A GROUP of 250 individuals from the diaspora have arrived in Ghana to explore the country, reconnect with their heritage and immerse themselves in the Ghanaian culture and history.
The visit, organised by Afro Nyanka Tours in collaboration with Sankofa-Soul, is part of an effort to strengthen the bond between the diaspora and the African continent beyond traditional tourism.
Inspired by the Year of Return initiative, the 13-day tour which ends on Friday, March 14 will offer the visitors cultural experience through music, festivals, historical site visits, and cultural exchanges.
The group from the United States of America will explore the Greater Accra Region, where they will experience the city’s vibrant culture and historical landmarks.
They will also visit Eastern Region and finally end their tour in the Central Region, which is home to some of the most significant sites of the transatlantic slave trade.
Speaking about the visit, CEO of Afro-Nyanka Tours, Christopher Atogsiba Atanga, pointed out that the experience went beyond a typical vacation, offering a deep immersion into the country’s rich cultural heritage.
“We are not just taking them to tourist sites; we are immersing them in Ghana’s rich cultural experiences. Our goal is to help them understand Ghanaian history, African history, and their own roots”, he said.
For many of the participants, the journey was deeply personal and emotional.
One of the visitors, Jude Michelle, whose ancestry traces back to Dahomey, kingdom found in present-day Benin, described the experience as a pilgrimage rather than a vacation.
“I am here to come closer to my people, bring back my ancestors, and let them know that I am here. This is not just a trip—it is a homecoming.”
Recognising the country’s historical significance as the main exit point for captives during the transatlantic slave trade, Michelle sees the country as the natural entry point for reconnection and healing.