by Daron Pressley
October 15, 2024
The rich cultural ties between Ghana and Washington, D.C., were front and center as the 2024 DC Ghana Week kicked off on Monday, October 7, with a VIP welcome reception at the Smithsonian National Museum of African Art. This event marked the start of a week-long celebration that bridges the African diaspora with a vibrant showcase of Ghanaian art, food, culture, business, tourism, and sports.
In 2018, President Nana Akufo-Addo launched “The Year of Return” to encourage the African diaspora, particularly African Americans, to visit Ghana and reconnect with their ancestral roots. COVID-19 slowed the influx of visitors, but authorities soon launched Beyond the Return – a 10-year project under the theme, “A decade of African Renaissance – 2020-2030,” and is built on seven pillars. Experience Ghana, invest in Ghana, diaspora pathways to Ghana, celebrate Ghana, brand Ghana, give back to Ghana, and promote pan-African heritage and innovation.
Hosted by the Ghana Tourism Authority, LIQUID SOUL-DC, Events DC, and D.C. United, DC Ghana Week aimed to strengthen the bonds between Africa and the United States through cultural and economic events. The festivities culminated with the second annual “Capital City Africa Cup” on Sunday, October 13, featuring a historic soccer match between Major League Soccer’s D.C. United and Asante Kotoko, the 24-time champions of the Ghana Premier League.
Speaking about the event’s significance, Paxton Baker, Managing Partner of LIQUID SOUL-DC, emphasized the importance of sports and culture in uniting people across borders. “The Capital City Africa Cup is more than just a soccer match; it’s an opportunity to celebrate the cultural and historic ties between Ghana and the United States,” Baker said. “Through soccer, we can showcase the vibrancy and passion of Ghanaian culture to the world while also fostering a deeper sense of community among the African diaspora.”
A Celebration of Ghanaian Culture
DC Ghana Week is a cultural immersion into the heart of Ghana, allowing attendees to experience the country’s artistic heritage, culinary traditions, and entrepreneurial spirit. The week’s events highlighted African Restaurant Week, where local chefs and restaurants feature traditional Ghanaian and African-inspired dishes, providing a taste of Ghana’s rich culinary landscape.
In addition to the culinary offerings, DC Ghana Week promotes business and tourism opportunities in Ghana. Akwasi Agyeman, CEO of the Ghana Tourism Authority, expressed the importance of these cross-cultural exchanges: “Ghana has always been known for its warmth and hospitality, and events like DC Ghana Week allow us to invite the world to experience our culture while also showcasing the tremendous investment and tourism potential our country offers.”
Economic development and collaboration are key themes of the week, with opportunities for U.S.-Africa business partnerships on display. Angie Gates, President and CEO of Events DC, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the role events like these play in strengthening economic ties. “We are thrilled to be part of this important celebration that not only highlights the beauty of Ghanaian culture but also opens the door for meaningful partnerships between D.C. and Africa,” Gates said.
Ghana’s ambassador to the United States, Hajia Alima Mahama, reinforced the nation’s commitment to fostering business partnerships with the U.S. “We welcome all industries and businesses from the United States to explore opportunities in Ghana. We encourage African Americans to consider investment opportunities,” said Mahama.
Soccer as a Cultural Bridge
The highlight of DC Ghana Week was undoubtedly the Capital City Africa Cup, a friendly soccer match between D.C. United and Asante Kotoko at Audi Field. This match brought together two storied soccer clubs, uniting fans and showcasing the sport’s universal appeal. For Ghana, soccer has long been a cultural cornerstone, and Asante Kotoko’s participation in this event underscores the country’s rich footballing history.
Mark Addo, Vice President of the Ghana Football Association, noted the significance of this match as part of a larger effort to promote Ghanaian sports on a global stage. “Football is more than just a game; it’s a way of life in Ghana,” Addo said. We are excited to bring Asante Kotoko to Washington, D.C., to share our passion for the sport and further strengthen the bonds between our nations through this event.”
For D.C. United, participating in the Capital City Africa Cup is an opportunity to deepen the club’s connection to the global soccer community. Danita Johnson, President of Business Operations for D.C. United, said, “We are honored to play a part in this historic celebration of culture and sport. As one of the most diverse cities in the world, Washington, D.C., is the perfect stage for an event that highlights the cultural richness and shared values of Ghana and the United States.”
A Platform for Connection and Growth
DC Ghana Week is about more than just celebration—creating meaningful connections. From art exhibitions and business networking events to the energy of the Capital City Africa Cup, the week offers a platform for attendees to explore opportunities for economic growth, cultural exchange, and deeper understanding.
Baker underscored the week’s potential for fostering lasting partnerships. “The beauty of DC Ghana Week lies in its ability to unite people,” he said. “Whether you’re a soccer fan, an art enthusiast, or an entrepreneur, there’s something here for everyone. This is a celebration of our shared values, and it’s an exciting time to be part of the African diaspora in Washington, D.C.”
With the blend of culture, business, and sports, the DC Ghana Week event fosters greater understanding and connection between the African continent and the world.
In Akwasi Agyeman’s words, “DC Ghana Week is a testament to the enduring partnership between Ghana and Washington, D.C., and we are excited to showcase the best our country has to offer.”
