The Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA), Maame Efua Houadjeto, has hosted a high-level delegation from Columbus, Ohio as part of efforts to strengthen cultural diplomacy, tourism promotion, and economic partnerships between Ghana and the United States.

The delegation, led by former Columbus, Ohio Mayor Michael B. Coleman, comprises civic leaders, philanthropists, business executives, and arts advocates committed to advancing cultural exchange and diaspora engagement.

The visit underscores Ghana’s growing reputation as a global hub for heritage tourism, cultural exchange, and creative industry collaboration.

Members of the visiting group include arts advocate Deidre Hamlar Stephens, real estate and housing development leader Charles Hillman, nonprofit executive Jatona “Toni” Cunningham, global branding strategist Sebastian Ibel, healthcare advocate and author Dr. Sharon Malone, philanthropists Keith B. Key and Donica Key, arts curator Rebecca McCabe Ibel, and corporate and philanthropic leader Janelle N. Coleman, among others.

According to the Ghana Tourism Authority, the visit forms part of broader efforts to strengthen Ghana’s engagement with the diaspora while positioning the country as a leading destination for heritage tourism, cultural collaboration, and investment.

Speaking on the significance of the visit, Maame Efua Houadjeto said the partnership presents an opportunity to deepen ties between Ghana and Columbus, Ohio through culture, creativity, and shared economic interests.

“This visit reflects the growing global interest in Ghana as a hub for culture, heritage, and creative exchange.

We are proud to welcome our partners from Columbus, Ohio and look forward to building long-term collaborations that benefit both our communities,” she said.

During their stay in Ghana, the delegation will participate in curated cultural experiences, heritage visits, and meetings with tourism stakeholders and creative industry leaders.

Source: myxyzonline.com

The Government of Ghana has officially granted citizenship to members of the African diaspora at a ceremony held in Accra, marking a significant step in the country’s efforts to reconnect with people of African descent around the world.

The new citizens took the oath of allegiance during the ceremony held in Accra on Monday, March 9, 2026, which formed part of Ghana’s broader initiative to strengthen historical, cultural, and economic ties with the diaspora.

Speaking at the event, Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang said the ceremony represents more than the formal granting of citizenship.

According to her, it symbolizes reconnection, healing, and the restoration of ties between Ghana and the descendants of Africans who were displaced centuries ago.

She noted that the government, under the leadership of President John Dramani Mahama, is leading international efforts at the United Nations to secure recognition of the Transatlantic Slave Trade as one of the greatest crimes against humanity.

The Vice President referenced historical sites such as Cape Coast Castle and Elmina Castle, which served as holding points for millions of Africans who were taken from the continent and forced across the Middle Passage to the Americas and the Caribbean.

She said that although the descendants of those who endured the Middle Passage have demonstrated resilience, creativity, and cultural brilliance over generations, it remains important to acknowledge the painful history that shaped their journey.

According to Prof. Opoku-Agyemang, the descendants of those who survived the Middle Passage remain connected as “branches of the same ancestral tree,” sharing a history that cannot be erased and a future that must be reclaimed together.

She also highlighted Ghana’s long-standing relationship with the diaspora, tracing it back to the vision of the country’s first president, Kwame Nkrumah.

She said Ghana’s independence in 1957 was intended not only to serve the country itself but also to advance freedom and opportunity for Africans and people of African descent worldwide.

The Vice President noted that the African diaspora continues to play a critical role in the development of the continent through remittances, investments, entrepreneurship, and philanthropy.

However, she stressed that Ghana seeks to deepen its relationship with the diaspora beyond economic contributions.

“We believe the relationship must be rooted in identity and a shared vision,” she said, adding that the government is strengthening diaspora engagement policies aimed at transforming historical connections into practical partnerships.

These efforts include creating pathways for diaspora investment, expanding opportunities for entrepreneurship, strengthening cultural exchange, and supporting diaspora participation in education, innovation, tourism, and national development.

Prof. Opoku-Agyemang encouraged the newly sworn-in citizens to embrace their new nationality with responsibility and commitment.

She said becoming citizens of Ghana means becoming active participants in the country’s development and contributing to a future built on dignity, opportunity, and shared prosperity.

The Vice President congratulated the new citizens and welcomed them home, describing the ceremony as part of Ghana’s broader commitment to reconnect Africa with its global diaspora and promote unity among people of African descent.

Source: myxyzonline.com