in GH activities  contribute significantly to the tourism value chain and ecosystem, creating a positive impact on various sectors especially for SMEs. The events generate increased tourism demand, leading to higher hotel occupancy rates, restaurant visits, transportation usage, and local artisan sales. This surge in economic activity benefits business owners, creatives, and entrepreneurs, as well as the local communities . Moreover, the December activities contribute to the preservation and promotion of Ghana’s rich cultural heritage. 

Detailed information about the events listed in the final ccalendar can be found on www.decemberingh.com, and will be continuously promoted on social media platforms and official websites. We encourage everyone to follow Ghana Tourism Authority and Beyond the Return on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, TikTok,  for updates and further details.

About Ghana Tourism Authority & Beyond the Return

The Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA), operating under the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture, plays a vital role in promoting, marketing, regulating, and licensing tourism in Ghana. GTA is also the overseeing body for the Beyond the Return Secretariat. Beyond the Return is an initiative that seeks to deepen connections between Ghana and the global African diaspora, focusing on cultural, educational, economic, and social exchanges.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – Ghana Police Headquarters Collaborates with Tourism Authority and Beyond the Return Secretariat to Ensure Safety and Security during December in GH Festivities

ACCRA, GHANA – [November 2, 2023] – The Ghana Police Headquarters recently hosted a crucial meeting with the Ghana Tourism Authority, Beyond the Return Secretariat, and endorsed event organizers to discuss safety and security measures for the upcoming December in GH celebrations. Led by the esteemed Inspector General of Police, Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, the session aimed to foster collaboration and highlight the importance of unity in creating unforgettable and secure cultural festivities.

With December in GH events gaining momentum and attracting both domestic and international visitors, ensuring safety and security is paramount. The Ghana Police Headquarters recognizes the significance of these celebrations for promoting tourism and showcasing Ghanaian heritage to the world. Commissioner of Police, Christian Tetteh Yohuno said they have done several stakeholder engagements over the years but this was the first of its kind to have a meeting dedicated to speaking with event organisers about the safety and security of Ghana during the holiday season. “As you prepare to organise your events, this is an opportunity to meet our commanders with Ghana Police,” he said while noting they were all ready to take suggestions from all in attendance.

During the meeting, participants engaged in open discussions, sharing insights, expectations and asking questions for this year’s December in GH activities. The Inspector General of Police emphasized the vital role of collaborative efforts in maintaining public safety and urged event organizers to comply with security guidelines to ensure smooth operations.

The CEO of Ghana Tourism Authority thanked the police for opening up to have a meeting with everyone. “We don’t take it lightly that you’ve given us the opportunity to interact with you and share some of the experiences that we have.”

To enhance security measures, the Ghana Police Headquarters will work closely with the Ghana Tourism Authority and Beyond the Return Secretariat, establishing effective communication channels and deploying dedicated security personnel at various event venues. This collaboration aims to address potential challenges, mitigate risks, and ensure the safety and enjoyment of all participants.

The Ghana Tourism Authority is committed to promoting and sustaining the growth of tourism in Ghana, and their partnership with the Ghana Police Headquarters underscores their dedication to a safe and secure environment for visitors and locals alike. Beyond the Return Secretariat, known for its efforts in promoting the initiative, will play a crucial role in ensuring smooth coordination between the various event organizers and authorities for a seamless December in GH experience.

Speaking about the collaboration, Dr. George Akuffo Dampare said he was happy to work hand-in-hand with the Ghana Tourism Authority, Beyond the Return Secretariat, and event organizers to create a safe and secure environment for all December in GH activities. This partnership demonstrates the joint commitment to showcasing the best of Ghanaian culture while ensuring the well-being of Ghanaian citizens and visitors.

Event organizers whose activities have been approved and endorsed for the December in GH festivities expressed their gratitude for the support and guidance provided by the Ghana Police Headquarters. They were also given the floor to ask questions directly to the police department. Some of the major concerns included traffic, poorly lit areas that make people susceptable to crime, and police misconduct.  Robert Klah from Charterhouse Productions said it would be good to work with governmental agencies to map out areas of security concerns due to street lights not functioning, in order to give people a sense of safety at night.

“We are going to make Ghana proud, for the rest of the world to witness about us,” IGP, Dr. Dampare said. He reassured everyone that the police department is committed to security protocols and will collaborate closely with all stakeholders to deliver exceptional standards when it comes to a safe and secure environment.

As we anticipate the December in GH celebrations, let us embrace the unity and vibrancy that makes Ghana such a special destination. The collaborative efforts of the Ghana Police Headquarters, Ghana Tourism Authority, Beyond the Return Secretariat, and event organizers aim to provide a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants, setting the stage for unforgettable experiences in Ghana.

For more information, please contact:

Beyond the Return Secretariat

Accra Tourist Information Centre

+233 24 040 2408

support@beyondthereturngh.com

‘December in GH’ 2023 Calendar of Events Officially Unveiled – ACCRA, GHANA – August 10, 2023

The ‘December in GH’ 2023  first round Calendar of Events has been  officially unveiled today at the Accra Tourist Information Centre by the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) and the Beyond the Return Secretariat (BTR).

Attracting global visitors, ‘December in GH’ has become one of Ghana’s cultural and tourism highlights showcasing the rich heritage, arts, music, culture, and the country’s natural beauty, providing a platform for global African diaspora engagement during the festive season.

The well attended unveiling press briefing  was graced  by members of the Beyond the Return Steering Committee, including Lawyer Kwame Acheamong Boateng, Prof . Esi Sutherland Addy, Akwasi Awuah About, Rabbi Kohain Halevi, Stella Appenteng and Reginald Laryea.  

GTA expects  December 2023;to exceed expectations, solidifying Ghana as a top cultural and tourism destination. CEO of GTA and coordinator of the project,  Mr. Akwasi Agyeman stated that the “ December spirit reflects cultural activities, togetherness, and reconnection with the diaspora”. He stated the authority will hold  discussions with airlines, police, hotels, and restaurants to enhance customer experiences and manage costs for the general public and visitors to Ghana.

The BTR Secretariat’s  Director, Annabelle McKenzie, outlined the vigorous event selection process, with 91 endorsed from 128 proposals aligned with the seven pillars of the BTR initiative.

The diverse events span regions, with an emphasis on spreading ‘December in GH’ throughout Ghana. The initiative fosters networking among Ghanaians and the global community, as highlighted by Prof. Esi Sutherland-Addy, in her brief remarks at the event .

The second round of event submissions have reopened, providing an opportunity for organizers to submit proposals across the country. Submissions will remain open until September 1, 2023, through the link: https://forms.gle/KSs2abYZ76vYk8K87

The ‘December in GH’ calendar events align with BTR’s seven pillars, focusing on Experience, Celebration, Investment, Branding, Giving Back, Diaspora Pathways, and Pan-African Heritage and Innovation.

First launched  in 2019, ‘December in GH’ is an impactful tourism asset, drawing visitors to Ghana during the festive season.

For media inquiries, contact:

Whatsapp: +233 24 040 2408

Email: support@beyondthereturngh.com

Website: www.beyondthereturngh.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – ACCRA, GHANA, June 9, 2022 – The Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) is pleased to announce that 111 event proposals have been submitted for the upcoming December in GH 2023 campaign during the first window which was opened for three weeks and ended on June 5th 2023. The steering committee, will be reviewing the proposals and selecting those that fit with the objectives of Beyond the Return for endorsement.
“This year we began the process of accepting event proposals early to not only give organisers more time to plan, but to also help travellers prepare their itinerary earlier when booking their trips to Ghana,” said Annabelle McKenzie, Director of the BTR Secretariat.

The chosen official events will be announced at the end of June 2023 followed by an official unveiling of the calendar of events. Seventy – five (75) representing 67% of the submissions are news events. According to the CEO of the Ghana Tourism Authority and Coordinator of the Beyond the Return Project, Akwasi Agyeman, “ the increasing number of proposals and the high percentage of new events bodes well for the December in GH campaign. We have been knocking on the doors of event organisers to create new events and bring on board fresh ideas to enhance the brand we have created. Within such a short window, we are delighted with the number of events submitted”.

The next window will be opened in August and a final calendar out doored in September 2023. Event organisers who are interested in having their events endorsed and listed are encouraged to engage with the Beyond the Return Secretariat at the Accra Tourist Information Center, or via email support@beyondthereturngh.com.

The December in GH events calendar has since 2019 become one of the most successful tourism products in Ghana, drawing tens of thousands of tourists during the holiday season.

Beyond the Return is a 10-year initiative with the theme, ‘A decade of African Renaissance’. The Secretariat office operates under the Ghana Tourism Authority. and has a foundation of 7 pillars; Experience Ghana, Celebrate Ghana, Diaspora Pathways to Ghana, Invest in Ghana, Give Back Ghana, Brand Ghana, and Promote Pan African Heritage & Innovation.

For more information on the ‘December in GH’ campaign, please contact the office at support@beyondthereturngh.com.

Learn more on our website www.beyondthereturngh.com

December in GH Call for Event Proposals 2023

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, ACCRA, GHANA, May 16, 2023 – The Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) and the Beyond the Return (BTR) Secretariat, announce the official call for entries for event organisers and promoters to submit their proposals for inclusion in the calendar of events for the ‘December in GH’ campaign for 2023. 

This announcement comes earlier than previous years as the authority anticipates the increase in visitors to Ghana seeking to plan their trip with ample time to coordinate the activities and festivals they wish to include in their itineraries for December. 

Since 2019, ‘December in GH’ has been a strong driver of tourism during the busy December season for travel to Ghana. 

‘December in GH’ is coordinated by the Beyond the Return (BTR) Secretariat 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 1, 2023 through January 10, 2024. The office is encouraging event organizers to create events that would bring together the global African diaspora, continental Africans, and the local Ghanaian community.

According to the CEO of the Authority, Akwasi Agyeman, who doubles as the coordinator of the Beyond The Return project, the process of event endorsement also involves a lot of stakeholder engagements with other agencies of state.  He added ,“We are anticipating a very fruitful and successful campaign this year due to the large number of unsolicited new event proposals that we have already received. The momentum keeps growing,” 

Annabelle McKenzie, Director of the Beyond the Return Secretariat said “We’ve seen more of the diaspora engaging with Ghana through events, business investments and giving back to the community. And with the global spotlight of events like the Global Citizen Festival last year and the recent visit of the U.S. Vice President, it has cast an even bigger spotlight on Ghana.” 

The  first batch of official calendar of events for ‘December in GH’ will be released in the middle of June 2023 after submitted proposals have been reviewed by GTA for endorsement. All proposals must be submitted before Monday June 5, 2023, using the official form at this link: https://forms.gle/JwQ7TbphReMMFfTm6

‘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.visitghana.com.

Beyond exceptional is one way to describe Black Sherif’s inaugural Mozama Disco Concert which took place last night at La Palm Royal Beach Hotel.  The event space created interactive activations where patrons could have fun taking pictures, playing pool, video games, creating content on the couch, telephone booth and of course a 360-video experience.

The artist himself was engaging with people hours before showtime proving how down to earth he is, despite his recent global success. The ‘Kwaku the Traveller’ hitmaker, became a global sensation when his song was number one around the world thanks to social media. His new album, ‘The Villain I Never Was’ has also garnered him critical acclaim with fans touting him is one of music’s great storytellers. With his own sense of style, he’s known to support local creatives credits local designers for the multiple outfit changes during the show.

This concert was unlike others where fans are forced to wait until the end to see the headliner of the show. Blacko, as he’s known, performed multiple times through the night. He performed in short sets that were interchanged with performances by other artists including KiDi, Gyakie, Cina Souls, Wendy Shay and Lasmid.  He delivered high-energy performances that rocked the crowd and kept them wanting more. Each time he left the stage he came back with even more energy and vigour. The crowd went wild as fireworks blazed across the stage and Sakordie came out of nowhere to join Blacko in performing their latest hit, ‘Country Side’. He wasn’t slated as one of the artists to perform making it the biggest surprise of the night.

With all the events happening as part of the December in GH activities, this was perhaps one of the most organized and well executed concerts for an inaugural event. The artist, who brought his parents to the show, is said to have plans to do the Mozama Disco Concert every year.

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Story by: Ivy Prosper